The Otago-Southland area is vast and its extensive range of ecosystems make for interesting challenges around plant restoration. From mountainous alpine beech forest, high country shrublands, dryland areas of Central Otago and the coastal forests of the Catlins and Otago, the region is dynamic and varied. Its major rivers, wide dune lands and estuaries are also significant features of the region.

There is wide variance in climate, soil and land use. Many planting projects in the region take place in a rural context and there is a strong riparian focus on private land. There is increased interest in farmer led catchment management across Otago and Southland and Trees That Count is keen to partner in this important aspect of environmental management. There is also significant urban and rural enthusiasm for native planting by smaller landowners and community groups.

Commonly used coloniser tree species for the region:

• Tī Kōuka (Cordyline australis)

• Kānuka (Kunzea ericoides)

• Tōtara (Podocarpus totara)

• Kōhūhū (Pittosporum tenuifolium)

• Tarata (Pittosporum eugenioides)

• Koromiko (Hebe stricta)

• Mānatu (Plagianthus regius)

• Houhere (Houheria sextylosa)

The vast scale and regional differences in climate, altitude and position means that what works for one area may be quite different for another.

Contact local nurseries at least a year ahead of planting, even if just to express your interest, so you can assess their stocks and species selection. Trees That Count supports eco-sourcing: plants should be grown from seeds collected from naturally occurring vegetation close to where they are to be planted. Not only does this help maintain your area’s natural uniqueness, but the plants will be suited to local conditions and more likely to survive.

Here’s a list of a few local nurseries who can help with eco-sourced plants:

These nurseries may also stock plants from outside your region, so you’ll need to ask specifically about their eco-sourced stock appropriate to your location.

All sites are different. Some may require several years of weed control prior to planting and others may only need a pre-plant spot spray or spot clearance with hand tools.

There’s plenty of expertise on hand to help you deal with weeds before and after planting. The following resources may be particularly useful when planning:

Pest control is also an issue across all regions. Take a look at PredatorFree’s excellent resources.

Your nursery may be able to help with soil advice, if needed. Also think about mulch and weed mats; rabbit guards, fencing and stakes; and labour for planting.

If you’d like to review further information, the following guides might be useful to you:

Email: [email protected]