Articles

Do you want to select plants that make your life easier, instead of harder? Whether you’re a landscape architect looking for a few low-maintenance plants to add to your palette, or you’re a home gardener who’s never designed a garden in their life, this article was written for you. We’ll start by learning a few […]

Have you been considering planting Viburnum but are unsure whether it’s a good choice for supporting New Zealand’s native wildlife, including but not limited to pollinators? With its lush foliage, clusters of flowers, and colourful berries, Viburnum might surprise you with how much it offers to your garden’s ecosystem, even though it isn’t a native. […]

Are you wondering whether or not to buy a Westringia, but first you’d like to know if it’s good for wildlife like native NZ pollinators? Westringia, often called coastal rosemary, is gaining popularity among gardeners in New Zealand for its hardiness, beauty, and low-maintenance nature. A staple of Australian native gardens, it’s known for its […]

Looking to liven up your garden with something vibrant and wildlife-friendly? Meet Callistemon, commonly known as the bottlebrush. With its dramatic, brush-like flowers and hardy disposition, this Australian native is becoming increasingly popular with gardeners in New Zealand. But is it a good choice for supporting local wildlife, particularly pollinators? Let’s take a closer look […]

Is your viburnum hedge struggling with poor growth and yellowing leaves? Sap-sucking pests like aphids, whiteflies, mealybugs, and scale could be to blame. These insects weaken plants by feeding on sap, disrupting vascular processes and sometimes spreading diseases. Don’t worry – by using Integrated Pest Management (IPM), you can tackle these pests while supporting a […]

Driveway hedges offer a unique blend of practicality and beauty, serving as effective barriers while enhancing the overall appeal of a property. Thoughtfully designed by landscape architects, these green screens act as natural fences, seamlessly integrating into the surrounding landscape. Layering short and tall plants is a great way to create interest through contrasting colours […]

Australian flax (Dianella) and New Zealand flax (Phormium) are two plant genera within the Asphodelaceae family, often mistaken for each other due to their similar common names and ornamental use in landscapes. However, while they share many characteristics, they also possess distinct differences that make each unique. 1. Little Jess™ Dianella caerulea ‘DCMP01’. 2. Sweet Mist™ Phormium tenax ‘PHOS2’ […]

Are you struggling with pests or diseases in the garden, and looking for alternatives to using potentially harmful pesticides as a first resort? Surely, there must be a better way to control pests naturally. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) stands as a holistic approach to controlling pest populations, striving to minimise environmental impact while ensuring sustainable […]

Are you struggling to find hardy shrubs that can resist drought and require minimal upkeep in New Zealand’s unique climate? Whether you’re chasing a small shrub to line borders, or you’re after a taller screen, this article was created to help you find the perfect plant that won’t need babysitting. These resilient plants not only […]

Are you looking for the best plants for a shady spot in your garden? Do you even know how much sunlight the position receives, or what the difference between “part shade” and “moderate shade” is? Trying to choose a plant for a shady position can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry! This article was designed to […]

Are you struggling to create a thriving garden that balances beauty and sustainability? In this article, you’ll learn how the “right plant right place” principle can transform your landscape into a flourishing and low-maintenance haven. We’ll break this age-old fundamental piece of advice into two parts: site parameters (restrictions) and plant functions (desirable characteristics). By […]

Gardening on slopes poses unique challenges, such as soil erosion, poor water retention, nutrient loss, and difficulty in root anchorage. These issues arise due to gravity pulling soil downhill, increased wind exposure, rapid water runoff, and exposure to harsh weather conditions. To overcome these challenges, selecting the right plants is crucial for creating a stable […]

Why Garden Vignettes Matter Have you ever felt the magic of a charming nook in a garden? These delightful scenes, known as garden vignettes, are small, curated spaces that pack a punch in terms of visual appeal and emotional impact. A garden vignette is a small, curated arrangement within a garden that draws the eye […]

Ever wondered how you can transform the toughest spots in your garden into thriving havens of plant life? Welcome to an exploration of micro climates, a game-changer for New Zealand gardeners and landscape designers struggling to grow in harsh conditions. This article will guide you through the concept of micro climates, distinct areas with specific […]

Creating a thriving garden in New Zealand requires thoughtful planning and an understanding of the unique environmental conditions. Whether you’re a home gardener or a professional landscape designer, selecting the right plants is key for achieving a beautiful and sustainable garden. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose plants that will flourish in your […]

Creating a garden that supports local wildlife is not only beneficial for the environment but also incredibly rewarding. By choosing the right plants, you can make a significant difference in your local ecosystem, providing essential resources for insects, birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. Here’s how to select plants that will transform your garden into a […]

