From extensive dunelands, fertile lowland plains, rugged inland valleys to subalpine zones – this region sees a 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.
Trees That Count is seeing increased interest in native regeneration of cutover pine and marginal farmland in the region, along with enthusiasm for native planting by smaller landowners.
Choosing the right trees
Commonly used coloniser tree species for the region:
Tī kōuka (Cordyline australis)
Kānuka (Kunzea ericoides)
Mānuka (Leptospemum scoparium)
Karamū (Coprosma robusta)
Kōhūhū (Pittosporum tenuifolium)
Tarata (Pittosporum eugenioides)
Koromiko (Hebe stricta)
Mānatu (Plagianthus regius)
Houhere (Hoheria sextylosa)
It can take a few seasons to learn what works well. Every site is unique, and every season will be different, so be prepared for experiential learning too!
Sourcing your trees
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 local nurseries who can help with eco-sourced plants:
Palmerston North:
Totara Glen Nursery Kauri Park Nursery
Manawatū Native Plant Nursery
Levin:
Coastal Growers
Woodville:
Coppermine Nursery
These nurseries may also stock plants from outside your region so you will need to ask specifically about their eco-sourced stock appropriate to your location.
Preparing your site for planting
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.
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; fencing and stakes; and labour for planting.
Handy resources
If you’d like to review further information, the following guides might be useful to you:
Reach out to us
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