Time to plant trees

The field team have completed their planning for the up and coming planting season. First the days and areas are decided, and then which plants we want to put in each of the areas aligned to the relevant reserve planting plans. This year we are planting in our ‘totara dunes’ at Tavora, North Otago, creating new breeding habitat for yeps at Okia on the Otago Peninsula, and creating wind breaks and shelter at our newest reserve at Long Point, South Otago.

Every year we plant our revegetation favourites like broadleaf, Coprosma propinqua, and Pittosporum species, and enhance existing bush or more sheltered sites with species like wineberry and narrow-leaved mahoe. As these plants get established, we start to add some of the interest trees that would be found in the area but in lesser numbers, for example kahikatea, or Olearia fragrantissima, the fragrant flowering tree daisy.

We also grow plants that are suitable for attracting lizards. These species, which include Coprosma tayloriae and totara, are planted into our habitats as part of our restoration work. But they are also grown for other individuals and groups who want to bring lizards back into their areas.

Plants from our nursery also go to projects for birds, bees or beautification of public spaces. Some requests can be very specific; for example we have been asked for plants that don’t drop leaves or flowers! This may sound odd, but plants that have insect-pollinated flowers might attract flies that could lead to an increase in fly strike in young albatross chicks at Taiaroa Head.

It can be quite challenging to find the perfect plant for each situation, but native plants are so diverse that we generally come up with a solution. We really enjoy the challenges of different projects; it gives us an excuse to learn about other restoration projects in the Otago area.

If you watch the attached slide show you will be able to see some of the species we grow. They are expertly held by our fantastic volunteers who helped grow them.

If you know anyone who would be interested in plants, feel free to contact us. And don’t forget to come along to our community planting days.

Anita
Nursery Manager