Trees

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

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

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

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

Trees

Watering Your Plants Over Summer: Why It Matters (Especially in Their First Year)

Summer in New Zealand brings warmth, long days, and fast-growing gardens. But for plants recently planted from spring through early summer, hot, dry conditions can quickly become a challenge. Proper summer watering isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s one of the most important steps to help new trees, shrubs, and ornamentals survive and thrive through their…

Read article12 Jan 2026

Trees

Understocking Grafted Trees in Spring: Understand the Rootstock, Scion and the Need to Understock

Watch: Understocking Grafted Trees This Spring Spring is one of the most exciting times in the garden — buds are bursting, new growth is appearing, and ornamental trees are waking up. However, for grafted trees, not all new growth is equally beneficial: shoots from the rootstock below the graft can grow quickly and compete with…

Read article4 Nov 2025

Trees

Designing with Trees: How to Choose the Perfect Garden Focal Point

Every garden needs a centrepiece. That one tree that stops you in your tracks, gives structure, and defines the space. Trees aren’t just plants—they’re living architecture. They shape how we move through a garden, create layers of interest, and anchor the design. A single, well-chosen tree can transform a garden from ordinary to remarkable…

Read article19 Sep 2025

Trees

Avenue Trees: 6 Powerful Ways They Transform Landscapes

Let’s be honest – most streets are pretty boring. Asphalt, signage, the odd lamppost… and that’s about it. But line the same street with trees, and suddenly – bam! It feels like somewhere you want to be. That’s the magic of avenue trees. They don’t just look good. They work hard behind the scenes to…

Read article18 Sep 2025