Leafland Nursery Blog: Plant Advice & More

Welcome to the Leafland Nursery Blog — your go-to source for plant advice, tree care, and landscaping inspiration. Whether you’re planning a residential garden or a large-scale project, we’ve got practical guides and seasonal tips to help you plant with confidence.

Trees

Michelia figo Pruning and Care Advice

Michelia figo, the Port Wine Magnolia, gives off a sweet, fruity scent that's strongest in late afternoon. Douglas explains where to plant it, why to avoid full sun, and how to clip it lightly for a dense, glossy shrub.

Read article27 Oct 2026

Tree Selection

Top Flowering Trees to Add Colour to Your Garden

Few things bring a garden to life quite like a tree in flower. Whether you’re after spring blossom, rich purple blooms or year-round evergreen foliage, there are plenty of flowering trees for New Zealand gardens that add colour, structure and seasonal interest to almost any outdoor space. Whether you’re after a statement tree for…

Read article3 Sep 2026

Trees

The Ultimate Guide to New Zealand Native Trees

There is something pretty special about planting a tree that belongs here. New Zealand has an incredible range of native trees, from bright spring flowers to hardy evergreens that can handle some of our wildest weather. But choosing the right one isn’t always as simple as picking the nicest-looking tree at the nursery. Is…

Read article21 Aug 2026

Guides

Acer buergerianum Pruning Video and Advice

Acer buergerianum (Trident Maple) Overview & Key Characteristics Acer buergerianum is commonly known as the Trident Maple because, like a trident, it has three lobes on each leaf. It is an exceptionally tough, versatile deciduous tree prized for its delicate foliage, vibrant seasonal displays, and outstanding resilience. Unlike many delicate maples that require sheltered conditions…

Read article11 Aug 2026

Guides

Why Winter Is the Best Time to Plant Trees in New Zealand

Most people reckon spring is the best time to plant trees. Warmer weather, new growth everywhere – it makes sense on the face of it. But if you want to give a new tree the best possible start, winter is often the smarter choice. Across New Zealand, winter brings cooler temperatures, more consistent soil moisture,…

Read article4 Aug 2026

Guides

Pruning Guide and Video: Cornus Controversa ‘Variegata’

Pruning Cornus Controversa ‘Variegata’ The Cornus controversa ‘Variegata’ (commonly known as the Wedding Cake Tree) is famous for its distinct, horizontal layers of cream-and-green foliage and dramatic spring blooms. However, getting that iconic, architectural silhouette requires thoughtful formative pruning when the tree is young. Here is how to train your young ‘Variegata’ to develop its…

Read article27 Jul 2026

Guides

Pruning Guide and Video: How to Shape and Maintain Liquidambar ‘Gumball’

Welcome to the first video in our new pruning series! Over the course of this series, we will walk you through how to master structural tree care, and we are starting things off with the easiest one of them all: the Liquidambar styraciflua ‘Gumball’. Often referred to by growers as the “lollipop tree,” this compact…

Read article14 Jul 2026

Trees

Why Are My Citrus Leaves Turning Yellow in Winter? Common Causes & Solutions

If you’ve noticed your lemon, lime, mandarin, or orange tree looking a little yellow through autumn and winter, you’re certainly not alone. Citrus leaves turning yellow are one of the most common concerns we hear about during the colder months, especially on lemon trees growing in New Zealand gardens. The good news is that in…

Read article2 Jun 2026

Trees

How to Feed Citrus Trees in Autumn

As autumn sets in, citrus trees are still actively working in the garden, continuing to support fruit development and maintain foliage. However, this is the point in the season where your care approach should begin to shift. As temperatures gradually drop, growth naturally slows and the tree’s energy focus changes. What you feed at this…

Read article13 Apr 2026

Trees

Grass Grub Beetle on Trees: Signs, Prevention & Treatment (NZ Guide)

If your tree suddenly looks full of holes in late summer, you’re likely dealing with grass grub beetle damage. This is a common seasonal pest in New Zealand, especially on fruit trees and newly planted trees. The damage can look dramatic — but if you understand the grass grub beetle lifecycle, it’s manageable. Keep…

Read article25 Feb 2026

Tree Selection

Pyrus calleryana ‘Slim Jim’ Featured by Epic Landscape Design

In one of their recent Canterbury projects, Epic Landscape Design incorporated the striking Pyrus calleryana ‘Slim Jim’, a new introduction to the plant industry. Known for its narrow, columnar form, ‘Slim Jim’ adds modern elegance and structure to any landscape, making it perfect for driveways, pathways, or tighter spaces. It’s exciting to see forward-thinking…

Read article16 Feb 2026

Trees

Top Shade Trees for Paddocks, Livestock, and Gardens

Shade trees aren’t just decorative—they’re essential for paddocks, horse studs, and home gardens. Providing shelter from the sun keeps animals healthy, reduces heat stress, and improves productivity. Why Shade Trees Are Important for Stock and Home Gardens All stock require protection from direct sunlight and high temperatures. Without shade, animals risk heat stress, reduced…

Read article16 Jan 2026