Roadside verges in New Zealand present a unique set of challenges for plant growth. From pollution and soil compaction to limited maintenance budgets, these conditions require plants that are exceptionally hardy and resilient. In this article, we’ll explore why roadsides are tough growing environments and the essential characteristics plants must possess to thrive in such […]

Planting a hedge is a fantastic way to enhance your garden’s aesthetic appeal, provide privacy, define borders, screen line of sight and sounds, or create a windbreak in an urban landscape. Whether you’re aiming for amenity, topiary, border definition, or screening, this guide will walk you through the essential steps to successfully plant a hedge […]

How to Attract Native NZ Birds to Your Garden: A Practical Guide for Gardeners and Landscape Designers Attracting native birds to your garden is not only a delightful way to connect with nature but also beneficial for maintaining the ecological balance. If you’re a New Zealand gardener or landscape designer keen to welcome more feathered […]

Have you ever wondered how to enhance the beauty and functionality of your pathed areas with plants? Have you considered lining pathway borders with low-growing varieties that provide structure and clarity within your garden’s design? Integrating vegetation around pathways not only adds aesthetic value but also improves environmental benefits. However, choosing the right plants can […]

Sunlight can vary significantly throughout a landscape due to factors such as the position of trees, buildings, and other structures that cast shadows at different times of the day. Additionally, the angle and intensity of sunlight change with the seasons, making certain areas of the garden receive more or less light depending on the time […]

Erosion control is a critical aspect of landscape management, particularly in areas prone to soil degradation and instability. The strategic use of plants can play an invaluable role in not only beautifying the environment but also in fortifying the soil against erosion. By selecting appropriate plant species, such as those with extensive fibrous root systems, […]

Introduction Are you tired of spending countless hours maintaining your garden, only to see plants struggle or fail? Perhaps you’re specifying plants in a design and wish to save money for yourself or a client on the long-term maintenance of that garden. In this article, we’ll explore the most low-fuss, functional, and reliable plants that […]

Did you now that the presence of surfaces like glass, metal, rocks, and concrete can significantly affect the horticultural conditions by reflecting heat? Plants near heat-reflective surfaces need to be tolerant of heat heat and drought to thrive in such harsh conditions. This article will briefly explain how reflective surfaces affect plant health and provide […]

Introduction Have you ever wondered how to achieve a harmonious and visually impactful garden with minimal maintenance? In this article, we’ll delve into the concept of mass planting, exploring its definition and providing expert advice on designing effective mass planting schemes. Whether you are an experienced home gardener, landscape architect, designer, or a council decision-maker, […]

Introduction For landscape architects and designers working on playground projects, selecting safe plants is paramount. Some plants have toxic parts, spikes that can cause injury, and flowers that attract European honeybees which can easily sting children playing. This guide outlines key considerations for choosing plants that ensure children can play safely, and provides a selection […]

Have you ever marvelled at the vibrant colours of a bottlebrush plant and wondered what it takes to bring such beauty to your own garden? The bottlebrush plant, with its distinctive, brush-like flowers, is a favourite among NZ gardeners for adding a splash of colour to landscapes. However, achieving that enviable vibrance requires an understanding […]

Mulching plays a pivotal role in landscape planting, significantly enhancing both the health and aesthetics of mass planting landscapes. However, it’s crucial to choose the right type, and apply it correctly to avoid the risk of failure and potential environmental harm. This guide explores the various types of mulches, their purposes, and the importance of […]

Are you struggling to find shrubs and hedges that can withstand flooding and wet conditions in your New Zealand garden? Choosing resilient plants can save a fortune in constructing landscape drainage, or even worse, replacing established plants that die one year when the flooding is a bit more extreme than usual. Understanding Flood-Tolerant Plants Flood-tolerant […]

Are you facing challenges in discovering shrubs and hedges that can endure dry spells in your New Zealand garden? Opting for hardy plants can lead to significant savings in irrigation setups, or worse, replacing mature plants that succumb to severe drought conditions unexpectedly. Top Drought-Tolerant Plant Options in New Zealand The plant selections below have […]

Are you looking to add vibrant foliage and a hedge effect with a natural shape to your garden landscape in New Zealand? In this guide, we’ll explore two Nandina varieties that excel in the unique climates of NZ, providing valuable insights for experienced home gardeners, landscape architects, and professional landscapers. Choosing the Right Nandina Variety […]

