Proper approach to plant propagation

The sharp end of garden rejuvenation will be the focus of a free workshop at Hollard Gardens, Kaponga, on Sunday (8 May) – and participants need to bring their own blade.

The workshop on propagating ornamental plants will be led by horticulturalist Paul Landers. He will cover methods and tips on taking cuttings, dividing plants and other propagation methods suitable for this time of year.

“Autumn is the time to rejuvenate the garden so this workshop is timely for home gardeners,” says the Taranaki Regional Council’s Regional Gardens Manager, Greg Rine.

“It will be hands-on, too, so participants need to bring their own sharp scissors or knife, and any plants from home they want to propagate from and/or share with others.”

Mr Rine says a workshop bonus will be an opportunity to take home one or two cuttings of some unusual exotics or rare and endangered native plants from the internationally recognised collection at Hollard Gardens. “Normally, no one can take a scrap of material from the gardens, so this is a unique chance.”

Sunday’s workshop, which runs from 2pm to 4pm, is part of a year-round programme of free public events at Hollard Gardens, as well as Pukeiti and Tupare, two other heritage properties owned and managed by the Taranaki Regional Council on behalf of the people of the region.