Natural Living Talk

Boysenberries are one of those classic New Zealand summer treasures—big, juicy, sweet-tart berries that thrive in our climate and reward even a small backyard with incredible harvests. Whether you’re growing on a lifestyle block or tucking a row along a fence in town, boysenberries are one of the easiest and most productive berries you can grow. Here’s how to plant, care for, and enjoy this generous berry bush in your NZ garden. 🌱 Why Grow Boysenberries? Huge yields  from j

Grow healthier plants, boost your harvests, and create a resilient, chemical-free garden . Companion planting is one of the oldest gardening traditions — pairing certain plants together so they support each other. In New Zealand’s unique climate, where we garden through four seasons, sudden cold snaps, and a huge range of pests (whitefly, aphids, cabbage butterflies, psyllids, slugs, and more), companion planting becomes an incredibly useful tool. Whether you grow in pots, ra

Perfect for small gardens, side yards, patios, and cool NZ climates Not every gardener has a sun-soaked backyard — and that’s perfectly fine. Many edible plants actually prefer cooler conditions and grow just as well (or better!) in partial shade . Whether your garden gets morning light only, dappled shade under trees, or just a few hours of sunshine a day, you can still grow a thriving harvest. Here are 12 easy vegetables (and herbs)  from your list that grow beautifully in

If you’re looking for a crop that’s delicious, reliable, and incredibly fast to grow, radishes are your new best friend. They’re one of the easiest vegetables for beginners, a great way to fill gaps between slow-growing crops, and a surprisingly versatile addition to the kitchen. Whether eaten fresh, pickled, roasted, or tossed into salads, radishes add a crisp, peppery freshness that brightens any meal. Let’s dive into how to grow them, what varieties to try, how to pair the

Perfect for Small Gardens, Raised Beds & New Zealand Backyards Starting a garden shouldn’t feel complicated — especially when you’re just beginning. The trick is to choose crops that are easy to grow, forgiving, space-efficient , and suited to New Zealand’s climate. These 20 favourites tick every box and are ideal for small gardens, raised beds, and even patio-friendly spaces. Home-Grown Vegetables - Are The Best! Growing your own vegetables at home is one of the simplest way