Are you in need of a swift solution for creating hedges that marry practicality with beauty? Let’s explore the potential of Dense Fence™ Viburnum odoratissimum as a rapid-growing dense hedge option for gardens in New Zealand. Introducing Dense Fence™ Viburnum odoratissimum Dense Fence Viburnum is ideal for creating privacy screens. It stands out from the common form […]

Introduction Have you ever wondered how to make your small garden space in New Zealand look larger and more inviting without a complete overhaul? The right plant palette can do wonders for creating the illusion of a larger space. This article delves into the art of using specific plant selections to enhance the perception of […]

Introduction Are you looking for a way to add colour to your NZ garden? In this article, we’ll discuss some of the best flowering azaleas that will fit the bill nicely, with spectacular blooms for much of the year, including during autumn. Choosing the Right Azaleas for Your Garden Azalea Varieties Suited to New Zealand’s […]

Are you looking for some seasonal colour, and a ground cover or border plant that thrives in just about any conditions you throw it into? New Zealand’s varied climates can be tricky for some exotic plants to thrive in. There are two liriopes that truly stand out for their resilience and beauty under the challenging […]

5 Coastal Plants to Use in NZ Landscapes: Thriving Amidst the Salt and Breeze Introduction Coastal gardens in New Zealand pose a unique set of challenges for landscaping enthusiasts. The combination of salty breezes, sandy soil, and strong winds can be harsh on many plants. However, with the right selection, it’s possible to create a […]

I. Introduction Ever wondered how to transform your front yard into a lush, low-maintenance landscape? The secret may lie in selecting the right ground covers, which are much more exciting than boring, old mulch. Ground-covering plants offer a wealth of benefits, from enhancing aesthetic appeal to improving soil health. This article will provide practical tips […]

Introduction Welcome to our exploration of a plant genus that has captivated many garden enthusiasts and landscape professionals alike – Westringia. This article aims to delve into the world of Westringia, its unique characteristics, and whether it’s a good fit for New Zealand’s gardens and landscapes. About Westringia Origin and Distribution Westringia is a genus […]

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on growing Callistemon, or the bottlebrush plant, in New Zealand. This article is designed for experienced home gardeners, landscape architects, council decision-makers, and professional landscape experts looking to diversify their plant selection. We will delve into the unique characteristics of the Callistemon genus, and discuss its suitability for different New […]

Grevilleas, native to Australia, offer an exotic appeal and unique beauty to New Zealand gardens. In this article, we delve into the intriguing world of grevilleas, their characteristics, nutritional needs, and how breeding has made it possible for them to thrive in New Zealand. We aim to provide valuable information for experienced home gardeners, landscape […]

Introduction Among the myriad of Australian flora that carry an exotic allure, the callistemon, also known as the bottlebrush plant, stands out with its distinctive fuzzy flowers. This guide aims to provide a detailed understanding of callistemons, their ability to withstand New Zealand conditions, and their care requirements. With its tall, columnar growth habit and […]

Ever wondered how some gardens manage to maintain their vibrant allure throughout the year? The answer could lie in the strategic use of perennial plants. This comprehensive guide will provide an understanding of perennial plants, their numerous benefits, and a highlight of popular perennial plants in New Zealand. We’ll also share tips on cultivating these […]

Are you in search of plants that can thrive with minimal care, yet add a touch of greenery and beauty to your garden or landscape? Whether you’re a seasoned home gardener or a professional landscape expert, low maintenance plants can be a game-changer. They save time, require less effort, and are often more resilient to […]

Climbing plants, as their name suggests, are plants that naturally grow upwards, using different structures such as walls, fences, trellises, and trees for support. Characterised by their flexible stems and tendrils, these plants have a unique ability to add vertical interest to both indoor and outdoor spaces. Understanding Climbing Plants Climbing plants adopt a unique […]

Are you an avid gardener or landscaping professional looking to breathe life into a NZ garden with a vibrant, living hedge? Perhaps you’re seeking privacy, wind protection, border definition, visual lines, or simply the aesthetic charm that only a lush green barrier can provide. If so, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, […]

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on outdoor pot plants. This blog post is dedicated to exploring the world of outdoor pot plants, a versatile and exciting area of gardening that can transform both home gardens and professional landscapes. Outdoor pot plants aren’t just about bringing greenery to your patio or balcony, they offer a myriad […]

Ever wondered about the vast world of plants and their intricate relationships with our ecosystem and well-being? This comprehensive guide will dive deep into the fascinating kingdom of plants, exploring their types, ecology, and impact on our health and wellness. The Four Types of Plants From the humble mosses in your backyard to the shrubs […]

