Q&A

MOST SIGNIFICANT PLANT IN THE GARDEN: Our 200-year-old tōtara tree. FAVOURITE NEW PLANTS:

The mayapple Podophyllum

‘Kaleidoscope’ which has a beautiful flower that hangs under its leaves and Aristolochia ringens,

a perennial twining plant. FAVOURITE PLANT COMBINATION: An ‘Awanui’ cherry tree underplanted with burgundy flax.

BEST TIP FOR GARDENERS:

Never buy on impulse or go to a garden centre without a list. If you see something that takes your fancy, don’t buy it straight away. Take a photo. Come home and make sure it’s right for the space. MOST-USED TOOL: My handmade trolley that goes behind my ride-on to carry a wool fadge [sack] for weeds and all my tools needed for the day. LEAST FAVOURITE GARDEN JOB: Working with hoses –

I hate them!

THE THING I’VE LEARNED ABOUT GARDENING IS:

It’s very therapeutic.

BIGGEST GARDENING MISTAKE: Planting things too close together.

I LOVE THIS PART OF NEW ZEALAND BECAUSE: We are incredibly fortunate, with our beautiful mountains, rivers and rolling hills.

FAVOURITE SEASON: Spring, when everything starts to look lush and green.

IS THE GARDEN OPEN TO THE PUBLIC: Yes, daily from 10am to 3pm, September to May. See bradleysgarden.co.nz.