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Modern outdoor patio with white sofa, glass pool fence, potted plants, and grassy path.

How to create the perfect outdoor space for your home

From small courtyard to entertaining hang-out, here’s how to dial up the style and make the most of your summer living space We’re a nation that loves to venture outdoors to play, relax and entertain. But unfortunately – unlike warmer climes with almost-constant sunshine and blue skies – our variable climate makes outdoor living a […]
Outdoor wooden dining table under pergola, set for a meal with colorful plates, glasses, and flower vase in rustic garden.

Your astrological guide to gardening

What does your astrological sign say about the way you should tend your garden? Plenty! Aries MARCH 21 TO APRIL 19 You natural-born leaders, fearless trendsetters and slightly self-absorbed souls love unusual, bold and striking plants. Your garden has the hottest plant before it becomes hot; the coolest designs before they become cool. None dare […]
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A serene Japanese garden with a gravel path winding through lush greenery and trees, leading to a traditional wooden house.

Give your garden some direction with a beautiful garden path

There is so much more to paths than just perfunctory straight lines. With long-distance travel out, it’s a great opportunity to go on a journey without leaving your garden Useful as they are for getting from A to B, from the back door to the washing line or the front door to the gate, paths […]
These 5 landscape design tips will help you get the best out of your garden

These 5 landscape design tips will help you get the best out of your garden

Is your garden a bleak vista inhabited by a few straggly citrus trees on the lawn, or do you live in a house where the outside areas feel disconnected from the inside? From creating a good first impression to planting for the future, our expert landscape designer has some sage advice Like anything worthwhile, the […]
21 top rose varieties to suit all your floral and garden needs

21 top rose varieties to suit all your floral and garden needs

The enduring love affair we have with roses is strong. From the best smelling to the thornless, here’s our top 21 picks of the bunch Fossil evidence shows the rose to be an ancient flower – about 35 million years old, in fact. From Central Asia it spread throughout the northern hemisphere – America, Europe, […]
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10 ways to transform your small balcony into an outdoor oasis

10 ways to transform your small balcony into an outdoor oasis

Even the smallest space can bring you summer joy If you think your balcony is too small to provide a beautiful outdoor room to escape to, think again. Take a look at your tiny balcony. Does it serve as an outdoor room, or is it crowded with junk, dead pot plants, washing lines, mops and […]
Homes to Love Australia
Modern black shipping container home with wooden deck, stairs, and landscaped garden with stones and plants.

Here’s how modern mattes can add understated elegance to your home exterior

Transform the look of your home with the new Matte range from COLORSTEEL®  For rugby great and keen surfer Sir John Kirwan, finding just the right finish for the rebuild of his family bach in Waihi was incredibly important. “I’ve been going there all my life. It’s like my spiritual home,” he says. He wanted […]
A lush garden scene with a variety of green plants, a tree, ferns, and a potted plant against a concrete wall.

Inside a peaceful and sustainable garden in the heart of Christchurch

Leading landscape architect Di Lucas’ creative and sustainable influence can be seen in many of the country’s big projects, so it’s no surprise her own outdoor space works in peaceful harmony with its environment A well-considered garden design references not only the architecture of the building it surrounds, but also the wider landscape including its […]
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How to choose the right style of planter for your pot plants

How to choose the right style of planter for your pot plants

From ceramic to terracotta to concrete, here’s how to match your planter to your interior style and arrange your pots like a pro Pots come in many shapes and sizes, in materials such as ceramic, terracotta, aluminium, fibreglass, stone, concrete and plastic. Plants can be planted into any number of containers – you are only […]
Everything you need to know about installing an outdoor shower

Everything you need to know about installing an outdoor shower

The outdoor shower is increasingly becoming a regular feature in the backyard, here’s all you need to know  It’s a scorching hot summer day, and you’ve arrived home after a swim at the beach. You’re feeling refreshed and invigorated, but you’re also covered in sand and sea salt. Rinse off in the sunshine under an […]
5 essential things you need to know when caring for pot plants

5 essential things you need to know when caring for pot plants

Bring a plant parent can be hard, luckily you can use these five simple signposts to make sure you’re keeping them happy and healthy The average size of a section has shrunk by about a third over the past 30 years, signalling the end of the Kiwi quarter-acre dream. But having only a small patch, […]
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4 of the best shade options every outdoor area needs this summer

