Tag Archives: New Zealand

20 Feb

* TROPPO's Food Forest in Te Puke, BOP (www.foodforest.org.nz)

Our Mission: Cultivating a Thriving, Regenerative Future

• February 20, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Our Mission: Cultivating a Thriving, Regenerative Future We are committed to creating a thriving, sustainable food forest that not only nourishes our local community but also serves as a model for regenerative agriculture in the Bay of Plenty and beyond. By fostering deep connections between people...

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16 Feb

* Troppo's Plant Collection

Banana ‘Musa Acuminata var. Zebrina’ – The Striking Blood Banana

• February 18, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Grown in Te Puke, Bay of Plenty, NZ, the Banana Musa Acuminata var. Zebrina, popularly known as the Striking Blood Banana, has captivated plant enthusiasts with its vibrant foliage and unique appearance. Its striking red and green speckled leaves add a dramatic flair to any garden or indoor space, m...

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20 Jan

* Food Forests of New Zealand (www.foodforests.nz)

Brett’s Omanawa Food Forest Tour in the Bay of Plenty

• February 22, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Brett’s down-to-earth, true blue Kiwi approach to cultivating a thriving food forest in the Bay of Plenty is nothing short of inspiring. His philosophy revolves around keeping things simple, practical, and genuinely accessible, ensuring that anyone—whether a seasoned grower or a complete newbie—can ...

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24 Aug

Interesting Articles

Pawpaw in Invercargill? Tropical Fruit Thriving Down South!

• August 25, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Growing pawpaw in Invercargill and bananas in the Waikato might have seemed unusual in the past, but not anymore, says Aaron McCloy, a tropical fruit tree grower. McCloy, who owns Far North Tropicals, has been shipping his warmth-loving plants across New Zealand, and demand has quadrupled each year ...

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08 Jul

Garden and Plant Troubleshooting

Plants Biosecurity Index

• July 8, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

The Plants Biosecurity Index (PBI) is a searchable database of over 30,000 plant species. It provides information on whether they can be imported into New Zealand as seeds or nursery stock. For a more in depth search please visit the MPI website.

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27 Jun

Monthly Gardening Checklists

Fruit Gardener’s Diary for the Year in New Zealand

• February 17, 2025
• By Troppo
• 13 comments

New Zealand’s diverse climate allows for a wide range of fruiting plants to be grown throughout the year. Here is a month-by-month guide to help you plan your fruit garden, including planting, caring, and harvesting activities for the most common fruiting plants grown in New Zealand. January P...

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27 Jun

Flower Gardener's Diary, Monthly Gardening Checklists

Flower Gardener’s Diary for the Year in New Zealand

• June 27, 2024
• By Troppo
• 5 comments

New Zealand’s diverse climate allows for a wide range of flowering plants to thrive throughout the year. Here is a month-by-month guide to help you plan your flower garden, including planting, caring, and enjoying the blooms of the most common flowering plants grown in New Zealand. January Pla...

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27 Jun

Monthly Gardening Checklists, Vegetable Gardener's Diary

Vegetable Gardener’s Diary for the Year in New Zealand

• June 27, 2024
• By Troppo
• 5 comments

New Zealand’s temperate climate allows for a wide variety of vegetables to be grown throughout the year. Here is a month-by-month guide to help you plan your vegetable garden, including planting, caring, and harvesting activities for the most common vegetables grown in New Zealand. January Pla...

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27 Jun

Flower Gardener's Diary, Monthly Gardening Checklists, Vegetable Gardener's Diary

Fruit Tree, Vegetable, and Gardening Planting Calendar – A Broad Brushstroke for our NZ climate

• February 17, 2025
• By Troppo
• 5 comments

The Bay of Plenty region enjoys a temperate climate with warm summers and mild winters, making it ideal for growing a wide range of fruit trees, vegetables, and other garden plants. Here is a comprehensive planting calendar to help you plan your garden activities throughout the year. Fruit Tree Pla...

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13 Feb

The Weed Files

Holly Havoc: The Invasive Charm of Ilex aquifolium & Ilex cornuta in New Zealand

• June 24, 2024
• By Troppo
• 5 comments

Greetings, fellow garden enthusiasts and nature warriors! 🌿 Today, we’re uncovering the prickly truth about Holly – specifically, Ilex aquifolium (English Holly) and Ilex cornuta (Chinese Holly). These festive-looking plants may conjure up images of holiday cheer with their spiky leaves and bright r...

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20 Dec

The Weed Files

Beware the Beauty: The Invasive Charm of Bear’s Breeches in New Zealand

• June 24, 2024
• By Troppo
• 5 comments

Hey there, nature protectors and plant aficionados! 🌿 Have you ever encountered the striking Bear's Breeches, or Acanthus mollis, in your garden or local wild spaces? This plant, with its bold foliage and towering flower spikes, might look like a garden superstar. But behind its stunning appearance ...

