Confering on conifers

Back in the 1970s, conifers featured in the typical Kiwi garden as squat golden blobs parked in red scoria mulch. But a free workshop in New Plymouth on Sunday (29 April) will demonstrate that they have much more to offer.

The workshop, at Tupare on Mangorei Rd from 2pm to 4pm, will include a tour of the stately property to look at different examples of conifers, from graceful and tall trees to useful and subtle groundcover plants.

Arborist Richard Lambert, conifer specialist Pip McVicar and Tupare Manager Mitch Graham will also offer tips and advice on selecting and growing conifers in the home garden, and the different ways they can be used.

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