How to Grow NZ Natives Guide

Native plants have been here for a long time and there is a huge number of varieties available to suit any sized garden, in any region. The challenge is to select those that will thrive in your own garden and climate and create the effect you want to achieve. 

Conservation & Biodiversity

It is worth remembering that out of our 2,000+ native species, between 10 and 15% are threatened with extinction. Even a small garden with 10 to 15 native plants can be a habitat for some of our endangered species.

Native plants also help increase the biodiversity in your garden by creating a safe habitat for native wildlife such as insects (native bees, butterflies, moths etc), birds and reptiles etc.

Climate

It is important to understand your local climate, particularly temperature and rainfall, which can impact your garden e.g., drought, frost, wind, humidity etc, and influence what plants you choose.

There can be problems in successfully growing particular species of natives if they are grown outside their typical growing regions, or in soils unlike their natural habitat. Therefore, it is wise to select plants that have comparable conditions to your own region, e.g climate, soil etc.

Soil and Site Considerations

New Zealand soils are often heavy clay, however there are also sandy, coastal soils and rocky, gravelly alpine soil types. Determine the type of soil you have in your garden before you begin – your local garden centre can help with this.

Clay soils are considered “heavy”, so it is essential they are “opened up” to allow drainage and air movement throughout the soil. To do this, apply Daltons Clay Breaker and Soil Conditioner to help break up the clay and improve the soil drainage. When planting, add Daltons Garden Time Compost and mix well with existing soil.

Sandy soils are “light,” drain easily and will require you to add organic material such as compost to help retain water and minerals. Due to low nutrient levels in very sandy soil some extra fertiliser such as Daltons Premium Tree and Shrub Fertiliser may be required.

Note: some native species prefer sandy/coastal soils so check the variety you are growing.

Wind

The direction and velocity of prevailing winds in your garden should also be considered as this will influence your initial species selection and the density of planting where "shelter belts" may be required.

Remember that native plants have adapted to various sites and soil types over many years, so take advantage of this when choosing individual species.