4 of the best shade options every outdoor area needs this summer

Every outdoor area needs a space that’s sheltered from the sun’s harsh rays. Here’s how to create the perfect shady spot Being in the garden and enjoying the sunshine is one of life’s top simple pleasures. But when the temperatures rise and the UV rays are strong, it’s a welcome relief to find a shady […]
3 outdoor settings to take you from brekkie in the sun to dinner alfresco

3 outdoor settings to take you from brekkie in the sun to dinner alfresco

These three outdoor settings take you through the day, from brekkie in the sunshine, to a lazy afternoon read-and-snooze, then dinner al fresco 1. Breakfast in the sun: Nothing really beats breakfast in the sun on a summer’s morning. Make breakfast service a breeze with a stylish bar cart laden with your favourite brekkie foods. […]
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How Clint Roberts and Lucy Slight got their deck sorted for summer

How Clint Roberts and Lucy Slight got their deck sorted for summer

ZM Drive Show host Clint Roberts and Your Home and Garden contributor Lucy Slight share how they’re sorted for easy summer living, thanks to Cabot’s Aquadeck Nothing says ‘Kiwi summer’ like alfresco feasts with friends and family. The evenings are long, the weather is warm and those well-deserved bevvies are moreishly cold. And there’s nowhere […]
How to create the ultimate outdoor kitchen on any budget

How to create the ultimate outdoor kitchen on any budget

Want to take your al fresco cooking to a new level? Here’s how to create the ultimate outdoor kitchen and go from burnt sausages to haute cuisine Barbecuing has long been a part of the Kiwi summer experience, but more and more people want to take their al fresco cooking to the next level with […]
Everything you need to do in the garden this November

Everything you need to do in the garden this November

It’s not too late to sow courgettes for summer, plus now’s the time to plant your annual herbs – a kitchen staple. See more garden tasks below Harvest Salad greens: For the freshest salads, pick rocket, lettuce, radicchio and mesclun in the morning when leaves are fully hydrated. Do the same for leafy greens such as […]
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How to prepare your deck for summer entertaining in 3 simple steps

How to prepare your deck for summer entertaining in 3 simple steps

Your deck is a unique haven, the one space in your home that doesn’t need pruning, weeding, dusting or vacuuming. Get your deck ready for the summer entertaining season by using Cabot’s products to create a low-maintenance timber finish you’ll love If you want to enhance the colour of your deck while keeping the natural […]
Your guide to all the essential tools you need to care for your garden

Your guide to all the essential tools you need to care for your garden

These essential gardening tools will have every gardener planting, potting pruning and picking in no time (green thumbs not included) Gardening can be confusing for beginners. From pruning and making compost, to tying up broad beans and deadheading roses, there’s a seemingly endless list of things to do at different times of year. Some newbie […]
Your guide for what to do in the garden this October

Your guide for what to do in the garden this October

It’s time to harvest spinach, sow your beans and plant tomatoes. Here are all your garden tasks to complete this October Harvest Spinach: As the weather warms, spinach, rocket and other leafy greens can bolt (turn to seed and stop producing leaves). To avoid this keep picking as much as possible, even the young flower stems […]
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Our gardens editor shares her top 5 plants for beginner gardeners

Our gardens editor shares her top 5 plants for beginner gardeners

Garden editor, Carol Bucknell, tells us about her own garden and shares her top five plants every beginner gardener should consider YH&G gardens editor Carol Bucknell has been with us since 1994, when ruched blinds, bullnose benchtops and coloured windows were all the rage. We asked her how she became a gardening guru and how […]
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6 low maintenance lawn alternatives that won’t break the bank

This round-up of easy-care lawn alternatives is your answer to ditching the mower They’re innocent and ubiquitous; a symbol of domestic space to run around and relax to be seen on every Kiwi street from Cape Reinga to Bluff. We don’t really ever question if we need them – they’re just something we have. But […]
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These outdoor storage ideas will get your garden winter ready

These outdoor storage ideas will get your garden winter ready

Get the garden ready for winter with outdoor storage solutions that keep everything safe, dry and out of sight but still within easy reach 1. Make a plan When planning a new garden or remodelling an existing one, look out for areas that can’t be seen but are still relatively accessible, such as a narrow […]
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10 easy ways to help transform your outdoor space

10 easy ways to help transform your outdoor space

Make your outdoor space feel bigger by improving its connections to both indoor areas and the wider environment When your garden is small or simply consists of a balcony, deck or courtyard, increasing its sense of space even a little can make a huge difference. With a few clever touches you can turn these areas […]
Here’s what you should be doing in the garden this May

