Planting time

After the ground is cleared of all the invasive species and we are sure that the ground is ready for planting we carefully select the correct plants for placement across the varied conditions found on the gully floor. Plants that are suited to a wet environment are placed near to the gully stream and any wetter areas. Plants better suited to dryer conditions are planted a little further up the sides of the gully.

Every plant has a stake with the top painted a colour to identify the various species. All plants are tied to the stake for protection and support.

As the summer days approach and the days are warmer the weed growth accelerates and weed releasing becomes the focus. To offer some degree of weed suppression carpet squares are placed around the base of each plant.

Multiple native plant species are planted across the gully. These include Kahikatea, Rimu, Miro, Totara, Matai, Pukatea, Putaputaweta, Manuka, Lacebark, Swamp Maire, Cabbage Tree, Kanuka, Ribbonwood, Koromiko, Coprosma and Carex Secta. We will often plant into a group the same plant species which forms a future grove and would simulate how the same specie of plants grow well together. Examples are Kahikatea, Rimu, Totara and Wineberry.