Many new-build and land packages focus on maximising build space, while reducing planting space, which can result in small, impersonal outdoor areas bordered by fencing. However, with the right planting, any area can provide a natural sanctuary for homeowners and wildlife alike, says Rebecca Hughes from Blue Mountain Nurseries
When dealing with smaller planting sites, or a client who simply wishes to enhance the view of a bare fence or wall, landscapers can use climbers to add some greenery – and more!
For double the plant pleasure, consider edibles such as boysenberries, blackberries, grapes, kiwifruit, hops and olives. Alternatively, there are plenty of options available with attractive leaves and blossoms.
Some popular climbers for the New Zealand market include:
Clematis macropetala
Low-growing climber, covered in violet-blue flowers in spring. Good on a low wall or fence. Ht: 1m. Deciduous.
Clematis montana ‘Rubens’
Pink flowers in spring. Very hardy. Ht: 3m. Deciduous.
Clematis x cartmanii ‘Sweet Hart’
Beautiful white flowers in spring on a small climbing or weeping native Clematis. Deep green parsley-like leaves for a low fence. Ht: 1m. Evergreen.
Lapageria rosea ‘Red’
Chilean Bellflower. Climbing plant, evergreen. Red waxy-like flowers, requires shaded, sheltered position.
Trachelospermum jasminoides
Highly scented white Jasmine-like flowers in summer. A self-clinging climber for a sheltered sunny wall. Ht: 2m. Evergreen.
Wisteria sinensis ‘Blue Sapphire’ Blue-tinged mauve flowers on medium racemes. Strong perfume.
Roses Rose climbers never go out of style! Pictured: Rose Golden Gate and Rose Paul Transon.
Introducing fedges
Relatively new as a landscaping trend in New Zealand, but common in Britain and Europe, is the concept of ‘fedges’ – dense plantings grown as both a hedge and a fence. While a fedge can save thousands on fencing or walls, it requires time and patience.
Plants suitable for fedges include:
Pittosporum tenufolium ‘Lighten Up’
New in 2020. Delightful, fine, confetti foliaged matapo with gold-centred deep green leaves. Developed in Central Otago as one of the hardiest pittosporums. Forms an amazing narrow hedge. Ht: 1.5m.
Lonicera nitida
A very popular hardy, fine-leaved, evergreen shrub for almost all conditions, with sweetly scented flowers. Responds well to trimming. Ideal for topiary and hedging. Ht: 2m. Evergreen.
Photinia ‘Red Robin’
A very hardy bush with red new growths. Prune in summer for winter red colour. Ht: 2.5m. Evergreen.
Griselinia littoralis ‘Leprecorn’
Upright growing form with yellow stems and small green leaves. Makes a stunning hedge and can be grown as a screening plant up to 2m.
Griselinia littoralis ‘Kapuka or New Zealand broadleaf’
Shiny, attractive foliage. Prefers well-drained soil in full sun. Very hardy. Can tolerate frost, wind and coastal sites. Can be pruned to maintain a short shrub or hedge habit. Ht: 2.5m. Evergreen.
Elaeagnus x ebbingei
Hardy, fast-growing upright shrub with large, silvery green leaves. Highly scented flowers in autumn/early winter. Great for hedging in sun or shade. Wind, cold and salt tolerant. Ht: 1.5m. Evergreen.
Laurus nobilis
Aromatic foliage used in cooking, pyramidal tree or shrub. Stands trimming. Thrives in coastal conditions. Ht: 2m. Evergreen.
Prunus lusitanica
Large, evergreen shrub with dark-green glossy leaves. Very hardy. Cream flowers. Ht: 6-8m.
Azara microphylla
Upright tree of green foliage and vanilla or chocolate-scented flowers in summer. Ht: 3m. Evergreen. Fagus species English Beech and Copper Beech.
Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’
Formal, upright columnar tree. A very fine accent plant. Ht: 2m. Evergreen.
Thuja plicata ‘Western Red Cedar’
A fast-growing tree with very attractive foliage in summer, changing to bronze in winter. Hardy. Often used for shelter belts. Ht: 4m. Evergreen.
Crateagus ‘Pauls Scarlet’
A fast-growing tree with very attractive foliage in summer, changing to bronze in winter. Hardy. Often used for shelter belts. Ht: 4m. Evergreen.
Podocarpus totara ‘Aurea’
Golden Totara. Bright golden foliage when planted in full sun. Hardy native. Ht: 3m. Evergreen.
Podocarpus totara ‘Wanaka Black’
A tall, slow-growing tree. Leaves brownish black, stiff and sharply pointed. Native. Ht: 5m. Evergreen.
Rebecca Hughes has a Botany BSc with Honours and has been National Training Manager for the Horticulture Industry Training Organisation (ITO) and General Manager for the Community Support Services ITO.
She is currently co-director of Blue Mountain Nurseries, a family-run wholesale and retail plant nursery established in Tapanui in 1932.