Author: elissaastorino

  • Evergreen Infrastructure

    This week, I had the opportunity to meet with Michael Casey and Stella Hinrichsen from Evergreen Infrastructure to explore the fascinating world of green walls and green roofs. It was incredible to hear about the design and maintenance process of these stunning examples of green infrastructure. I was introduced to various systems used for green…

  • Semken Landscaping

    Over the past two months with Semken Landscaping, I’ve worked on a wide range of residential and commercial landscapes around Melbourne. During this time, I’ve noticed some interesting similarities in plant choices between Melbourne and back home in Ontario, as both regions share a temperate climate. Melbourne’s milder winters and drier summers, however, allow for…

  • AIH Annual Conference

    I had the pleasure of attending the Australian Institute of Horticultures Annual Conference, a fantastic opportunity to learn and connect with industry professionals from across Australia. The conference featured engaging talks covering topics like designing cool, shaded park areas, fostering community engagement through planting, the role of native bees, and much more. A huge thank…

  • Classic Bellingen Town Garden

    As part of an @aust_institute_of_horticulture garden tour, I visited a private garden in Bellingen. The garden, known as the Classic Bellingen Town Garden, was designed by Claudia Nevell of @gardenexpressions , who won the AIH Green Space Residential Award for this outstanding design. This garden features a central lawn with an outstanding Frangipani, a stone fountain from France and…

  • Professional Leadership Award

    I am honoured to be chosen as the recipient for the Professional Leadership Award from the Master Gardeners of Niagara. “This award is to honor a graduating 3rd-year student at the Niagara Parks School of Horticulture who has demonstrated exceptional leadership in community minded initiatives through their actions and influence. Awarded to a student who…

  • Ornamental Horticulture Diploma

    I’m proud to announce that I’ve officially graduated from the Niagara Parks School of Horticulture with Honours—one of only six institutions worldwide of its kind, and one of only two set within a botanical garden environment. I extend my deepest thanks to the instructors, administration, and alumni for their unwavering support, dedication, and guidance over…

  • The Landscaping Podcast

    Check out this episode on The Landscaping Podcast where Joel Barnett and I talk about my experience at the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show and my journey back to Australia to work with Yards Pty. Ltd. and Semken Landscaping Pty Ltd . I really enjoyed this conversation with Joel and I hope you do…

  • September Club

    Last week, I had the pleasure of working on the outdoor spaces for the AFL and Toyota Australia‘s exclusive ‘September Club’ at the MCG. The stunning planting display themed ‘Urban Wild,’ was beautifully designed by VividDesigns , blending nature with modern urban elements. The project came together through the exceptional teamwork of Vivid Designs ,…

  • Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria – Melbourne

    I had the pleasure of visiting the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria – Melbourne, where I was impressed by the diverse range of gardens on display. Some of the plants were familiar from home in Canada, while others were completely new. One highlight was The Ian Potter Foundation Children’s Garden, an incredible space designed for children…

  • HortInsights Magazine Spring 2024

    The spring edition of HortInsight, the journal by the Australian Institute of Horticulture , is now out! In this issue, I share insights from my 3-month work placement with Yards Pty. Ltd. and reflect on the valuable lessons I’ve learned during my time there. A big thank you to Alan Burnell , Dianne Wallyn ,…