What is MERRYSTEMS anyway?

The name of the company sprung out of a little botanical word play celebrating growth. A meristematic cell is a specialised plant cell that can continually divide to produce new cells found in growing regions of the plant. These cells provide the building blocks for new growth, allowing plants to develop from the shoot tip and the roots.

Merry Stems is a Tasmanian gardening business built on a passion for creating healthy outdoor spaces that enrich the lives of all its inhabitants (big and small).

I combine horticultural training with careful, hands-on garden maintenance. Rather than applying the same approach to every property, I work with each landscape individually. I consider existing vegetation, local ecology, soil health, seasonal changes, microclimate and the historical style of the home to provide tailored garden care that enhances both the property and its surrounding environment.

I have a particular appreciation for Tasmania’s unique native flora and strive to work with nature rather than against it. Whenever possible, I use environmentally responsible practices, encourage biodiversity, improve soil health, and minimise unnecessary waste.

Who am “I”?

Thats me^! My name is Lily.

I am a horticulturist/aspiring botanist currently pursuing accreditation in Horticulture Cert III at TAFE and a double degree in Plant Science/Geography at UTAS.

This combination of practical horticultural training and scientific study allows me to approach gardens with both hands-on knowledge and an understanding of the natural systems they’re part of.

I’ve had the amazing opportunity to meet and work with great conservationists and horticulturalists around Hobart who have helped immensely in my learning journey. Through them, I have seen how a close relationship with nature enriches the soul.

My passion is to create gardens that support and increase native biodiversity. I believe our gardens can be more than beautiful spaces by strengthening the natural ecosystems around us.

That being said, I’m also passionate about history, architecture and the character of established gardens. I particularly enjoy working with heritage properties, where the garden is part of the story of the place. I aim to create and restore gardens in a way that respects their original character and architectural style, while thoughtfully managing species that are harmful to our lovely island.

Thanks so much for reading!