Here’s what you should be doing in the garden this May

It’s time to harvest your beetroot, sow some bok choy and plant your strawberries. These are your garden tasks for May What to harvest: When harvesting beetroots, don’t throw away the leaves, which are great in salads and stir-fries. I often leave a few beetroots in the ground after harvest for a good supply of […]
Essential garden tasks to tick off this April

Essential garden tasks to tick off this April

The season is changing, so here’s your complete guide to what you should be harvesting, planting and sowing in the garden this April The best vegetables to harvest  Kūmara harvesting begins this month. You’ll know when yours are ready if most of the plant has turned yellow. If frosts are likely in your area, dig […]
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Here are the best vegetables to plant and harvest in the garden this March

Here are the best vegetables to plant and harvest in the garden this March

It’s time to harvest the last of the summer produce and start preparing for Autumn by planting and sowing new vegetables Best vegetables to harvest When harvesting summer vegetables, don’t discard those with the odd mark or two. Perfect shapes and unblemished leaves do not make your crops taste any better. Pick globe artichoke before […]
How to give your garden a landscaping facelift that’s budget savvy

How to give your garden a landscaping facelift that’s budget savvy

Creating a new garden doesn’t have to mean starting from scratch. It’s better for the budget and the planet to work with what you have to give your garden a facelift 1. Survey your site Begin by assessing the garden thoroughly. When making over an existing garden (or, indeed, starting with bare earth), knowing your […]
How to update your landscaping plans with playful water features

How to update your landscaping plans with playful water features

Whether you’re after something deep and meaningful or just want to dip your toe in, here’s how to bring water into your outdoor space with water features In the heat of summer, there’s nothing quite like relaxing in the garden beside a swimming pool or a gently trickling fountain. Although swimming pools are not in […]
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10 planet-friendly garden trends we’re getting amongst in 2019

10 planet-friendly garden trends we’re getting amongst in 2019

You might already be the proud owner of a vertical garden, an indoor jungle or bee-pleasing plants. But what new, planet-friendly trends are on the horizon in 2019? Garden goals It’s natural to make a few well-meaning resolutions when a new year dawns. Exercise more, eat better, be kinder to our loved ones, enjoy the outdoors […]
These are the best vegetables to plant in your garden this January

These are the best vegetables to plant in your garden this January

What better way to start the New Year than creating your own kitchen garden. Here are the best vegetables to plant, harvest and sow this January Best vegetables to plant Buy sweetcorn seedlings rather than sow seed if summers are short in your region, as sweetcorn needs around 14 weeks from seed to harvest. There […]
These 5 outdoor areas will make you want to dine outside tonight

These 5 outdoor areas will make you want to dine outside tonight

 From BBQ entertaining patios to gardens blooming with flowers and vegetables, these New Zealand gardens will inspire your own outdoor makeover 1. St Heliers Entertaining area When owners Brett and Sarah Dobson first spied a five-bedroom house in a quiet cul-de-sac in St Heliers they were undaunted, despite the amount of work that needed to be […]
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These 5 pools made a splash on Homes to Love in 2018

These 5 pools made a splash on Homes to Love in 2018

Feeling the summer heat? Cool off with five of the best pools to feature on Homes to Love this year 1. Dreamy Waikato new build  Kent and Olivia Fife’s outdoor area is the kind of place where you want to plonk yourself down on a hot summer’s day and stay there until sundown. Kent and […]
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How to bring a cool vintage vibe to your poolside style

How to bring a cool vintage vibe to your poolside style

Create a nostalgic backyard oasis inspired by 1970s poolside style How to bring a cool vintage vibe to your poolside style While I wasn’t lucky enough to have a pool growing up, I had a lot of fun hanging out at other people’s pools. Both my neighbours and grandparents built pools in the 1970s, classic […]
How to use Bali-inspired style to always feel relaxed in your garden

How to use Bali-inspired style to always feel relaxed in your garden

Style Director Catherine Wilkinson shows us how to embrace the zen vibes of Bali to create the perfect little outdoor escape How to use Bali-inspired style to always feel relaxed in your garden Evening sundowners, social gatherings and basking in balmy temperatures mean summer has arrived – and the beauty of natural light at this time […]
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4 essential ways to give your outdoors a facelift for summer

