Why Deciduous Azaleas?

Close-up of a cluster of vibrant red and pink flowers in bloom, set against a blurred garden background. These beautiful blossoms exemplify ideal azalea care, showcasing the stunning potential of flowering shrubs like Deciduous Azaleas.

Discover the Beauty of Deciduous Azaleas in New Zealand Gardens As we move through July, it’s the perfect time to highlight one of the most enchanting and versatile plants you can introduce to your garden: the Deciduous Azalea. These vibrant azaleas not only provide a spectacular display of colours but are also perfectly suited to…

Read More

What Are the Best Companion Plants for Rhododendrons?

A garden scene featuring blooming white hydrangeas and various green shrubs under sunlight.

People often ask me what plants I put with Rhododendrons.  As rhododendrons are such shallow-rooted plants, the following work well as companion plantings. Here’s a quick list of my favourites: hellebores, hydrangeas, lilies, dahlias, hostas, Chatham Island lilies, and trilliums. These plants thrive in a mix of hot and shady spots, and I also love…

Read More

Planning that next gardening project

Three photos of garden landscapes, featuring young trees, shrubs, and a hose on green grass in a well-maintained outdoor space, perfect for showcasing your gardening project.

July is the perfect time to start planning your next gardening venture. Here’s our tried-and-true method for preparing new flower beds: Steve and I often get inspiration from other people’s gardens and browsing Pinterest. Once I gather ideas, I have to persuade Steve that another garden bed is necessary. We head outside with a hose…

Read More

Why Do Rhododendron Leaves Droop in Winter?

A close-up of Rhododendron leaves dusted with snow, drooping gracefully against a clear blue sky.

Rhododendrons exhibit a fascinating adaptation to cope with cold conditions. As temperatures drop, rhododendron leaves curl and hang down, creating a protective layer that reduces moisture loss. This behaviour eases the strain on the roots, which would otherwise struggle to extract moisture from frozen soil. Additionally, when snow falls, it interacts uniquely with rhododendron foliage.…

Read More

Transplanting Rhododendrons: 

A person wearing work boots and grey pants with blue stripes is planting a small bush in soil using a shovel, marking a productive day of gardening. A black planting pot is placed nearby, indicating the rhododendrons are ready for transplanting.

When and How to Do It Rhododendrons are popular evergreen shrubs known for their vibrant colours that can enhance any garden during spring.  However, to ensure their continuous growth and beauty, these shrubs may need to be transplanted or moved from time to time.  Many customers have inquired about the best time and proper technique…

Read More

Rooting for Success: Our Rhododendron Propagation Adventure

Top left: Red leaves on a wooden surface. Top right: Two people working in dense greenery to ensure rhododendron propagation. Bottom: Hands using pruning shears on green leaves for successful cultivation.

I am thrilled to share that we have just finished propagating our rhododendron cuttings! During February and March, we’ve been incredibly fortunate to collect cuttings from a variety of beautiful gardens across Canterbury, including several old varieties that haven’t been propagated commercially for quite some time. With over 600 different varieties now coming through, our…

Read More