Garden Guides

Seed Sowing Guide Seed Sowing Guide Seed Sowing Growing plants from seed is incredibly rewarding and cost-effective to add beauty or produce fresh food in your garden. Watching a tiny seed transform into a full-grown plant is one of gardening’s great joys.
Growing from Seed Growing from Seed Growing from Seed with Mr Fothergill’s Growing flowers or vegetables from seed is a rewarding and cost-effective way to create a thriving garden. Watching tiny seeds grow into flourishing plants provides a sense of satisfaction and wonder.
Seed Tapes & Mats Seed Tapes & Mats Seed Tapes and Mats Seed tapes and mats take the hassle out of sowing. These innovative products are designed to make planting easier, more efficient, and less time-consuming.
Growing Blueberries Growing Blueberries Blueberries Blueberries are a versatile and nutritious fruit that makes a great addition to any garden. Not only are they easy to grow, but they also serve as lovely specimen plants in containers or as a low hedge.
Brambles Brambles Brambles Brambles, members of the Rubus family, include beloved berries like raspberries, blackberries, tayberries, and boysenberries. Their versatility and delicious fruits make them a fantastic addition to any garden.
Brassicas Brassicas Brassicas Brassicas, including broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and more, are nutrient-packed vegetables that add great flavour to your meals. Growing your brassicas not only saves money but also guarantees fresh produce.
Carrots & Cultivation Tips Carrots & Cultivation Tips Carrots & Cultivation Tips Carrots are easy to grow from seed and thrive when directly shown in the garden. Since they dislike being transplanted due to their fragile roots, starting from seed is key for a successful carrot crop.
Chillies & Peppers Chillies & Peppers Growing Chillies and Peppers Peppers are a fantastic addition to any garden, offering flavourful fruits and vibrant colour. Whether growing sweet capsicums or fiery chillies, peppers are easy to grow with the right care and attention
Citrus – Choosing What to Grow Citrus – Choosing What to Grow Citrus – Choosing What to Grow Citrus trees are a delightful addition to any garden, offering aesthetic appeal and edible rewards. The key to successful citrus growing lies in selecting the right varieties for your climate and available space.
Growing Citrus Growing Citrus Citrus Citrus trees are a must-have in any Kiwi Garden, offering an array of flavours and benefits. Easy to care for and evergreen, they provide delicious fruit for your culinary needs and make a beautiful, fragrant addition to your outdoor space.
Corn, Eggplants & Cucurbits Corn, Eggplants & Cucurbits Corn, Eggplants, and Cucurbits Growing corn, eggplants, and cucurbits can be tricky, but with the right knowledge and preparation, you’ll soon be enjoying a bumper crop of these delicious veggies.
Cucurbits Cucurbits Cucurbits Cucurbits, often thought of as vegetables, are fruits that belong to the Cucurbitaceae family. This group includes popular crops like cucumbers, pumpkins, squash, watermelons, rock melons, and zucchini/courgettes/marrows.
Creating a Veggie Garden Creating a Veggie Garden Creating a Veggie Garden Starting a veggie garden is a rewarding way to save money and ensures fresh, delicious produce right from your backyard. Growing your own vegetables offers the joy of knowing exactly where your food comes from
Crop Rotation Crop Rotation Crop Rotation Starting a veggie garden is a rewarding way to save money and ensures fresh, delicious produce right from your backyard. Growing your own vegetables offers the joy of knowing exactly where your food comes from
Dwarf Deciduous Fruit Trees Dwarf Deciduous Fruit Trees Dwarf Deciduous Fruit Trees Dwarf deciduous fruit trees are ideal for modern gardens, balconies, or patios. They take up less space, are easy to maintain, and provide full-sized fruit with minimal effort.
Feijoas Feijoas Feijoas Whether eaten fresh, added to baking, blended into smoothies, or made into jam, feijoas are a treat you’ll love to grow and enjoy.
