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Pratia angulata. Native ground cover

Pratia angulata, also known as Panakenake, is a native ground cover plant which grows as a low-growing, mat-forming perennial that thrives in a variety of conditions.

Appearance: It has small, rounded green leaves about 1-2 cm in diameter and produces masses of small white flowers from spring to autumn. These flowers are followed by red-purple berries in autumn

Growth: It typically grows to about 5-10 cm tall and can spread up to 2 meters wide. The creeping stems help it form a dense mat, making it ideal for ground cover.

Habitat: Pratia angulata is endemic to New Zealand and can be found in damp, sheltered areas up to 1,500 meters.
It prefers partial to full sun and well-draining soil.

Care: It’s relatively low-maintenance and hardy. Regular watering, especially during dry periods, and occasional trimming to control growth are recommended

Uses: This versatile plant is great for filling gaps between taller plants, adding color and texture to rock gardens, or creating a dense carpet of foliage in areas that receive full sun to partial shade.
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Plants for Rock Gardens and Walls

Creating a lush and vibrant retaining wall or stone wall in your garden can be both beautiful and functional. Here are some excellent plant choices, including native New Zealand plants, that thrive in these conditions:

1. Creeping Thyme (Thymus praecox)

Creeping Thyme is a low-growing perennial that forms a dense mat of tiny leaves, spreading quickly over and down retaining walls. It thrives in full sun and is easy to grow, making it a popular choice for adding a splash of color with its tiny flowers. Suits the northern part of New Zealand. We often have thyme for sale.

2. Trailing Lobelia (Lobelia erinus)

Known for its stunning display of tiny star-shaped flowers, Trailing Lobelia is perfect for covering retaining walls. It loves warmth and can be grown as an annual in cooler climates. A native form of lobelia ia available, it comes in various forms with white and blue flowers Pratia angulata. pānakenake

3. Prostrate Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus ‘Prostratus’)

This aromatic plant is ideal for Mediterranean-style gardens. It has dark-green leaves and soft-blue flowers that attract pollinators. Prostrate Rosemary thrives in well-drained soil and full sun and can often be seen hanging down retaining walls around Aucklands..

4. Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus)

Nasturtiums are easy to grow and produce a cascade of bold orange flowers from midsummer into fall. They are perfect for adding vibrant color to your garden walls.

5. Pohuehue (Muehlenbeckia complexa)

This native vine is perfect for covering walls with its dense, wiry stems and small, dark green leaves. It is hardy and can tolerate a range of conditions. It is a vigourous plant so in small gardens with a warm climate and fertile soil it needs pruning to maintain its size. Often used in coastal areas as a ground cover. Will trail down walls quite happily. Comes in a few different species and forms.

6. New Zealand Iris (Libertia ixioides)

This plant features striking yellow or white flowers and sword-like leaves. It is well-suited to rock gardens and retaining walls, adding both texture and color. Other attractive libertia are available including the orange coloured libertia perigrinans.

By incorporating these plants, you can transform your retaining or stone wall into a stunning garden feature that adds color, texture, and interest to your outdoor space. Happy gardening!


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Using Camellia Setsugekka as a Hedge.

Camellia sasanqua ‘Setsugekka’ is a popular choice for hedging due to its beautiful, large white flowers with ruffled petals and golden stamens. It wll create a dense formal hedge.

Planting and Growing Conditions

  • Location: Camellia Setsugekka thrives in semi-shaded to full sun locations. It prefers a spot that is sheltered from cold, dry winds to protect its buds and flowers.
  • Soil: This camellia variety prefers slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. Ensure the soil is well-drained to prevent root rot.
  • Watering: Regular watering is essential, especially during the first year after planting. Deep watering helps the roots establish well. During hot, dry periods, make sure the soil remains moist.

Care and Maintenance

  • Mulching: Mulch around the base of the plant with organic matter such as compost or sheep pellets. This helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  • Fertilizing: Use a balanced fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants in the spring and summer to promote healthy growth and flowering.
  • Pruning: Prune after flowering to maintain the desired shape and size. Remove any dead or damaged branches to keep the plant healthy.
  • Pest Control: Watch out for common pests like aphids and scale insects. Regular inspection and appropriate treatment can keep these pests at bay.

