Articles

Landscape Design

Right Plant, Right Place: The Key to Successful Landscape Design

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 […]

Best Plants for Slopes

Best Plants for Slopes in New Zealand

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 […]

Plants That Support Local Wildlife

How to Choose Plants That Support Local Wildlife

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 […]

Better John

Thriving Roadside Plants in New Zealand- Navigating Tough Growing Conditions

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 […]

Plant a Hedge in New Zealand

How to Plant a Hedge in New Zealand

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 […]

Attract Native NZ Birds to Your Garden

How to Attract Native NZ Birds to Your Garden

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 […]

Low-Growing Plants nz

Best Low-Growing Plants for Along Pathway Borders and Paved Areas

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 […]