Finger Limes Finger Limes Finger Limes With its tangy citrus burst, finger limes elevate everything from seafood dishes to cocktails. Whether you're growing them in the garden or a pot, these fruits are a feast for the taste buds and add a touch of elegance to any space.
Ballerina Apples: Space-Saving Fruit Trees Ballerina Apples: Space-Saving Fruit Trees Ballerina Apples Even if you're limited by garden space, you don’t have to miss out on the joy of harvesting fresh fruit.
Growing Beans Growing Beans Growing Beans Whether eaten raw or cooked, beans are versatile, nutritious, and easy to grow from seed or seedlings.
Edible Flowers Edible Flowers Edible Flowers Starting a veggie garden is a rewarding way to save money and ensures fresh, delicious produce right from your backyard. Growing your own vegetables offers the joy of knowing exactly where your food comes from
Family Tree Planting Family Tree Planting Family tree planting Maximise your garden’s potential with family tree planting! This innovative technique lets you grow multiple fruit varieties in one hole, offering a compact, productive orchard.
Growing Berries Growing Berries Berries Berries offer a wealth of vitamins, including A and C, along with trace elements and health-promoting properties—earning them the title of "nature’s health lollies.
Foodscaping with Pots & Planters Foodscaping with Pots & Planters Foodscaping with Pots and Planters Foodscaping is the perfect solution for those looking to grow their own fresh produce without sacrificing space or beauty, creating a functional and aesthetic garden.
Cherry Guava Cherry Guava Cherry Guava This hardy, versatile plant is not only able to withstand extreme weather conditions but also boasts impressive health benefits, including more vitamin C than citrus fruits and most vitamin C supplements.
Fruit Trees - Summer Pruning Fruit Trees - Summer Pruning Fruit Trees - Summer Pruning Summer pruning is a smart and effective way to manage fruit trees in smaller spaces, making it easier to harvest and maintain a healthy garden
How to Graft How to Graft How to Graft Grafting is a powerful technique for creating stronger, more fruitful trees by combining the best qualities of two plants. You can enhance plant health and productivity.
Codling Moth Codling Moth Codling Moth Codling moths are a headache for both orchardists and home gardeners alike. Let’s take a closer look at how to control them.
Asparagus Asparagus Asparagus Growing asparagus is like planting the gift that keeps on giving. This hardy vegetable thrives in New Zealand’s cooler climates, providing delicious spears for up to 20 years once established.
Avocado Avocado Avocado Avocado trees yield nutrient-rich fruit and make an attractive addition to any garden. You can enjoy bountiful harvests for years with the right mix of sunlight, care, and patience.
Figs: A Taste Sensation for Your Garden Figs: A Taste Sensation for Your Garden Figs Figs are hardy, low-maintenance deciduous trees that thrive in sunny spots. They produce sweet, nutrient-rich fruit that’s perfect fresh, baked, poached, or grilled.
Herbs - Tea Time Herbs - Tea Time Herbs - Tea Time Root rot is a common yet preventable issue for gardeners, often caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or fungi in the soil.
Herb Companion Planting Herb Companion Planting Herb Companion Planting Companion planting involves pairing plants that benefit each other, whether through pest control, pollination, or soil improvement. Herbs, flowers, and vegetables all have their ideal companions. Here’s a quick guide to get you started.
Grafted Tomatoes: The Secret to Higher Yields Grafted Tomatoes: The Secret to Higher Yields Grafted Tomatoes Grafted tomatoes are created by merging two different tomato varieties. The result is a plant with incredible resilience and productivity, used extensively by commercial growers worldwide.
Growing Tomatoes Growing Tomatoes Tomatoes – The Ultimate Growing Guide Tomatoes are a must-have in any garden, offering homegrown flavour and versatility for all your culinary needs. Whether you're planting in the garden, pots, or containers, tomatoes thrive with just the right care.
