#nativeplanting

Natural Gardens creates thoughtful, beautiful outdoor spaces that feel authentic and easy to live with. Based in Devonport, our experienced team designs and builds gardens that reflect your personality, work with your site conditions and require sensible ongoing care. We focus on natural planting styles, sustainable materials and layouts that make the most of light, views and privacy.

Every project starts with listening. We visit your property, discuss how you use the space, what you love about your garden now and what frustrates you. From there we develop a clear concept plan showing proposed planting, hard landscaping, seating areas, pathways and any features such as water elements, lighting or vegetable gardens. We present realistic visualisations and a detailed cost breakdown so you know exactly what to expect.

Our designs often feature native and eco-friendly plants chosen for resilience in Auckland's coastal and subtropical climate. We incorporate low-water species, hardy perennials, structural trees and shrubs that provide year-round interest without constant attention. Where possible we use permeable surfaces, rainwater harvesting, composting areas and mulching to support soil health and reduce maintenance needs.

We handle the full process from initial design through to construction. Our skilled team builds retaining walls, decks, paths, raised beds, irrigation systems and outdoor lighting, then plants with care to ensure healthy establishment. We source quality materials locally where we can and work with trusted suppliers for plants, soils, gravels and timber.

Clients value our calm, organised approach and the way we transform ordinary sections into welcoming, functional gardens that feel like an extension of the home. Whether refreshing a tired backyard, designing a new family garden with play space and entertaining areas, creating a low-maintenance coastal garden, or restoring a period property with sympathetic planting, we deliver results that look good immediately and improve with time.

With consistent five-star feedback, customers appreciate our clear communication, realistic timelines, attention to detail and the genuine pride we take in every finished garden. We remain available after completion for advice on plant care, seasonal adjustments or minor tweaks.

In a world where biodiversity is increasingly threatened, every little action to support our ecosystems counts. One powerful way to make a positive impact is by planting flowers that not only beautify our surroundings but also serve as vital resources for insects and other creatures. As we delve into the realm of gardening, let's explore some of the best flowers to plant to foster a thriving ecosystem.

Understanding the Importance of Planting for Insects

Insects play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. They pollinate plants, decompose organic matter, and serve as a vital food source for various animals. However, habitat loss and pesticide use have led to a decline in insect populations worldwide. By choosing the right flowers for our gardens, we can provide essential resources for these beneficial insects, helping to sustain their populations and support overall biodiversity.

Top Flowers for Supporting Insects and the Environment

Lavender: Loved for its fragrant blooms and drought tolerance, lavender is a favourite among gardeners and insects alike. Bees are particularly drawn to its nectar-rich flowers, making it a valuable plant for pollinator gardens. Additionally, its aromatic foliage repels pests like mosquitoes and moths.

Sunflowers: With their towering stems and vibrant blooms, sunflowers are not only a sight to behold but also a magnet for pollinators. Bees, butterflies, and even birds flock to these cheerful flowers to collect nectar and seeds. Opt for native varieties to provide the most benefit to local wildlife.

Wild Bergamot (Bee Balm): As the name suggests, bee balm is a bee favourite, attracting a variety of pollinators with its colourful blooms. This native perennial not only adds beauty to the garden but also provides a valuable food source for bees and butterflies throughout the summer months.

Goldenrod: Often unfairly blamed for causing allergies (it's actually ragweed that's the culprit), goldenrod is a powerhouse of nectar for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Its bright yellow flowers light up the late summer and early fall landscape while supporting diverse insect populations.

Echinacea (Coneflowers): Coneflowers, with their distinctive spiky centers and daisy-like petals, are not only visually striking but also highly attractive to bees and butterflies. Their sturdy stems and long-lasting blooms make them a low-maintenance addition to any garden.

Milkweed: No list of insect-friendly flowers would be complete without milkweed. As the sole host plant for monarch butterfly larvae, milkweed is essential for supporting declining monarch populations. Planting milkweed provides a critical habitat for monarchs to lay their eggs and nourishes caterpillars as they undergo metamorphosis.

Yarrow: Yarrow's flat-topped clusters of tiny flowers are a favourite among pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and beneficial wasps. This drought-tolerant perennial is easy to grow and adds a delicate beauty to gardens while supporting local insect populations.

Tips for Creating an Insect-Friendly Garden

Choose Native Plants: Native plants are adapted to the local environment and provide the best resources for native insects. Research native species in your area and incorporate them into your garden.

Plant a Variety of Flowers: Different insects have different preferences, so aim for a diverse selection of flowers that bloom at different times throughout the growing season. This ensures a steady supply of nectar and pollen for pollinators.

Avoid Pesticides: Pesticides can harm beneficial insects along with pests. Instead of relying on chemicals, practice natural pest control methods and encourage a healthy balance of predators and prey in your garden.

Provide Shelter and Water: In addition to flowers, consider including other elements in your garden, such as shrubs, trees, and water features, to provide shelter, nesting sites, and sources of hydration for insects.