4 essential ways to give your outdoors a facelift for summer

By the time summer knocks on our door, we’re all going to want an outdoor living area worthy of welcoming it with open arms. Here’s how PlaceMakers can help make it happen 4 essential ways to give your outdoors a facelift for summer There’s nothing more Kiwi than firing up the barbie on a summer […]
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This is the most affordable and stylish outdoor furniture to buy this season

This is the most affordable and stylish outdoor furniture to buy this season

Sunshine hours are about to get their glow on, ready for the season of all things outdoors. Create a look you’ll love this summer with stunning outdoor living spaces and beautiful, functional furnishings, inspired by the new summer collection from The Warehouse This is the most affordable and stylish outdoor furniture to buy this season […]
This tropical inspired pool has the ultimate diving platform

This tropical inspired pool has the ultimate diving platform

After 15 years in the swimming pool business, this couple finally designed and built the pool area – and tropical garden – of their dreams This tropical inspired pool has the ultimate diving platform When you own a swimming pool maintenance and renovation business, it’s a no-brainer that your own pool should be something pretty […]
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Save or splurge on these 8 stylish outdoor updates

Save or splurge on these 8 stylish outdoor updates

Summer is just around the corner and it’s time to get your outdoors ready. Here are some suggestions for giving your garden an update, whether you want to spend big or small Save or splurge on these 8 stylish outdoor updates Spend a lot, or spend a little. The choice is yours with these practical […]
How to create a contemporary garden at your place

How to create a contemporary garden at your place

Contemporary gardens are all about comfort, style and clean, minimal finishes. Think a stylish pool for parties and playtime How to create a contemporary garden at your place Cabana cues Poolside fun in contemporary gardens is all about keeping things simple and organised. As their pool area is not on the same level as the […]
Here’s how a florist and a builder created a blooming cottage garden

Here’s how a florist and a builder created a blooming cottage garden

Some overzealous tenants meant this green-fingered couple had to start their cottage garden from scratch, but the result is bloomin’ beautiful  Here’s how a florist and a builder created a blooming cottage garden  Creating a cottage garden to suit their old Tauranga homestead involved no brain strain at all for Meg and Brian Claxton. Meg […]
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7 things to remember when buying outdoor furniture

7 things to remember when buying outdoor furniture

These eight tips for selecting and buying outdoor furniture are all you need to know before you set out on your next shopping trip 7 things to remember when buying outdoor furniture 1. Remember to measure up Planning and measuring is key. Choosing your outdoor furniture can be a big investment so it’s important to have an idea […]
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These are your best outdoor shade options for summer

These are your best outdoor shade options for summer

Enjoying the outdoors in summer is all about keeping cool, which means finding the ideal style of shade protection for your garden These are your best outdoor shade options for summer Some like it hot, but most of us prefer to be cool when the sun is beating down. These days we’re not just seeking […]
These are the garden tasks to complete this November

These are the garden tasks to complete this November

Gardens to see, how to give your garden a summer boost and the best flowers to find at garden centres this month. Check these garden tasks off in November  These are the garden tasks to complete this November Fed up with buying stuff for Christmas presents that will only end up as landfill within a […]
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Here’s what to plant, harvest and sow in the garden this November

Here’s what to plant, harvest and sow in the garden this November

BBQ season is in full swing, so keep planting lettuces and mesculin for on-demand salads. Plus it’s time to start some home-grown prep for Christmas Here’s what to plant, harvest and sow in the garden this November + You’ll need plenty of salad greens now that barbecue season is in full swing. Keep planting lettuces and […]
11 best outdoor chairs to make summer living stylish

11 best outdoor chairs to make summer living stylish

Sit back and relax in style this summer in these on-trend outdoor chairs. From budget-friendly to designer details, here’s how to choose the right one for your outdoor space 11 best outdoor chairs to make summer living stylish With the lazy summer months fast approaching, now is the time to get your garden, deck or […]
How to create a cute cottage garden brimming with flowers

How to create a cute cottage garden brimming with flowers

Think meandering paths and curved flower beds, and allow plants to cascade over the edges of paths, walls and fences How to create a cute cottage garden brimming with flowers Originating three centuries ago in rural England, cottage gardens are typified by a profusion of flowers planted in an informal, uncontrived way. Think meandering paths and […]
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How to keep your garden looking great in November

