It may be tempting to visit the nearest large-box store and grab anything available on the shelves when planning your garden. However, when Kiwi gardeners invest in purchasing a local supplier, it is not only that you have a real attachment to the land, but it also has benefits that go far beyond the borders of your own backyard.
An inspirational example is The Plant Company, a business founded on its passion for plants and commitment to quality. The nursery was initially dedicated to creative houseplants, and its development highlights the importance of committed cultivators in the New Zealand horticulture sector, which is characterized by experience, attentiveness, and local knowledge that make the country’s nursery industry unique.
Strengthening Our Local Economy and Community
By visiting a local nursery, you are doing more than just greening up your garden; you are also helping to green up your community. By purchasing locally, you are not only supporting the small businesses but also contributing to the creation of jobs right here in Aotearoa. It can be a way to maintain the vibrancy and strength of our communities, one plant at a time.
Healthier Plants Tailored to Your Patch
Local nurseries grow plants that are adapted to Ki conditions, i.e., plants that are already used to our particular weather and soil. This would enable them to flourish in your garden without causing much commotion, using minimal water, and requiring little to no chemicals.
You will also find a wonderful selection of native plants, which are perfect for:
- Preserving local biodiversity and ecological history
- Creating natural living and feeding areas for native birds and insects.
- More specifically, developing a landscape that is distinctly and uniquely New Zealand.
Caring for Our Whenua (Land)
Local shopping is also a victory for the environment. You are making your garden smaller by growing food closer to your house, thereby reducing the carbon footprint of your garden. Additionally, the use of locally sourced native flora, purposely grown using seeds collected within your local ecological environment, helps preserve the genetic integrity of local plants and promotes healthier ecosystems.
Unbeatable Expertise on Your Doorstep
This is probably the most significant advantage of all, as you will receive expert advice. Local nursery experts are ardent nursery gardeners themselves and have an arsenal of knowledge on what works best in your particular region. They can provide you with individualised hints that will enable your garden to thrive and save you time, money, and disappointments.
Ultimately, the decision to purchase at a local nursery is a straightforward one with significant incentives. It is not only a purchase of a plant, but an investment in your neighbourhood, shaping the environment, and establishing your garden to prosper. All you need is a little step to make a big difference.
Final Thoughts
When you purchase directly from local nurseries, such as The Plant Company, each dollar and each flower plays a role in creating a healthier and happier New Zealand – starting with your very own garden. Investing in these nurseries is a long-term win-win, in terms of the beauty of the landscapes, the environment, and all the people making the country their home.