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04 Dec

The Weed Files

The Tangled Tale of Old Man’s Beard: An Invasive Invader in New Zealand

• June 24, 2024
• By Troppo
• 5 comments

Hello, fellow nature lovers and weed warriors! 🌿 Today, we’re unraveling the story of one of New Zealand’s most notorious invasive plants: Old Man’s Beard, or Clematis vitalba. This fast-growing vine might look like a fairy tale with its fluffy, beard-like seeds, but don’t be fooled! It’s more like ...

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07 May

The Weed Files

The Puzzling Problem of Contorta Pine: An Invader of New Zealand

• June 24, 2024
• By Troppo
• 5 comments

Hello, nature lovers and environmental champions! 🌲 Today, we’re focusing on a tree that’s causing quite a stir in New Zealand’s landscapes: the Contorta Pine. Known botanically as Pinus contorta and commonly referred to as Lodgepole Pine or P. murrayana, this tree is part of the Pinaceae family. Wh...

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25 Apr

The Weed Files

The Fluffy Foe: Battling Woolly Mullein – Verbascum thapsus in New Zealand

• June 24, 2024
• By Troppo
• 5 comments

Hello, fellow gardeners and nature defenders! 🌿 Today, we’re turning the spotlight on a plant that might look soft and innocent but is causing big problems across New Zealand: Woolly Mullein, or Verbascum thapsus. This tall, fuzzy invader with its bright yellow flowers is more than just an unusual s...

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22 Feb

* Food Forests of New Zealand (www.foodforests.nz)

Byron’s Vision: Cultivating a Thriving Food Forest in Aotearoa

• February 22, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

From Soil to Sustenance: A Journey of Regenerative Growing Tucked away in the lush landscapes of New Zealand, Byron is weaving a vision of food sovereignty, biodiversity, and resilience through his food forest. His journey is not just about growing food—it’s about reconnecting with nature, restorin...

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12 Mar

Exploring New Zealand

Experience the Bay of Plenty, NZ Like a Local

• June 25, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Explore the Beaches Mount Maunganui (The Mount): A local favorite for its stunning beach and hiking trails. Climb to the summit for panoramic views. Papamoa Beach: Quieter than The Mount, great for a relaxing day by the sea. Visit Local Markets Tauranga Farmers Market: Held every Saturday morn...

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22 Feb

The Weed Files

The Persistent Pest: Tackling Twin Cress – Lepidium didymum in New Zealand

• June 24, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Hello, green thumbs and eco-warriors! 🌿 Today, we’re shedding light on a small but mighty invader that’s been creeping its way across New Zealand’s gardens and farmlands: Twin Cress, or Lepidium didymum. This tiny troublemaker may be easy to overlook, but its impact on our ecosystems is significant....

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01 Dec

Flower Gardener's Diary

December – Flower Gardener’s Diary for New New Zealand

• June 27, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

December is the height of summer in New Zealand, and your flower garden will be bursting with color and activity. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you manage your flower garden during this vibrant month. Planting Summer Annuals: Continue planting summer annuals such as marigolds, zinni...

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22 Nov

Landscaping & Lawns

Transforming Your Kiwi Backyard: Landscaping Trends in New Zealand

• June 26, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Ready to give your Kiwi backyard a fresh, modern makeover? New Zealand is embracing some fantastic landscaping trends that blend style, sustainability, and functionality. Whether you're looking to create a peaceful retreat or an entertainment hotspot, these ideas will help you transform your outdoor...

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01 Nov

Flower Gardener's Diary

November – Flower Gardener’s Diary for New Zealand

• July 23, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

November is a busy and exciting month for flower gardeners in New Zealand. With the onset of warmer weather, it's the perfect time to get your garden ready for summer. This diary will guide you through essential tasks and tips to ensure your flower garden thrives this season. Early November 1. Soi...

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11 Aug

The Weed Files

Dock the Invader: The Trouble with Rumex in New Zealand

• June 24, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Hey there, nature enthusiasts and garden guardians! 🌿 Have you ever come across those pesky plants with broad, paddle-like leaves in your backyard or paddock? Meet Dock – specifically, Rumex obtusifolius (Broad-leaved Dock), Rumex pulcher (Fiddle Dock), and Rumex conglomeratus (Clustered Dock). Thes...

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01 Aug

Flower Gardener's Diary

August – Flower Gardener’s Diary for New Zealand

• July 23, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

August marks the transition from winter to spring in New Zealand, making it an exciting time for flower gardeners. With the promise of warmer weather and longer days, there are plenty of tasks to prepare your garden for a vibrant spring bloom. This diary will guide you through essential tasks and ti...