Benefits of Camellia Setsugekka as a Hedge

  • Aesthetic Appeal: The large, white flowers with golden stamens add a touch of elegance to any garden. The dense foliage provides year-round greenery.
  • Low Maintenance: Once established, Camellia Setsugekka requires minimal care, making it an excellent choice for busy gardeners.
  • Versatility: This camellia can be used as a formal hedge, a topiary subject, or even in mixed shrub borders for dramatic winter blooms.

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Exploring Camellia transnokoensis: A Rare Gem for Your Garden

Camellia transnokoensis

Camellia transnokoensis is a relatively rare and intriguing species within the Camellia genus, known for its distinctive characteristics and attractive features. Native to the subtropical regions of China,.

Characteristics and Appearance

Camellia transnokoensis is admired for its charming, small to medium-sized, semi-double flowers. The blooms typically range in color from delicate white to soft pink, often with a subtle fragrance that adds an extra layer of appeal to the garden. The foliage is glossy and dark green, providing a lush backdrop that highlights the flowers’ beauty.

One of the key features of Camellia transnokoensis is its relatively compact growth habit. This makes it an excellent choice for smaller gardens or as a feature plant in a larger landscape. It typically grows to about 2 to 3 meters in height, forming a dense, rounded shrub that is well-suited for hedging or as a specimen plant.

Cultivation and Care

Camellia transnokoensis thrives in well-drained, acidic soils enriched with organic matter. It prefers a sheltered location with partial shade, although it can tolerate some sun exposure. In New Zealand’s climate, it can adapt well to both coastal and inland conditions, provided it is protected from extreme temperatures and strong winds.

Regular watering is essential, especially during dry periods, to ensure the plant remains healthy and vibrant. Mulching around the base can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Pruning should be done after flowering to maintain the plant’s shape and encourage new growth.

Why Grow Camellia transnokoensis?

This species offers a unique addition to any garden with its relatively uncommon flowers and growth habit. It’s an ideal choice for those looking to diversify their camellia collection or add a touch of elegance to their garden. Its compact size makes it suitable for a variety of garden styles, from formal hedges to informal, naturalistic plantings.

In summary, Camellia transnokoensis is a fascinating and attractive choice for gardeners seeking something a bit different. With its delicate blooms, glossy foliage, and manageable size, it brings both beauty and interest to any garden space.

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Using Camellia Sasanqua as a Hedging Plant in New Zealand

Camellia sasanqua, a versatile and attractive plant, particularly as a hedging option. With its evergreen foliage and impressive blooms ranging from whites, pinks through to dark red, this species offers both aesthetic appeal and functional benefits as a boundary or privacy screen.

Why Choose Camellia Sasanqua?

Camellia sasanqua is well-suited to New Zealand’s varied climate, thriving in both coastal and inland areas. This plant is known for its adaptability, withstanding a range of soil types and conditions while maintaining its lush appearance. Its ability to grow in part shade makes it a valuable addition to gardens where full sun is limited.

Popular Varieties for Hedging

  1. Early Pearly: This variety stands out for its delicate, light pink flowers that appear in early spring. The profusion of blooms creates a soft, appealing look, ideal for a more subtle and refined hedge. The foliage is dense and glossy, providing excellent privacy and wind protection.
  2. Yuletide: Known for its vibrant red flowers and bright yellow stamens, Yuletide brings a festive touch to hedges, especially around the holiday season. This variety has a compact growth habit, making it suitable for formal hedges and smaller garden spaces. Its rich green leaves contrast beautifully with the striking blossoms.
  3. Setsugekka: Setsugekka, with its stunning pure white flowers, offers a classic and elegant look. The blooms are large and semi-double, providing a striking contrast against the dark green foliage. This variety is particularly valued for its long blooming period and the way it adds a touch of sophistication to any garden setting.
  4. Other popular varieites include Camellia Yuletide and Jennifer Susan

Planting and Maintenance

When planting Camellia sasanqua as a hedge, consider spacing plants about 1 to 1.5 meters apart to allow for their mature size. With regular pruning they can be maintained to a regular height. These camellias prefer well-drained soil enriched with organic matter and benefit from regular watering, especially during dry periods. Pruning is essential to maintain the desired shape and encourage dense growth. The best time to prune is after flowering, ensuring the plant has ample time to recover and produce new growth.

Camellia sasanqua is relatively low-maintenance, but regular checks for pests and diseases can help keep the plants healthy. Applying a balanced fertiliser in early spring can promote vigorous growth and abundant blooms.