How to keep your garden looking great in November

With November weather being so unpredictable its important to prepare your garden for anything. Use our gardening tips and tricks to guide the way How to keep your garden looking great in November + November means unpredictable weather. One minute you’re trying to stop pots from drying out, the next you’re staking plants. The motto for […]
This couple found healing in creating a bountiful urban garden

This couple found healing in creating a bountiful urban garden

Planning and planting a verdant home garden in Tauranga has been both healing and enriching for this hands-on couple This couple found healing in creating a bountiful urban garden For Isaac Weston and Lara Bui, 2008 and 2009 were extremely challenging years. With two unsuccessful rounds of IVF and the passing of their beloved cat, […]
Here’s how to make the most of your small urban garden

Here’s how to make the most of your small urban garden

Urban gardens are typically small and underutilised. Here’s how, with a little savvy planning, you can create a number of different spaces, from outdoor dining to growing your own vegetables.  Here’s how to make the most of your small urban garden Shade  There’s a big difference in the quality of an open space like an […]
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This small garden delivers on family-friendly design

This small garden delivers on family-friendly design

Improved for privacy and packed with family-friendly features, this modestly sized garden is big on rest and recreation To say that Leighton Bycroft’s garden is versatile would be an understatement. Despite its compact size, there’s a variety of features and spaces cleverly slotted into this outdoor space in Millwater, Silverdale, making it an ideal hang-out […]
Tulip magnolia is the spring bloom to have in your home

Tulip magnolia is the spring bloom to have in your home

These flowers light up the garden this season, here’s how to use them in a flower arrangement Tulip magnolia is the spring bloom to have in your home This magnificent flowering tree produces goblet-shaped blooms that light up the garden in late winter and spring. These deciduous trees can vary in shape and size from […]
Tick these garden tasks off your list this October

Tick these garden tasks off your list this October

Spring is the season for flowers, so make sure your blooms are getting the best possible treatment. Here’s your October gardening checklist Tick these garden tasks off your list this October + Feed your roses and check out new varieties in garden centres, or older types in your neighbour’s garden to add to your own garden […]
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This is what you should be doing in your garden this October

This is what you should be doing in your garden this October

Spring is in the air. It’s time to pick new asparagus shoots and put sprouted potatoes in the ground. Here’s what to sow, plant and harvest in October The best vegetables to plant in October + If you’re lucky enough to have space for growing potatoes, it’s not too late to plant. Soil temperatures needs to […]
A post-earthquake rebuild incorporated a Swan Lake garden makeover

A post-earthquake rebuild incorporated a Swan Lake garden makeover

A post-earthquake rebuild was extended to incorporate a garden makeover for this Christchurch section, which includes mature native trees and a private lake A post-earthquake rebuild incorporated a Swan Lake garden makeover Facing a complete rebuild of their house after the Christchurch earthquakes, Marisa Bryan and Mike Payne decided to take the opportunity to reshape […]
7 tips to ensure your pot plants’ survival

7 tips to ensure your pot plants’ survival

Pot plants are all the rage but getting lush results takes a little planning. Here’s how to create a perfect potted garden 7 tips to ensure your pot plants’ survival With outdoor space at such a premium these days, many of us are gardening in containers. And why not? Pot plants are perfect for those […]
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Give your garden a boost this September with our spring gardening guide

Give your garden a boost this September with our spring gardening guide

From planting annuals to topping up potting mix and sowing a new lawn, these easy spring gardening tips will give your garden a much-needed boost just in time for summer Give your garden a boost this September with our spring gardening guide + If your garden is looking a little bare after winter fill the gaps with easy-care […]
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How an award-winning home got major street appeal from its garden

How an award-winning home got major street appeal from its garden

This award-winning Auckland home has huge street appeal, thanks in large part to its distinctive exterior and community-friendly garden How an award-winning home got major street appeal from its garden On a prominent corner in the inner Auckland suburb of Point Chevalier, Debra Millar and Guy Tarrant’s home turns its back to the street, and […]
These expert ideas will help you make the most of your sloping garden

These expert ideas will help you make the most of your sloping garden

Wish you could get more out of your sloping garden? Carol shares her tips on how to be strategic with steps and retaining walls These expert ideas will help you make the most of your sloping garden Many of us dream of owning a house with a flat site. However, the reality is a large […]
Why eucalyptus should be every budding florist’s best friend

