Yes, rake the needles (and gravel) onto the path, before improving the soil, and periodically during the off-season for the flowering plants. They tend to restrict growth and do not add to the appearance of the foliage or flowers, don't you agree? Not sure what does well in your area, but here's a list to take to your garden center that might brighten your day, and cover the ground. Cotoneaster dammeri, Juniperus conferta 'Blue Pacific", Euonymus fortunei 'Coloratus", Asperula odorata, Dianthus gratianopolitanus "Bath's Pink", Adiantum pedatum, Ophiopogon japonicus, Parthenocissus tricuspidata or quinquefolia (I forget which one climbs up the trees, but get the other one), Most of the above will do well in any pH soil, so don't be afraid to sweeten it, if advised to locally. I would not plant all these together, but you have plenty of room to match up good companions in each area. Some, like the junipers like a little more sun to make you smile. That should get you started in covering the ground. The local folks will be eager to sweeten the list, I am sure. Enjoy the process. Involve your family and friends. Nobody does it alone.

Thanks Susan, Much appreciated. I captured the name of the plant and then can not see rest of email- must have something to do with my Houzz settings? But the hint re pinch off top for bushing out came too. Thank you for responding, Naomi

Homes don't have to be made low maintenance - regular cleaning keeps a home maintenance free. Cleaning as you go or regular dusting and vacuuming keeps housework minimal so nothing is a huge effort. Squeegee the shower after use for minimum cleaning for example. If you don't have a place to store everything, then maybe look at just what you are trying to store and how much you really need. I can't visualise "hidden" areas that accumulate junk, maybe they should become storage areas so necessary "junk" can be stored neatly. Weeds can be kept to a minimum in gardens with mulching, which is also good for water retention, most trees need regular pruning and drop leaves and twigs regardless of whether they are evergreen or not so they aren't exactly non-maintenance, sure there are a lot of plants that need little watering if one is short on water, but that is good for the environment too. Specific plots for vegetables is a sound investment or flowering plants just to pretty up the garden are not a lot of work and if water is readily available a sprinkler system can take the drudge out of that. The garden is good therapy for reducing stress and if approached that way can only benefit our lives.

The Lilly pilly's are the best for quick growing. The ones often marketed as 'Neighbour be gone' are terrific. Also a wonderful tree that can be trimmed to your requirement of height. It would be best to buy an advanced tree. Put you back maybe $50 or so but very worth while.