Keen to spruce up the backyard or give that old planter a new lease on life? With Darwin’s tropical climate, you’re spoilt for choice to DIY and update your outdoor space. Here are some top-notch suggestions to DIY your backyard and keep your home space looking the goods.

DIY: Concrete Paver Planters 

Why splash out on shop-bought pots that don’t suit your style when you can make something yourself that’s just as good? Grab some leftover concrete or stone pavers for this easy-as project from Better Homes and Gardens. 

Materials: 

• 1 x Paver for the base (can be any size needed, concrete or other stone block)
• Landscaping block adhesive
• 4 x Pavers for the sides (size can vary for desired shape etc, also concrete or other stone of choice)

Directions:
1. Check that you have the right size pavers and that you have enough necessary. 
2. Once you choose the size of your desired planter, use the adhesive to attach pavers by running a thin bead of the adhesive along the edges and pressing together firmly. Leave the sides to set for 24 hours before the next step.
3. Once it has been 24 hours, glue your base paver to the bottom using the same adhesive, however using a dotting technique rather than a line. This allows for gaps on the base so that excess water can drain through the base.
4. Allow the adhesive to dry completely (will be at least 24 hours), then add your soil and favourite plant of choice. Enjoy!

Planting Natives to Brighten Your Backyard

• Heliconias: These beauties come from Central and South America but they go off in the rich soil here in Darwin. Keep the soil moist at the base and stick them in a spot with a bit of shade. Here is the NT Gov guide to growing Heliconias at home.
• Birds of Paradise (Strelitzia): Bet you’ve seen these around the traps. They love our sticky weather and a smidge of shade, and they’re well and truly easy to care for. They are low maintenance, requiring daily water but no pruning beyond the removal of dead/damaged leaves and stalks. Perfect for adding a splash of colour to any spot in the yard. Here is a guide to planting and growing Birds of Paradise at home.

DIY Herb Garden 

Keen on a herb garden? Check out these Bunnings-approved herbs that thrive in our climate:

• Basil
• Chives
• Lemongrass
• Mint
• Murraya Curry Plant

Herbs are an excellent choice for beginners and a fantastic way to get kids involved in gardening. They simply need a sunny spot, regular watering, and occasional shelter if the weather turns.

Happy DIY-ing, and don’t forget to share your before and after shots with us, we can’t wait to see what you come up with!