Why eucalyptus should be every budding florist’s best friend

With its silvery green leaves, scent and sculptural quality, eucalyptus foliage is the it ideal choice for indoor arrangements Why eucalyptus should be every budding florist’s best friend There was a time when silver dollar trees (Eucalyptus cinerea) were seen in gardens everywhere. These days eucalypts aren’t as common, which is a shame as there […]
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Start preparing your garden for spring with these easy tips

Start preparing your garden for spring with these easy tips

From new spring bulbs to pruning tips, get a jump start on the change of season and keep your garden looking great with our expert gardening guide Start preparing your garden for spring with these easy tips + Thoughts of spring are on every gardener’s mind at this time of year, with daffodils and other bulbs […]
Here are the best vegetables to plant and harvest in your garden in August

Here are the best vegetables to plant and harvest in your garden in August

It’s easy to get busy in the garden this August. Our practical tips and helpful hacks will make you a green thumbed gardener in no time Plant + Plant globe artichokes or divide existing plants and replant in well-fertilised soil. These gorgeous, silver-leaved perennial vegetables need plenty of space so don’t plant them too near […]
5 easy ways to prepare your garden for winter

5 easy ways to prepare your garden for winter

Easy ways to help your garden survive and remain inviting throughout winter As we prepare for the colder months, we need to make a few adjustments to ensure our garden will survive, thrive and remain useable throughout. Adbri Masonry brand ambassador and landscape expert Jason Hodges says a change in temperature doesn’t have to force […]
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Landscape your garden like an expert with these essential paving tips

Landscape your garden like an expert with these essential paving tips

Creating paved living areas and pathways in the garden requires careful planning. Check out Carol’s top tips for flat-out fabulous footpaths Landscape your garden like an expert with these essential paving tips Whether it’s a stable platform for outdoor living, an area for lounging by the pool or an all-weather route to the compost bin, […]
How to care for monstera plants so they thrive in your home

How to care for monstera plants so they thrive in your home

Known as one of the trendiest indoor plants, the lush and leafy monstera is the go-to choice for many an interior enthusiast. Here’s to how care for this stylish species How to care for monstera plants so they thrive in your home Monstera deliciosa, or Swiss cheese plant, is a firm favourite of many plant […]
6 garden makeovers that will give you major landscaping inspo

6 garden makeovers that will give you major landscaping inspo

Looking to renovate your outdoor area? Take a look at some of our favourite garden redesign for the ultimate landscaping inspiration 1. An overgrown St Heliers garden is now an incredible entertaining area  This garden underwent a total redesign. The original upward-sloping section was almost unusable, but this renovation has given the family more than […]
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Tend to your garden like an expert with this pruning guide and checklist

Tend to your garden like an expert with this pruning guide and checklist

From roses to shrubs and trees, our handy guide will help you to primp and prune your garden like a green-thumbed expert Your July gardening checklist with bonus pruning tips + Gardens are just as much about editing as planting – a shrub may grow wider than you planned or a tree might block out […]
Why you’ll want to fill your vases with heather this winter

Why you’ll want to fill your vases with heather this winter

Every dreary winter interior could do with a few bunches of heather for a fun burst colour. Here’s how you can add these long-lasting flowers to every room in your home Why you’ll want to fill your vases with heather this winter Erica is a bushy, bell-shaped floral with a woody stem, also known as […]
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How to tidy up your garden in July so it’s looking its best for summer

How to tidy up your garden in July so it’s looking its best for summer

Get in the garden this July and spruce up your space so you’re ready for summer. From pruning to planting this is your go-to gardening guide How to tidy up your garden in July so it’s looking its best for summer + The more you prune hydrangeas, the better the flowering next season. These shrubs can […]
See how this Taranaki garden was transformed into a lush idyll

See how this Taranaki garden was transformed into a lush idyll

This remarkable couple have turned a corner of Taranaki wilderness into a lush idyll with a uniquely Pacific flavour  See how this Taranaki garden was transformed into a lush idyll It’s been nearly 40 years since Ian and Elsie Lind first moved to their bush-covered section in the heart of New Plymouth. During that period […]
5 top garden trends according to Pinterest

5 top garden trends according to Pinterest

Your go-to guide for garden trends.  5 top garden trends according to Pinterest Garden trends are a little harder to navigate than interior or fashion trends. A quick scroll through Instagram will expose you to white-washed Scandi-inspired rooms accented with millennial pink, or the latest ‘it’ bag swinging from the arm of an influencer, while […]
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The co-founders of My Food Bag open the doors to their idyllic garden

