Plan A becomes Plan B

Oh, how plans love to change! Steve and I originally had this grand idea to plant popular oaks to help
break the wind and shield our shiny new propagation house from that relentless Canterbury
nor’wester and the harsh western sun. All was going well—earthworks done, smiles all
around—until our lovely contractor piped up: “Knowing you, you’ll want a nice garden bed here, so
I’ve shaped the edge for you.”

Well, there goes Plan A, and hello Plan B! After a good laugh and a bit of head-scratching, we
decided to roll with it. This is where a good wander around the property comes in handy—checking
what’s thriving where and figuring out what plants might work in this super exposed spot.
In front of the propagation house, we’re now creating a native garden with sun-loving red
rhododendrons like Kaponga. For some reason, red rhododendrons really pop when paired with
New Zealand native plantings, something I’ve noticed during my travels around the country. To keep
things interesting and colourful all year round, we’re adding a mixed border of black Taffeta
Heucheras—tough little plants with striking deep purple leaves—and some larger red-leafed bushes
for extra drama.

The focus is all about foliage, with a variety of flaxes taking centre stage. Mulching has been a
lifesaver—it locks in precious moisture, keeps those roots happy, and ties the whole area together
beautifully. Here are some before and after snaps of the transformation. I’ll keep you posted on how
it’s coming along, but I have to say, Plan B is shaping up to be pretty fantastic!