Conclusion

Camellia sasanqua is an excellent choice for creating beautiful, functional hedges in New Zealand gardens. With varieties like Early Pearly, Yuletide, and Setsugekka, gardeners can select the perfect type to match their aesthetic preferences and garden conditions. Whether you’re aiming for a vibrant, festive hedge or a subtle, elegant border, Camellia sasanqua provides a long-lasting and visually appealing solution.

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Landscaping with New Zealand Groundcovers

Pratia angulata

Here is a list of native plants that can be used as ground cover plants in a kiwi garden.

1. Pratia angulata (White Star Creeper)

Description: A low-growing ground cover with small white star-shaped flowers.
Landscape Idea: Use Pratia angulata between stepping stones or as a lawn substitute in shady areas. It creates a soft, floral carpet that is visually appealing and easy to maintain.

2. Acaena inermis ‘Purpurea’

Description: A mat-forming ground cover with reddish-purple foliage and small burr-like fruits.
Landscape Idea: Plant Acaena inermis ‘Purpurea’ in rock gardens or along pathways for a striking contrast with green foliage plants.

3. Coprosma kirkii (Kirk’s Coprosma)

Description: A dense, prostrate shrub with small, glossy leaves that can form a thick mat.
Landscape Idea: Use Coprosma kirkii on slopes or embankments to reduce soil erosion while adding a lush, green cover.

4. Muehlenbeckia axillaris (Creeping Wire Vine)

Description: A vigorous ground cover with wiry stems and small, round leaves.
Landscape Idea: Perfect for cascading over walls, Muehlenbeckia axillaris can also be used to fill gaps in borders or as an underplanting for taller shrubs.

5. Leptinella dioica (Dioecious Leptinella)

Description: A small ground cover with fern-like leaves and tiny greenish flowers.
Landscape Idea: Ideal for planting in cracks and crevices of paved areas, Leptinella dioica can create a delicate, moss-like effect in your garden.

6. Scleranthus biflorus (New Zealand Moss)

Description: A cushion-forming ground cover with bright green, moss-like foliage.
Landscape Idea: Use Scleranthus biflorus in rock gardens or between pavers for a soft, textured ground cover that mimics the appearance of moss without the moisture requirements.

7. Selliera radicans (Remuremu)

Description: A low-growing ground cover with small, glossy leaves and tiny white flowers.
Landscape Idea: Plant Selliera radicans around ponds or in wet areas of your garden where it can thrive and create a lush, green mat.

8. Myosotis pansa (New Zealand Forget-Me-Not)

Description: A creeping ground cover with small, blue flowers reminiscent of the traditional forget-me-not.
Landscape Idea: Use Myosotis pansa in shaded garden beds or woodland gardens for a charming, floral ground cover that adds a touch of color in spring.

Landscape Design Tips:

  • Combining Textures: Mix different ground covers to create a varied texture and color palette. For example, combine the fine texture of Pratia angulata with the bold foliage of Acaena inermis ‘Purpurea’.
  • Layering: Use ground covers as the lowest layer in a multi-tiered garden bed. Plant taller perennials and shrubs behind them to create depth and interest.
  • Edging: Plant ground covers along garden borders or pathways to define spaces and provide a neat, finished look.
  • Erosion Control: Use ground covers on slopes and embankments to prevent soil erosion while adding greenery.
  • Paving Filler: Plant ground covers between stepping stones or pavers to soften hardscape elements and create a natural, cohesive look.

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Myosotidium hortensia: An Exotic Beauty

Mysotidium hortensia

Myosotidium hortensia, commonly known as the Chatham Island Forget-me-Not, is a stunning perennial plant native to the Chatham Islands of New Zealand. This plant is admired for its large, glossy leaves and striking blue flowers. It thrives in coastal environments, making it a perfect addition to a tropical garden in New Zealand. Incorporating Myosotidium hortensia into a tropical garden can create a lush, exotic feel. Its large, waxy leaves provide a striking contrast to other tropical plants, and its bright blue flowers add a splash of color. Pair it with ferns, hostas, and other shade-loving plants to enhance the tropical ambiance.

Cultivating Myosotidium hortensia

To grow Myosotidium hortensia successfully, consider the following tips:

  • Location: Plant in a shady or semi-shady spot to protect it from harsh sunlight.
  • Soil: Ensure well-drained, rich soil to prevent waterlogging.
  • Watering: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during the growing season.
  • Protection: Shelter the plant from strong winds and extreme temperatures.