The co-founders of My Food Bag open the doors to their idyllic garden

The three-level garden belonging to the dynamic duo behind My Food Bag is all about maximising fun for kids and adults The co-founders of My Food Bag open the doors to their idyllic garden When you’re a high-powered entrepreneurial couple, quality leisure time is priceless. For Cecilia and James Robinson, co-founders of My Food Bag […]
9 ways to make your outdoor area feel like a retreat in the colder months

9 ways to make your outdoor area feel like a retreat in the colder months

It might be chilly but that’s no reason to hole up indoors. Add a little heat, light and shelter to turn your outdoor living area into an open-air winter retreat 1. Night music  Listening to music on a comfortable outdoor sofa with a glass of wine must be one of the most relaxing pastimes there […]
This Auckland garden was transformed from a bare slope into a Zen oasis

This Auckland garden was transformed from a bare slope into a Zen oasis

A bare slope in Auckland was transformed into a calming Zen oasis with the clever use of rocks, boardwalks and Japanese planting This Auckland garden was transformed from a bare slope into a Zen oasis In 2004 when Siew Ng left Malaysia for New Zealand, her fondest hope was for a house with a garden. […]
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How to keep your garden looking great in the winter months

How to keep your garden looking great in the winter months

Take a look at this garden checklist to ensure you do all you can to keep your garden alive and healthy during the colder months. How to keep your garden looking great in the winter months + Winter is the best time to plant roses as they’re less likely to suffer any setbacks when in a […]
These are the best vegetables to plant in your garden in June

These are the best vegetables to plant in your garden in June

Don’t let the chilly temperature prevent you from getting in the garden! Use this simple gardening guide on what to harvest, plant and sow this June Plant + Before planting garlic, get rid of weeds like dock, make sure drainage is top notch and add plenty of compost. You’ll need to fertilise as it grows […]
Here’s how you can make your rented garden feel like home

Here’s how you can make your rented garden feel like home

A rented garden needn’t feel temporary. Here are some easy steps to making your outdoor spaces feel like home Here’s how you can make your rented garden feel like home No longer just a transitional phase before buying a place of your own, renting has now become the norm for many Kiwis. One of the […]
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How to use all the fallen leaves in your garden this autumn

How to use all the fallen leaves in your garden this autumn

From attracting tuis to dealing with leaves and transplanting roses, our gardening guide will show you what to prune and plant this autumn How to use all the fallen leaves in your garden this autumn + The naturalistic look is big in gardens right now so why not give it a try by planting spring […]
Sedum blossoms: the fluffy flowers that will add warm texture to your home

Sedum blossoms: the fluffy flowers that will add warm texture to your home

With its delicate flowers and vibrant colour, sedum are perfect for adding a visual burst of warmth into your home during the cooler months Sedum blossoms: the fluffy flowers that will add warm texture to your home A stalwart of perennial borders and meadows around the world, Sedum spectabile (reclassified as Hylotelephium spectabile) produces eye-catching […]
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The best vegetables to plant in your garden this May

The best vegetables to plant in your garden this May

When is comes to vegetables, May is all about your leafy greens. Use our quick gardening guide on what to harvest, plant and sow to make the most of this autumn season What you should harvest in May Keep picking lettuce leaves but if they start to turn bitter this means plants should be pulled […]
How to choose the best type of fence for your home

How to choose the best type of fence for your home

Creating a boundary that complements your home is key to completing an outdoor space. If you’re still on the fence about fencing, this stylish beginner’s guide is here to help How to choose the best type of fence for your home It’s one of the most dominant features in the garden, so your fence’s appearance […]
How the landscaping of this Christchurch new-build helps it feel established

How the landscaping of this Christchurch new-build helps it feel established

The landscaping plan for this new site in Christchurch took advantage of established neighbouring gardens to create leafy sight lines and a sense of privacy How the landscaping of this Christchurch new-build helps it feel established When Craig Wilson of Form Garden Architecture admired some mature trees next to a bare section in the Christchurch […]
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8 of the latest gardening trends from the NZ Flower & Garden Show

8 of the latest gardening trends from the NZ Flower & Garden Show

Visiting a flower show is one of the best ways to find garden inspiration. Here are our eight of our favourite design ideas from the New Zealand Flower & Garden Show that are sure to inspire your own outdoor living 1. Gimme shelter  Being mindful of the sun’s powerful rays is part and parcel of […]
Anthurium: Why you need these exotic flowers in your next arrangement

