Planning your native garden
Planting New Zealand natives is one of the best ways to create a beautiful, low-maintenance landscape that supports local biodiversity. But if you’re just getting started, it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed.
You might be asking yourself:
- Which native plants grow best in Central Otago?
- How do I choose the right native plants for my property?
- What should I know about my site before choosing plants?
- Which native plants are best for screening and shelter?
- Which native plants add colour to a native garden?
This guide will help answer these questions and get you thinking about the key factors that influence which plants will thrive on your property.
How do I choose the right native plants for my property?
The best place to start isn’t by choosing plants, it’s by understanding your property.
Before selecting plants, think about:
- Is your property north or south facing?
- Does it receive full sun or shade?
- Is it exposed to strong winds?
- Is your soil dry, free-draining or boggy?
- Are there areas prone to frost?
- Do you want screening, shelter, colour or to attract native birds?
Knowing the answers to these questions will make it much easier to choose plants that will thrive.
Which native plants grow best in Central Otago?
The answer depends on where you live. Growing conditions vary surprisingly across the region. A property in Albert Town may have very different soils, frost levels and exposure compared with Hāwea or central Wanaka.
Choosing plants suited to your local conditions is one of the best ways to create a healthy, long-lasting native landscape.
How can I find inspiration for my native garden?
One of the easiest ways is to look around your neighbourhood.
Notice which native plants are thriving and take note of:
- Plants that provide good screening or shelter.
- Flowering natives that catch your eye.
- Plant combinations you like.
If you see something you like, take a photo or ask your neighbour what it is. If it’s growing well nearby, there’s a good chance it will also perform well on your property.
Which native plants are best for screening and shelter?
Some of our most popular choices include:
Looking to add colour? Native favourites such as Kōwhai, Kākābeak, Hebe and Rātā produce beautiful flowers while attracting birds and pollinators.
You can learn more about these and many other species in our Native Plant Library.
Where can I get advice on choosing native plants?
You don’t need to have every detail worked out before getting in touch. If you’ve thought about your site’s conditions and what you’d like to achieve, you’re already off to a great start.
The team at Matukituki Natives can recommend the best eco-sourced native plants for your property, whether you’re landscaping a new home, planting a lifestyle block or planning a larger revegetation project.
For more information, explore other articles in our Advice section.