Benefits of Myosotidium hortensia

  • Aesthetic Appeal: The plant’s unique appearance makes it a focal point in any garden.
  • Native Plant: Being native to New Zealand, it supports local biodiversity and is well-adapted to the climate.
  • Low Maintenance: With proper care, Myosotidium hortensia is relatively low maintenance, making it suitable for gardeners of all levels.

Myosotidium hortensia is an excellent choice for a New Zealand tropical garden. Its stunning foliage and vibrant flowers add a touch of the exotic, while its native origins make it a hardy and sustainable option. With the right care and conditions, this beautiful plant can thrive and bring a unique charm to your garden.

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The Use of Hebes in New Zealand Gardens

Hebe Icing Sugar

Hebes, with their diverse forms and vibrant blooms, have secured a special place in the heart of New Zealand gardeners. From adding splashes of color to providing structure and biodiversity, hebes can be used in different ways to enhance a garden setting.

Known for their resilience and adaptability, hebes thrive in a variety of conditions, making them suitable for gardens across New Zealand’s diverse climates. They range in size from compact whipcord hebes with fine foliage to larger specimens such as Hebe speciosa, offering options for everything from small urban gardens to expansive rural landscapes.

One of the standout features of hebes is their floral display. Their blooms come in a spectrum of colors, including whites, pinks, purples, and blues, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. Beyond their flowers, hebes are valued for their foliage diversity, which includes glossy greens, silvers, and variegated patterns, providing year-round interest.

Innovative gardeners in New Zealand have embraced hebes for their adaptability and beauty, finding creative ways to integrate them into garden designs:

  1. Mixed Borders: Incorporate hebes into mixed borders to add structure and seasonal interest. Combine them with ornamental grasses such as Carex and other shrubs to create a dynamic and textured garden bed. Varieties like Hebe ‘Wiri Mist’ (compact with silver-gray foliage), Hebe ‘MacEwanii’, Hebe lewisii or Hebe venustula work well in mixed borders.
  2. Coastal Plantings: Many hebes are salt-tolerant, making them ideal for gardens near the coast. Their ability to withstand harsh winds and salt spray while maintaining lush foliage and blooms makes them invaluable in coastal landscapes. Consider Hebe ‘Snowdrift ‘ for coastal gardens.
  3. Container Gardening: Utilize dwarf or compact hebe varieties in containers on patios, balconies, or in courtyards. Their tidy growth habits and colorful foliage or flowers can brighten up small outdoor spaces. Try Hebe ‘Red Edge’ (green leaves with red margins) for container gardening.
  4. Rock Gardens: Plant low-growing hebes in rock gardens to provide ground cover and add bursts of color among stones and gravel. Their compact forms and ability to thrive in rocky, well-drained soils make them ideal choices for alpine or Mediterranean-inspired landscapes. Varieties like Hebe decumbens ‘Prostrata‘ (low-growing with green foliage) or Hebe ‘Emerald Gem’ (small leaves with white flowers) are suitable for rock gardens.

Whether enhancing coastal gardens, adding color to mixed borders, or providing structure in containers, these native shrubs contribute to the diverse tapestry of New Zealand landscapes. Embrace the possibilities of hebes in your garden and discover how they can transform outdoor spaces into vibrant, dynamic environments year-round.

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Coprosmas: The Versatile Gems of New Zealand Gardens

Coprosma Middlemore

In the vibrant tapestry of New Zealand gardens, few plants bring as much versatility and charm as Coprosmas. These native evergreens, known for their diverse foliage and hardy nature, have become increasingly popular among gardeners looking to add both aesthetic appeal and practicality to their outdoor spaces.

Coprosmas, belonging to the Rubiaceae family, are native to New Zealand and nearby islands. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, making them a versatile choice for landscaping. From compact shrubs to sprawling ground covers, Coprosmas offer options suitable for almost any garden style or size.

Coprosma TaikoOne of the most remarkable features of Coprosmas is their foliage diversity. Their leaves range from small and delicate to large and leathery, and they can be found in shades spanning from deep greens to vibrant yellows, oranges, reds, and purples. This rich color palette allows gardeners to create striking contrasts and harmonies within their landscapes.

