About Susa's Gardening Sanctuary
Creation of Susa’s Gardening Sanctuary
Susa’s Gardening Sanctuary is the result of meticulous planning and unwavering dedication. From its inception, every aspect of the sanctuary was carefully designed and cultivated. The journey of developing this vibrant garden space has spanned over twelve years, reflecting a long-term commitment to nurturing a thriving, beautiful environment. This garden stands as a testament to perseverance and passion for gardening, offering a space that celebrates both the beauty and productivity of nature.
My Gardening Story
I started gardening when I was quite young inspired by my grandparents whose dedication to cultivating, displaying, and judging roses and dahlias left a lasting impression on me. My parents further nurtured this interest by designing vibrant gardens full of flowers and edible plants around our home. With such a rich family tradition behind me, it’s easy to see that my passion for gardening springs from my childhood environment.
Nature has always fascinated me. Growing up in the UK I spent a lot of time outdoors, particularly hiking and exploring the plants and wildlife.
When I arrived in Australia, I was enthralled by the colourful native wildflowers of Western Australia. It inspired me to enrol in a wildflower course at TAFE, which turned out to be deeply rewarding. My experience encouraged me to take horticulture and landscape classes, expanding my understanding and further igniting my passion for gardening.
My professional path took a significant turn when I transitioned from working in hospitality to joining a garden centre. This opportunity became a stepping stone, eventually leading me into a fulfilling career in landscape gardening.
About Sue Crosse
Sue Crosse is a passionate landscape gardener based in Darlington and Glen Forrest in Western Australia. With a strong focus on sustainable gardening, Sue helps people reconnect with nature through practical gardening advice, workshops, consultations, and community projects. Her work spans from rehabilitating natural bushland to helping home gardeners grow productive, beautiful spaces.
My Aim
My name is Sue Crosse, and I am a landscape gardener educator passionate about sustainable gardening and helping people connect with nature. I teach students at a school and connect them to growing food and supporting the environment by planting local species as well as looking after the school gardens.
I offer garden consuls showing how even the smallest spaces can be productive beautiful and environmentally friendly. My approach is to work with you and your lifestyle to create spaces that engage the senses while remaining easy to care for.
I conduct gardening workshops at Susa’s Gardening Sanctuary my aim is to educate you and inspire a sustainable living. My approach is practical and hands on experience for all levels of gardeners.
The workshops are interactive and emphasise practical learning, whether participants are engaging with the soil to planting seeds or planning their garden designs. I focus on providing actionable tips to help build confidence and success in your own garden.
I engage with festivals, events, libraries, and community organizations, where I facilitate a range of workshops for both children and adults.
My Support
I raise funds by opening my gardening to support charities and garden communities for a small donation. My aim is to support my fundraising organisation Dementia Australia.
Open Gardens WA has had a big influence over my garden I have opened on two occasions where all proceeds go to charities.
I volunteer for OGWA I am a garden selector for the Perth Hills. Currently I am working on the Tiny Gardens as designer and project manager for Perth Garden Show.
My garden has captured lots of celebrities. One very exciting day was when ABC Gardening Australia filmed my garden. Josh Byrne and his team curated a wonderful experience for Susa’s Gardening Sanctuary.
I have also had the pleasure of Costa Georgiadis form Gardening Australia as host and special guest accompanying a coach as part of the Edible Garden Trail which was an initiative of Kalamunda Garden Festival.
I worked with Sophie Thomson from ABC Gardening Australia running workshops at the Guilford Garden Festival facilitated by OPGWA. She also visited my garden during this time, and we spent some time discussing our passion for gardening.