I love this octopus chandelier but I would spray paint it pink. Just so much more FAB

Hi. Great spot! When we had an acreage first thing I did was to start closest to the house with easy water able stuff so that there is something there to look at from your windows that gives you impetus to go further. However, you could also figure out where you want to be walking to and your views and needs (big veggie patch, orchard etc) and begin by setting out pathways leading there. Always taking account of that run off issue too. Once those are in, you can get your trees ( for shade as you walk) and any other plants you want or make beds or ponds etc - perhaps your paths could make a loop that takes you back to the house? Also think about watering needs and access to irrigation points. ahh am I ever envious - but too old now!

There is no problem at all with waterproofing a landscaped roof so long as you don't 'cut corners'. The problem arises if there are not adequate standards set for the supply of the product and the installation of the product. With the use of superior water proof membranes and installation by specialists there is no issue at all. This sort of roof is used all around the world.

Well, the yard is full of cacti and succulents... And it's new. The only things with flowers now are the euphorbia milii, so no especial attractant. Being a newish build (just less than 12 months since we moved in) there are many more established and flowery gardens within stone's throw. I really would hope there's nothing attractive on the bricks - it can't be the colour, as the garden walls are entirely different to the house, and built at a different time, (recently). There are other houses around with these bricks, but no sleeping bees! Lol. I hope the fairies at the bottom of the garden didn't spray sugar spray on the walls! I have no desire to plant large trees on my suburban block. I've put in a pomegranate which is still a small sapling, about a 60cm stick with no flowers. I've put in a Yucca, but it hasn't even a stem, yet, let alone flowers. That's why I'm stumped. The street trees are ornamental pear, however none are in flower, and we don't even have ours yet. A few blocks away they have the dreaded plane trees - beautiful, but deadly for my allergies. There are a few reserves, so I wish the trees would hurry and get big there so the birds have somewhere. They love builder's left over lunches, but there's not much shelter here. I'll try the thyme, but they like those flowers, too. I dunno! (Throws hands in air...) Wondering now, if it's because the bricks are heavily textured and they can grip well?