Anthurium: Why you need these exotic flowers in your next arrangement

Bold, sculptural and exotic, adding anthurium to your next flower arrangement is the perfect way to bring some spicy sizzle to the cooler autumn months Anthurium: Why you need these exotic flowers in your next arrangement Often known as flamingo flower, anthrium produce exotic spikes in white, pink, salmon or red. They’re mainly grown as […]
Weekend Gardening Guide: What to harvest and plant in April

Weekend Gardening Guide: What to harvest and plant in April

From practical tips to nutrition advice, this is more than just a gardening guide. Discover the best vegetables to harvest, plant and sow in your garden this April What to plant in April: Beetroot: Planting or sowing beetroot will give you double your money in terms of value. The root of this easy-to-grow vegetable is […]
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How to create the ultimate outdoor room that you can enjoy all year round

How to create the ultimate outdoor room that you can enjoy all year round

Whether you have a big backyard or a pint-sized patio, these clever tips will help you create an inviting and stylish outdoor space that you can comfortably enjoy year round How to create the ultimate outdoor room that you can enjoy all year round Outdoor living shouldn’t be restricted to the warmer months; with a […]
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Carnations: Everything you need to know about these frilly flowers

Carnations: Everything you need to know about these frilly flowers

Carnations have made a triumphant return and we couldn’t be happier! Use our easy care guide and make sure your next arrangement features these flowers Carnations: Everything you need to know about these frilly flowers While many of us associate carnations with bad 1980s tuxedo buttonholes, these delicate flowers are finally back in favour. Their […]
This overgrown St Heliers garden is now an incredible entertaining area

This overgrown St Heliers garden is now an incredible entertaining area

A total redesign of an upward-sloping and almost unusable section has given this family more than they ever expected – and pizza for all! This overgrown St Heliers garden is now an incredible entertaining area After six years of living in London, Brett and Sarah Dobson had one key priority when they went house hunting […]
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The best vegetables to plant in your garden in March

The best vegetables to plant in your garden in March

As the days starts to get shorter and autumn begins to roll around, now is the perfect time to get planting in the garden. Here are some gardening hacks to help you get started Plant Cabbage, spinach, silverbeet, broccoli, celery, lettuce and leek seedlings can be planted out into the garden in cooler areas. Wait […]
How a lifestyle block was transformed into the ultimate entertainers’ area

How a lifestyle block was transformed into the ultimate entertainers’ area

With their kids entering adulthood, a Nelson couple relished the chance to reimagine their garden as the ultimate grown-ups’ entertainment area How a lifestyle block was transformed into the ultimate entertainers’ area This family home on an eight-hectare lifestyle block in the rural Appleby Hills boasts views of the Waimea Inlet and, as it was […]
This overgrown Herne Bay garden was transformed into the ultimate oasis

This overgrown Herne Bay garden was transformed into the ultimate oasis

This lush garden in Auckland’s Herne Bay was prompted by an unlovely outlook and shaped by the stone structures and trees already on the site This overgrown Herne Bay garden was transformed into the ultimate oasis Dilapidated fences, a high block wall and a trampoline – not exactly the kind of garden outlook most of […]
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10 stylish ways to organise your outdoor garden area

10 stylish ways to organise your outdoor garden area

Maximise every inch of your garden with astute storage and inventive use of spare spaces. Get your garden decluttered and organised with these tips 10 stylish ways to organise your outdoor garden area There’s no getting around the fact that our gardens are getting smaller. Unfortunately, the amount of stuff we need to keep outdoors […]
9 easy ways to turn your garden into the ultimate outdoor living space

9 easy ways to turn your garden into the ultimate outdoor living space

Whether you have a small patio or large backyard, these nine ideas make it easy to transform your garden from overlooked eyesore to open-air living space 1. Get outside more If you’re lucky enough to have an outdoor space, no matter how petite, make it your aim to use it more this year. Do whatever […]
Dahlias: Everything you need to know about our favourite retro flower

Dahlias: Everything you need to know about our favourite retro flower

The retro charm of dahlias make them the perfect way to add a spiky burst of colour to your home. Here’s why these low-maintenance flowers are our pick for February Dahlias: Everything you need to know about our favourite retro flower Why are dahlias such a favourite in the late-summer garden? Could it be because they […]
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