Guides

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.

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

Guides

Why is my Michelia Losing Leaves in Spring?

If you’ve got a Michelia in your garden, you might notice something strange this time of year: just as the flowers are putting on a show, the leaves start to fall. So this begs the question: Why is my flowering Michelia losing leaves? It can look worrying — but the good news is, this is…

Read article10 Sep 2025

Guides

Tree Planting Guide: Expert Tips for Long-Term Tree Success

A step-by-step tree planting guide to help your trees grow strong and healthy—learn how to plant correctly for long-term success in gardens or public spaces.

Read article12 Jun 2025