Selecting the Right Plants for Your Landscape: A Simple Guide

Stacey Perkinson
Jul 02, 2024By Stacey Perkinson

Choosing the right plants for your landscape can transform your outdoor space into a beautiful haven. It may seem daunting, but with a bit of guidance, you can select plants that thrive and bring joy to your garden.

Understand Your Climate

The first step is to understand your local climate. Auckland, for instance, has a temperate climate with mild, wet winters and warm, humid summers. Knowing this helps you choose plants that will flourish in these conditions.

Research plants that are native to your region. Native plants are adapted to the local climate and soil, making them easier to care for.

climate plants

Improving Soil Quality

If your soil isn’t ideal, don’t worry. You can improve it by adding organic matter like compost. This enhances soil structure and provides nutrients for your plants.

Young green plant sprouting from brown soil on nature background. Environmental concept.

Creating Microclimates

You can create microclimates in your garden by using structures or other plants to provide shade or wind protection. This allows you to grow a wider variety of plants.

Newly planted tree at roadside, with three stakes to support it, single yellow car passing.

Select plants that provide interest throughout the year. This might include spring flowers, summer foliage, autumn colors, and winter berries.

By planning for seasonal interest, your garden will look attractive in every season.

seasonal garden

Group plants with similar water requirements together to make watering easier and more efficient.

Drought-tolerant plants are a good choice if you want to reduce water usage and maintenance.

watering plants