Save verges, naturally

CASEY Council will look at some drought-resistant plants to help rejuvenate parched nature strips.
Councillor Janet Halsall stepped up at a council meeting last month, saying it was time to remind people that it was not just grass that had to be planted on nature strips.
Cr Halsall said that over the break she had walked around Casey and noticed just how dry the nature strips were.
“There are other ways to beautify nature strips,” she said. “Many residents’ attitude is that they can only plant grass seeds.
“But there are many non-invasive and low-growing plants that can be used.”
Nature strips are controlled by council but must be maintained by residents.
Cr Halsall said there was a huge range of plants that required a minimal amount of watering.
She said it was important the research was done now before the April to June planting season.
“It is time we beautified Casey’s nature strips of the future,” she said.
Council officers will now produce information on alternative planting options by the end of April for residents to access.