Learn how to put weeds to work

When is a weed not a weed? When you learn how it can be a useful plant.

That’s the essence of a free public workshop to be held at Hollard Gardens, Kaponga, on Sunday (11 December), when participants will learn how to turn the nature of some weeds to their advantage.

“Weeds are defined as plants that are not valued where they are, and they often grow vigorously,” says the Taranaki Regional Council’s Regional Gardens Manager, Greg Rine. “But some weeds are useful for soil conditioning, or attracting beneficial wildlife, or even for adding flavour and nutrition to your dinner.”

The workshop runs from 2pm to 4pm and participants are welcome to bring samples of weeds for identification – leaving seed heads at home.

The workshop will also be the last chance to collect free seed (donated by Egmont Seeds) for the Hollard Gardens Harvest Festival veggie contest to be held on Taranaki Anniversary Day next year.

Sunday’s workshop is part of a year-round programme of free events at Hollard Gardens, Pukeiti and Tupare, the three heritage gardens owned and managed by the Taranaki Regional Council on behalf of the people of the region.

For more information, see www.hollardgardens.info, www.pukeiti.org.nz and www.tupare.info. Social media users can also follow the Regional Gardens on Facebook (TaranakiRegionalGardens)and Twitter (@TaranakiRG).