Giving Your Native Plants the Best Start

Healthy, well-established plants begin with good preparation and ongoing care. While New Zealand native plants are naturally hardy, a little attention during their first year will help ensure they establish quickly and thrive for years to come.

Before You Plant

Good preparation is the key to success.

Before planting:

• Remove grass and competing weeds.
• Loosen compacted soil if required.
• Ensure the planting area has adequate drainage.
• Water plants before planting if they appear dry.

Taking the time to prepare your site will greatly improve plant survival and growth.

Planting

When planting your natives:

• Dig a hole approximately twice as wide as the root ball.
• Plant at the same depth as the plant was growing in its container.
• Backfill with soil and gently firm around the roots.
• Water thoroughly after planting.

Avoid burying the stem or planting too deeply.

Watering

Most native plants require regular watering while they establish.

As a general guide:

• Water thoroughly after planting.
• Water regularly during dry periods throughout the first summer.
• Once established, many native species require little additional watering.

Deep, occasional watering is usually better than frequent light watering.

Weed Control

Weeds compete with young plants for moisture, nutrients and sunlight.

Keeping a weed-free area around each plant during the first one to two years will significantly improve growth and survival.

Mulch can also help suppress weeds and retain soil moisture.

Fertiliser

Most New Zealand native plants perform well without heavy fertiliser applications.

If required, apply a slow-release fertiliser suitable for native plants according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

Avoid over-fertilising, as excessive nutrients can encourage weak growth.

Protecting Young Plants

In exposed areas, consider using:

• Plant guards to protect against rabbits, hares and browsing animals.
• Stakes where additional support is required.
• Mulch to conserve moisture and reduce weed growth.

Protection is especially important for restoration and rural planting projects.

Ongoing Care

During the first two years:

• Monitor plants regularly.
• Replace any losses promptly.
• Continue weed control.
• Water during extended dry periods.
• Check plant guards and stakes as required.

Once established, most native plants require very little maintenance.

Need Advice?

Every site is different.

Whether you're planting a backyard garden, a shelterbelt, a riparian margin or a large restoration project, our experienced team is happy to recommend the best species and provide practical advice to help your plants succeed.