Strawberries Strawberries Strawberries Strawberries are a summer favourite, known for their juicy sweetness and vibrant colour. While we typically enjoy them in the warmer months, the key to a bumper strawberry crop starts long before summer.
Sprouts Sprouts Sprouts Sprouting is one of the quickest and simplest ways to grow healthy food at home. Whether growing them for salads, sandwiches, or stir-fries, sprouts are a great source of vitamins.
Shallots Shallots Shallots Shallots are a delicious and versatile addition to any garden, prized for their mild, sweet flavour. They are part of the allium family and are closely related to garlic, with the bonus of being relatively low maintenance for home gardeners.
Rhubarb Rhubarb Rhubarb Rhubarb is a versatile plant often used in sweet dishes, though it is technically a vegetable. Once established, it’s low-maintenance and can provide an abundance of tart stems perfect for pies, crumbles, and jams.
Potatoes Potatoes Growing Potatoes Growing your potatoes can be incredibly rewarding and surprisingly easy. Whether you want to grow them in the garden, pots or containers, potatoes are versatile and perfect for gardeners of all skill levels.
Potatoes: Frequently Asked Questions Potatoes: Frequently Asked Questions Potatoes: Frequently Asked Questions Learn how to prevent common issues like pests, scabs, and blight, and discover the best practices for planting, chitting, and mounding your spuds.
Persimmons Persimmons Persimmons Persimmons are a unique and delightful fruit. They are both edible and delicious, offering a sweet taste with an unusual texture and vibrant colour. Not only are they a treat for the taste buds, but they are also packed with nutrients.
Peas & Beans Peas & Beans Peas and Beans Peas and beans are some of the easiest and most rewarding vegetables to grow in a garden or containers. Not only do they thrive in various settings, but there’s nothing quite like harvesting fresh peas and beans straight from the vine.
Passionfruit Passionfruit Passionfruit If you want to plant a taste of summer in your garden, passionfruit (Passiflora edulis) is the perfect choice. It is easy to grow & offers a deliciously tangy fruit that can be eaten in various ways.
Sunflowers Sunflowers Sunflowers Nothing says summer like the cheerful face of a sunflower! These vibrant blooms are perfect for brightening up any garden or patio.
Raised Vegetable Gardens Raised Vegetable Gardens Raised Vegetable Gardens With so many benefits to raised vegetable gardens, there’s no reason not to start your own. It’s easier than you think, and the reward of fresh, delicious, and healthy vegetables is worth every effort.
Growing Saffron Growing Saffron Growing Saffron Transform your garden into a treasure trove with saffron, the world’s most luxurious spice. Revered for its vibrant colour and unique flavour, saffron is a rewarding crop that’s easier to grow than you might think
Winter Hardy Vegetables Winter Hardy Vegetables Winter Hardy Vegetables Autumn is the perfect time to start planning for your winter vegetable garden. With the cooler weather and dewy mornings, it's a great time to plant hardy veggies that will thrive through the colder months.
Pine Nuts Pine Nuts Pine Nuts Whether you’re looking to make your own pesto, sprinkle them on salads, or use them in savory dishes, growing your own pine nut tree can save you money while providing a sustainable and rewarding harvest.
Sage Sage Sage Sage is a low-maintenance herb that not only enhances your cooking but also boosts your garden’s biodiversity, attracting vital pollinators like bees. Perfect for both sunny gardens and pots, it’s a great choice for almost any space.
Tamarillo - Tree Tomato Tamarillo - Tree Tomato Tamarillo - Tree Tomato Tamarillo plants are not only a fascinating addition to the garden, but they also provide a delicious and healthy fruit. Known for their sweet-tart flavour, tamarillos are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from smoothies to chutneys.
Yams Yams Yams Oxalis Tuberosa, or the common yam, offers a rewarding harvest with minimal effort. With varieties like Red and Inca Gold, you can enjoy high yields and a tasty, nutritious vegetable that thrives in well-drained soil and sunny spots.
