Articles

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 […]

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 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 […]

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 […]