However, maybe now is the time to re-think designs and types and consider switching to a drought tolerant, native Australian garden.

On Sunday, February 23 the Pacific Palms Markets will host a free hands-on gardening workshop.

The key to success lies in knowing how to remove weeds and keep them at bay, giving new native plants the space they need to thrive.

Weed removal is complex and unfortunately there is no one removal technique that is suitable for all species.

However, by choosing the right removal technique and making weed removal part of your gardening routine, you can reduce the amount of seed in the ground.

Reducing the seed bank will lessen your long term work load and create space for the plants you love.

The workshop will help you identify problem weeds and show you effective techniques to remove them.

Catch-up:

To get involved, just turn up early at the markets and sign up for one of the sessions, which kick off at 10am and 11.30am.

Come prepared with covered shoes so that you can participate.

The team at MidCoast Council is working with Pacific Palms residents as part of the Backyard Bushcare program to reduce weeds in local gardens.

The Backyard Bushcare program is a three year project supported by the NSW Government through its Environmental Trust, which encourages local communities to work together to remove weeds from their own backyards, and help protect the natural bushland that surrounds their town.

If you live in the Pacific Palms and want to do your bit to protect your beautiful part of the world, visit the MidCoast Council Backyard Bushcare site where you will find lots of helpful resources on how to turn your backyard into a native garden and wildlife haven.

If you live elsewhere in the Mid Coast region there's no reason why you can't check your own garden for the weeds on the 'most wanted' list.

Check out the Backyard Bushcare web page for lots of helpful hints.

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