Why Choose Local Indigenous Plants?

Indigenous plants have adapted to our local conditions over thousands of years and are suited to the soil, rainfall and local regions.

 

Planting indigenous plants helps to maintain the biodiversity of the region by helping to maintain the complex interdependences between plants and animals.

 

Native plants:

  • attract birds, butterflies and frogs to your garden by providing seed, berries, perching sites and protection;
  • restore wildlife corridors, linking parks, habitat areas, remnant vegetation and flight zones;
  • require less maintenance, less pesticide and less fertilizer;
  • salinity management
  • create wetlands for frogs
  • can be used in large and difficult areas, and along creek frontages to great effect and at low cost using tubestock plants.

 

Planting Techniques Tips and Hints

  1. Prepare the ground by digging out grass and weeds in about a 50cm circle and dig the ground down to the depth of a shovel.
  2. nursery4Ensure the tube is moist before planting.
  3. Remove the seedling by holding the tube upside down and give the rim a sharp tap with a stone or hammer. It will usually drop out without having to squeeze the plastic or pull hard on the stem.
  4. Make sure the root system is not above the soil surface.
  5. Fill around the plant with soil, to remve air pockets.
  6. Press the soil down firmly. However if the ground has been sprayed for weeds, make sure you use rubber gloves or shoes.
  7. If you have tree guards, place them carefully around the plant. These are beneficial to protect from rabbits, people, stock, wind etc.
  8. Water the plant in to get rid of air pockets, then mulch.
  9. Monitor your plant as it may require additional water in really dry seasons.

 

Native plants should not be treated with fertilisers with high levels of phosphate - too much is lethal or damaging. Freedom from weeds and provision of water is usually sufficient to keep the tree growing strongly. Check that the plants you are planting are suitable for the location and avoid putting in plants that will later interfere with power lines, drainage and buildings.