At Restore Native, growing native trees is a journey, and we want to share a step in that journey with you. After collecting and sowing the seeds, the next big step is nurturing our little tree babies in our greenhouse. Here, they get the attention they need to grow into strong, resilient plants ready to make an impact on New Zealand’s environment.
The Greenhouse Stage: Where Trees Start to Thrive
Once the seeds are sown, they are placed in our greenhouses. This is where the magic happens. It’s not fully under glass—this setup allows the trees to grow in the natural conditions of the Waikato environment. We make sure that the seedlings aren’t coddled but instead are gradually hardened off to adapt to the outdoor elements they’ll face once planted. This method helps produce strong, hardy trees that can thrive in their new homes.
Here, you'll find species like swamp grass or carrot trees, carefully grown in trays. This stage gives us full control over their growth and health, ensuring we can monitor and adjust the conditions as needed.
Growing with Care for Future Generations
Once the trees reach a certain size in the greenhouse, they are potted up and moved to our nursery, where they grow for another year or two. During this time, they continue to develop, becoming taller and more established. Only then are they ready to be planted out on farms and in other landscapes throughout the North Island.
By this stage, they’ve been nurtured to thrive in New Zealand’s diverse ecosystems, ensuring they’re well-equipped for the next phase of their journey in the wild.
Want to Know More?
If you’re curious about how we grow our trees and would like to know which trees might be best for your project, don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’re always happy to talk trees and help you find the right plants for your needs.