Innovative gardeners in New Zealand have found numerous creative uses for Coprosmas beyond traditional borders and hedges. Here are a few innovative ways to incorporate these versatile plants into your garden:

  1. Feature Foliage: Use Coprosmas with striking leaf colors, such as vibrant reds or purples, as focal points in garden beds or containers. Varieties like Coprosmas repens ‘Pacific Night’ (deep purple foliage) or C. ‘Tequila Sunrise’ (yellow and green variegated leaves) can provide year-round interest and require minimal maintenance once established.
  2. Mixed Borders: Combine different Coprosma varieties with plants of contrasting textures and forms to create visually dynamic mixed borders. Pairing them with grasses, flowering perennials, or native plants can enhance their beauty while promoting biodiversity. Consider using C. acerosa ‘Hawera’ (compact, bronze foliage) or C. ‘Fireburst’ (green leaves with red margins) for striking contrasts.
  3. Ground Covers: Low-growing Coprosmas, like C. repens ‘Poor Knights’, can be used effectively as ground covers to suppress weeds and add splashes of color to otherwise bare areas. Their dense foliage also helps to stabilize soil on slopes.
  4. Container Gardening: Due to their compact size and tolerance for container cultivation, Coprosmas make excellent choices for patios, balconies, or rooftop gardens. Experiment with different varieties like C. repens ‘Pink Splendor’ (pink and green foliage) or C. ‘Evening Glow’ (red and green variegated leaves) to create striking potted arrangements.
  5. Coastal Gardens: Many Coprosmas are salt-tolerant, making them ideal choices for gardens near the coast. Their ability to withstand wind and salt spray while maintaining vibrant foliage makes them a practical and visually appealing option. Consider C. repens ‘Pacific Sunset’ (yellow-green leaves with orange margins) or C. acerosa ‘Karo Red’ (compact, red-bronze foliage) for coastal gardens.
  6. Topiary and Hedging: Some Coprosmas, especially the more compact varieties, lend themselves well to shaping. Use them for formal hedging or create whimsical topiary shapes to add structure and interest to garden spaces. Varieties such as C. repens ‘Taupata Gold’ (golden-yellow foliage) or C. ‘Lemon and Lime’ (green and yellow variegated leaves) are excellent choices for topiary and hedging.

In conclusion, Coprosmas offer New Zealand gardeners a wealth of possibilities for creating stunning and resilient landscapes. Whether used for their striking foliage, practical benefits, or creative potential, these native plants continue to inspire innovative garden designs across the country.

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Mulching a Vegetable Garden in Winter

Garden Mulching

As winter approaches in New Zealand and if there are areas in your garden you are not growing winter veges in, its’s a good time to enrich your garden for the coming spring. One effective method is using layered mulch, which insulates the soil, prevents erosion, and enhances fertility. Here’s a guide on how to winterise your vegetable garden with layered mulch.

Step 1: Clean Up the Garden

Begin by removing any spent plants, weeds, and debris from your garden beds. This helps prevent pests and diseases from overwintering and gives you a clean slate for mulching. Some of this material can become part of your mulch.

Step 2: Prepare the Soil

Lightly till the soil to break up any compacted areas.

Step 3: Lay Down the First Layer – Newspaper or Cardboard

Start with a layer of newspaper or cardboard. This base layer helps suppress weeds and retains moisture. Ensure the materials overlap to create a solid barrier and water them thoroughly to hold them in place.

Step 4: Add Organic Material – Leaves and Grass Clippings

Next, add a layer of organic materials like shredded leaves, grass clippings, or straw. These materials break down over time, adding nutrients to the soil. Aim for a layer about 5-10 cm thick.

Step 5: Cover with Mulch

Top this with a layer of mulch. Wood chips, bark, or straw work well. This final layer insulates the soil, protecting it from temperature fluctuations and further suppressing weeds. A thickness of about 5-10 cm is ideal.

Step 6: Water the Layers

Water each layer as you add it to help the materials settle and start the decomposition process. This also ensures the mulch stays in place and provides consistent moisture to the soil below.

Step 7: Monitor and Maintain

Throughout winter, periodically check your mulch layers. Add more mulch if it begins to thin out due to decomposition or weather conditions. Keeping a thick layer will continue to protect and nourish your soil.

Benefits of Layered Mulch

  • Soil Insulation: Mulch layers keep the soil temperature stable, protecting roots from frost.
  • Moisture Retention: Mulch helps the soil retain moisture, reducing the need for frequent watering.
  • Weed Suppression: A thick mulch layer prevents weed growth, reducing competition for nutrients.
  • Soil Enrichment: As organic materials decompose, they add vital nutrients to the soil, improving its structure and fertility.

By following these steps to winterise your vegetable garden with layered mulch, you’ll ensure a healthier, more productive garden when spring arrives in New Zealand.