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01 Jul

Flower Gardener's Diary

July – Flower Gardener’s Diary for New Zealand

• July 23, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

July is a mid-winter month in New Zealand, and while it may be cold, there are still plenty of tasks to keep flower gardeners busy. This diary will guide you through essential tasks and tips to ensure your flower garden is healthy and ready for the upcoming spring. Early July 1. Soil Preparation ...

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01 Dec

Monthly Gardening Checklists

Gardening Checklist for December in New Zealand

• June 27, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

December is a busy month in the garden as the weather warms up and plants thrive. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to help you stay on top of your gardening tasks and ensure your garden flourishes throughout the summer season. General Garden Maintenance Watering: Ensure all plants receive adeq...

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26 Nov

The Weed Files

Wild Ginger: The Beautiful but Invasive Invader of New Zealand

• June 24, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Hello, nature guardians and green enthusiasts! 🌿 Today, we’re taking a closer look at a pair of plants that are as captivating as they are problematic: Wild Ginger, specifically Hedychium gardnerianum (Kahili Ginger) and Hedychium flavescens (Yellow Ginger). These exotic beauties, while stunning, po...

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01 Nov

Monthly Gardening Checklists

Gardening Checklist for November in New Zealand

• June 27, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

November is late spring in New Zealand, and it's a bustling time in the garden as the weather warms up and plants enter a vigorous growth phase. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to help you make the most of your gardening activities this month. General Garden Maintenance Weeding: Regularly rem...

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01 Oct

Monthly Gardening Checklists

Gardening Checklist for October in New Zealand

• June 27, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

October marks the middle of spring in New Zealand, and it's a busy time in the garden as plants begin to grow vigorously. Here's a comprehensive checklist to help you stay on top of your gardening tasks this month. General Garden Maintenance Weeding: Regularly remove weeds to prevent them from...

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01 Sep

Monthly Gardening Checklists

Gardening Checklist for September in New Zealand

• June 27, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

September marks the beginning of spring in New Zealand, and it’s a vibrant time for gardeners as the weather warms up and plants begin to flourish. Here's a comprehensive checklist to help you manage your garden tasks in September. General Garden Maintenance Weeding: Regularly remove weeds to ...

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01 Aug

Monthly Gardening Checklists

Gardening Checklist for August in New Zealand

• June 27, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

August is the tail end of winter in New Zealand, and it's a crucial time to start preparing your garden for the upcoming spring. Here's a comprehensive checklist to help you get your garden ready for the new growing season. General Garden Maintenance Weeding: Keep on top of weeds to prevent th...

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01 Jul

Monthly Gardening Checklists

Gardening Checklist for July in New Zealand

• June 27, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

July is mid-winter in New Zealand, and while the weather can be cold and wet, there are still plenty of gardening tasks to keep you busy. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to help you maintain and prepare your garden during the winter months. General Garden Maintenance Weeding: Keep on top of w...

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01 Jun

Monthly Gardening Checklists

Gardening Checklist for June in New Zealand

• June 27, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

June marks the beginning of winter in New Zealand, and it's a time to protect your garden from the cold while preparing for the upcoming spring season. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to help you manage your garden tasks in June. General Garden Maintenance Weeding: Keep on top of weeds to...

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01 May

Monthly Gardening Checklists

Gardening Checklist for May in New Zealand

• June 27, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

May marks the beginning of late autumn in New Zealand, and it's time to prepare your garden for the upcoming winter months. Here's a comprehensive checklist to help you keep your garden in top shape during May. General Garden Maintenance Weeding: Regularly remove weeds to prevent them from com...

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01 Apr

Monthly Gardening Checklists

Gardening Checklist for April in New Zealand

• June 27, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

April marks the middle of autumn in New Zealand, and it’s a crucial time to prepare your garden for the cooler months ahead. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to help you maintain your garden and get it ready for winter. General Garden Maintenance Weeding: Regularly remove weeds to prevent them...

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01 Mar

Monthly Gardening Checklists

Gardening Checklist for March in New Zealand

• June 27, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

March marks the beginning of autumn in New Zealand, and it’s a time to start transitioning your garden from the summer heat to cooler autumn weather. Here's a comprehensive checklist to help you maintain and prepare your garden during March. General Garden Maintenance Weeding: Regularly remove...

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01 Feb

Monthly Gardening Checklists

Gardening Checklist for February in New Zealand

• June 27, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

February is the last full month of summer in New Zealand, and it’s an important time to keep your garden thriving and start preparing for the cooler months ahead. Here's a comprehensive checklist to help you manage your garden tasks in February. General Garden Maintenance Watering: Ensure your...

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01 Jan

Monthly Gardening Checklists

Gardening Checklist for January in New Zealand

• June 27, 2024
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

January is the height of summer in New Zealand, and it's a busy time in the garden. The warmer weather and longer days mean plants are growing vigorously. Here's a comprehensive checklist to help you manage your garden tasks in January. General Garden Maintenance Watering: Ensure your garden i...

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