Why go with native species? It’s simple science: native trees are the right fit for NZ, and they’re specifically suited to our conditions. They help to support our amazing native birds, lizards and invertebrates—which is a win for any backyard garden.
The first port of call
Get to know the good folks at your local native nursery. Eco-sourcing plants from your local area so that they’re suited to the particular climate of your region is essential. Local nursery staff will be able to suggest particular species that might work for that tricky corner of your garden, or might thrive where other options have failed.
A splash of…
Whether it’s colour or texture you’re after, native trees can deliver. Challenge the assumption that because many native trees are evergreen rather than deciduous, that they don’t change at all with the seasons or add beauty and variety for your garden. Try the stunning purple ake ake (Dodonea viscosa) for a feature hedge; an endangered ngutukākā (Clianthus puniceus) for its incredible red beak-shaped flowers; or a classic karamū (Coprosma robusta) for a pop of orange berry. Or add native grasses and ferns for contrasting textures.
Size matters
If you’re seriously short on space, there are a number of native options for foliage that can brighten a smaller area, living quite happily in a tub or planter with adequate watering and drainage. Kāpuka (Griselinia littoralis) or Hebe stricta you’ve probably heard of, but other shrubs like mingimingi (Coprosma propinqua), taupata (Coprosma repens), or thick-leaved māhoe (Melicytus crassifolius) will also gladly populate your balcony or small section in good sized pots.
Feathered friends
If you’re interested in attracting native birds to your garden, native trees are a must. To keep birds like tūī, pīwakawaka and tauhou keen all year round, think about a range of food sources (nectar, berries, flowers and foliage) for their different needs, as well as considering the different times at which the plants fruit and bloom. Our friends at the Department of Conservation have a handy calendar for this purpose here. It’s also responsible to think about how you might control predators in your backyard to help keep the native birds safe: Predator Free NZ can help you get started.
Fringe benefits
One of the greatest delights of planting native trees is getting up close and personal with their unique uses. With the proper care, plants like kawakawa (Macropiper excelsum) can flourish into a real asset for your medicine cabinet as well as your backyard. Make kawakawa tea by brewing the leaves, use the berries in salads or homemade chutney, or even make a foot spa or soak with the leaves.
Keen to know more?
Find your local native nursery and read up on regional advice for planting native trees at treesthatcount.co.nz/resources—or if you’re not ready to get planting, join the good folks at Tommy’s in donating native trees for local restoration projects with Trees That Count.
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