Get your hands on free native plants

MOORABOOL Shire Council has announced it will give away four native plants per household between Wednesday 30 April and Tuesday 6 May.

Residents can choose between one of four plant packs, which include pre-selected native tube stock, species ID cards and care instructions.

Options include groundcovers, grasses, small flowering plants and small shrubs, as well as grasses, medium shrubs and flowers.

Further alternatives include large shrubs, small trees and large trees.

Native plants are well-adapted to the Moorabool region climate and soil conditions, requiring less water and maintenance than exotic species.

They provide vital habitat and food sources for local wildlife, including birds, bees, and butterflies. Planting indigenous species is also thought to be a simple yet impactful way to help preserve the local natural ecosystem.

Moorabool Shire mayor Cr Paul Tatchell said the incentive provides a great opportunity for residents to participate in conservation efforts and learn more about sustainable landscaping practices.

“Our environment team has been running (the) native plant giveaway for the past few years and it’s extremely popular and well-received by the community,” he said.

“I encourage (locals) to get involved in this great initiative which will help gardens and the broader environment.”

Registrations close at 5pm on Wednesday 23 April and can be made via the Moorabool Shire Council website.

As part of the sign-up, residents will be required to select a pick-up day and time to collect their plants from the Ballan Council Office, where ID with a Moorabool Shire address must be presented.