Introduction to Pot Plants in New Zealand New Zealand’s unique climate and diverse flora have made it a haven for potted plants. Whether you’re an experienced home gardener, landscape architect, council decision-maker, or professional landscape expert, this article will provide you with comprehensive insights into pot plants in New Zealand. Learn about choosing the right […]

Are you a professional landscaper looking to source the best materials for your next project? Or perhaps you’re an experienced home gardener keen on improving the aesthetics of your outdoor space? Maybe you’re a council decision-maker seeking sustainable, high-quality landscape supplies? If so, you’ve come to the right place. Securing quality landscape supplies is crucial […]

Landscape design is an artful discipline that combines nature and culture, creating stunning outdoor spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional. It’s a vital part of home improvement in New Zealand, offering homeowners the opportunity to transform their outdoor environment into a sanctuary that reflects their personal style and complements the architectural […]

Crafting DIY Hanging Planters Creating your own hanging planters provides an easy opportunity to express your creativity. Traditional macramé holders with ceramic pots are always charming, but don’t shy away from more innovative ideas. For instance, you could upcycle old birdcages, ladders, or even colanders into unique hanging planters. Integrating Hanging Plants into Landscape Design […]

Are you seeking flowering hedges that not only enhance the beauty of your garden but also support biodiversity? New Zealand is home to a plethora of flowering hedge plants, each uniquely suited to diverse climates and soil types. Choosing the Right Flowering Hedge Plants Selecting the right plants can significantly impact the overall aesthetic and […]

Are you looking to add structure and beauty to your garden? Small hedges might be the perfect solution! Small hedges not only add aesthetic appeal but also provide a practical function such as creating privacy or marking boundaries. They’re easy to maintain and can be used in a number of different ways. Understanding Small Hedges: […]

Ever wondered how to transform your garden into a personal paradise? Interested in creating an epic landscape that will leave your neighbours green with envy? In this article, we will explore the art of garden landscaping, uncovering its principles, and sharing some creative ideas for your own garden. Get ready to dig deep into the […]

Are you interested in ground covers for your garden landscape? In this article, we’ll discuss why your garden needs ground covers, why you need them, and what some of the best groundcovering plants are that will thrive throughout New Zealand. Understanding Ground Cover Plants Ground cover plants are low-growing plants that spread across the ground, […]

Are you looking to buy plants in New Zealand? If so, you’ve come to the right place. This article is your guide to choosing the best nursery, finding the perfect plants to suit your needs, and discovering the best places to buy them in NZ. Whether you’re an experienced home gardener or a professional landscape […]

The incorrect use of mulch in landscape plantings is causing many mass planting landscapes to fail, and is inflicting major environmental damage, by spreading disease and weed problems. Unknown to many, there are two major categories of mulch. Ground cover mulch, used to cover the ground generally at 50mm to 100mm thick, and soil conditioner […]

Learn how to make your own vertical garden with water wise plants such as Lomandra TANIKA™, Dianella LITTLE JESS™ and Dianella BLUE TWIST™ (Referred to as Utopia in Australia and in this video). Watch this video…

(information based on Australian research, products and results may differ in New Zealand) By Todd Layt I have contacted various companies and asked for information regarding new and old favourite chemicals, fertilisers, wetting agents and other lawn and garden consumables. Interestingly, there seems to be a real growth in combination products, such as fertiliser-chemical combos, […]

Most gardeners are familiar with the need to fertilise but significant confusion exists with regard to which product to use and when. The requirement for fertiliser will vary with your soil type and condition, and with the type of plants being grown. In general plants which are being pruned (hedges or lawns) or harvested (vegetables […]

Shara™ Lomandra longifolia subsp. exilis ‘ABU7’ PVR continues to prove its toughness and versatility. As you might already know our primary focus here at Ozbreed is breeding and research, aiming to produce the toughest and most tolerate plants on the market. We carry out many trials and tests prior to plants becoming available and even continue to test […]

Meet Ozbreed’s New Star – Evergreen Baby™ Lomandra. In multiple Australian trials, Evergreen Baby™ Lomandra longifolia subsp. exilis ‘LM600’ PVR has been at the top of landscape performance, with a low height that meets most modern-day line of site parameters. The Evergreen Baby™ plant is unique. It is the only low growing Lomandra that has shown in replicated trials to better withstand all these […]

Summary Guide to Successful planting of Bio-retention swales and basins: Here we have a more in depth and detailed look at green life for bio-rentention swales and basins. In recent years the lack of space for wetlands to clean water prior to outflow to stormwater, and the increase in hard surfaces, has seen the use […]