There are many reasons for the development of new approaches to creating gardens. Although the use of wildflowers was first proposed in the 19th century, there have been many recent developments in the use of native and near-native plants to create beautiful and sustainable gardens, both private and public. Prairie gardens, ‘new wave’ perennial plantings, wildflower lawns and meadows, gravel gardens – each requires different approaches and techniques and has a dramatically different impact. We will look at all these styles, at ways of adapting them to suit this climate, and at how they can help you reduce maintenance, water use and cost.