Zucchini Tennis Ball Zucchini Tennis Ball Zucchini Tennis Ball The Tennis Ball zucchini offers all the deliciousness of traditional zucchini in a compact, round shape. Ideal for small spaces or container gardening, these zucchinis are perfect for any meal, from stir-fries to BBQs.
Windowsill Gardens Windowsill Gardens Windowsill Gardens A windowsill garden is the perfect way to bring fresh greenery into your home, especially during the colder months. Growing herbs and microgreens adds a burst of flavour to your dishes.
Water Saving in the Garden Water Saving in the Garden Water Saving in the Garden With the increasing frequency of dry summers and the rising cost of excess water usage, saving water in the garden has become more important than ever.
Superfood Veggies Superfood Veggies Superfood Veggies Boost your health and enhance your garden by growing these superfood veggies! Packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, these will be a powerhouse addition to your home garden.
Strawberry Runners Strawberry Runners Strawberry – DIY Runners Strawberries are a rewarding and easy-to-grow plant, and the great news is that you can keep growing them year after year without buying new plants.
Square Foot Gardening Square Foot Gardening Square Foot Gardening If you're short on space, new to gardening, or simply looking for a low-maintenance, highly productive way to grow edibles, Square Foot Gardening (SFG) might be the perfect solution.
Prune & Train Fruit Trees Prune & Train Fruit Trees Prune and train your fruit trees All fruit trees require training and pruning to develop proper shape and form, yield high-quality fruit, and live significantly longer. Training and pruning should begin from planting.
Tomato Doctor Tomato Doctor Tomato Doctor Ensuring tomato plants stay healthy and productive is key to a successful harvest. Here are some tips and remedies for common tomato problems, including keeping plants free from pests and disease.
The Magic of Neem The Magic of Neem The Magic of Neem I often forget to mention the small yet powerful tools that keep my plants healthy. One of my favourites is Neem, a low-cost, organic product that has been a game changer in our garden.
Māori Potatoes Māori Potatoes Māori Potatoes Māori potatoes, or taewa, have a long cultural heritage in New Zealand, with Māori cultivating these unique and colourful varieties for over 200 years.
Moveable Gardens Moveable Gardens Moveable Gardens Moveable gardens are the perfect solution for those with limited space, renters, or anyone who loves the flexibility of gardening in portable spaces.
Olive Trees Olive Trees Olive Trees Olive trees are an iconic symbol of Mediterranean landscapes, known for their hardy nature and delicious fruit. Whether you dream of making olive oil or pickling olives, these trees are an excellent choice for aesthetic appeal and practical use.
Mushrooms Mushrooms Mushrooms Hobby mushroom growing has surged in popularity in recent years, and for good reason. Growing your mushrooms at home can be both fun and rewarding. One of the most popular and easy-to-grow varieties in New Zealand is the oyster mushroom.
Microgreens Microgreens Microgreens Sprouts and microgreens are among the easiest and quickest foods to grow, packed with nutrients and perfect for adding a fresh, healthy touch to any meal.
Mint Mania Mint Mania Mint Mania Mint is often an overlooked hero in the garden, but its versatility and wide range of uses make it a must-have for every household.
Growing Herbs Growing Herbs Growing Herbs Herbs are a fantastic addition to any garden, adding flavour, fragrance, and a boost to your cooking. Here’s a guide to help you grow some of the best herbs, including tips for proper care and harvesting
Companion Planting Companion Planting Companion Planting Looking to boost your garden’s health and productivity naturally? Companion planting is the perfect solution! Pairing plants to deter pests, improve soil fertility, and attract essential pollinators
Garlic - How to Grow Garlic - How to Grow Garlic - How to Grow Garlic is a versatile and essential ingredient in the kitchen and a rewarding crop to grow at home. With a bit of attention to detail, garlic can become one of your most successful garden crops.