Plant, seed and produce swap

Over the last 25 years, Howard has been establishing ‘Howood Hills’ in Horokiwi as time has permitted. Much of his energy has been put into the re-establishment and regeneration of the native bush, however he also has a garden orchard. The property is very challenging and is difficult to get anything to grow and thrive. It was originally a milking goat farm and had very few trees on it (other than pine trees) and no undergrowth due to goats and massive possum, rat and mice predation.
 

At the beginning, there was no real topsoil and it is still prone to droughts, even in winter. It is also in the middle of an extreme wind zone and suffered extensive damage in the storm of 2013. Due to a severe rabbit infestation in the whole area and the return of possums, getting seedlings established is difficult and vegetables need protective covering and fencing year round.
 

Despite these challenges, Howard has made an impressive impact on the regeneration of the hills back into native forest. He has over 70 species of trees plus some firewood trees. There are also a few exotic trees including rhododendrons, maples, strawberry trees, magnolias and oaks. The more interesting wildlife includes falcons, kereru, ruru, geckos (barking and common), skinks, weta, eels and koura.
 

With the challenges faced with establishing the orchard, Howard is keen to get some practical advice on how to best establish the orchard, and find out why some of the fruit and nut trees have been so unproductive.

Plant, seed and produce swap

Please package and label your seeds. 

Also note on the packet:

 the nature of the seed (flower, vegetable, fruit, tree) at the top. Seeds will be sorted accordingly on the table
 Under that, put the name of the seeds and any special growing instructions. Please also label any plants.
 

Please bring:

 Plants, seeds or produce to swap
 Your own lunch
 Mug, drink (tea and coffee will be provided)
 Gumboots or good walking boots, warm clothing/jacket
 There will be some seating available but to be sure, you may like to bring your own seat.
 

Programme (approx timing):

 10.30 – 10.45am: Arrival and check in.
 10.45am: Welcome and walk around the garden and orchard
 11. 45am: Plant, seed and produce swap
 12pm: Lunch
 1pm: Walk along the tracks to look at the native tree restoration work that Howard has undertaken over the years.

The property is not suitable for dogs – there are ducklings and protective mother ducks.