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 […]

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 […]

4 plants with shade and sun tolerance: Buffer plants

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 […]

Functional and Reliable Landscape Plants

Most Low-Fuss, Functional and Reliable Landscape Plants

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 […]

Mass Planting Best Plants

Mass Planting: Best Plants for Specimen Beds, and How to Design Them

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, […]

Safe Playgrounds Safe Plant Choices

Designing Safe Playgrounds: Safe Plant Choices

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 […]

Dense Fence

Fast-Growing Hedge for NZ: Dense Fence Viburnum

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 […]

Coastal Plants NZ

5 Coastal Plants to Use in NZ Landscapes

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 […]