Tree pruning generates a lot of organic material, but instead of sending it to the landfill, you can put it to good use in your garden and landscape. Wood chips and mulch not only help plants thrive but also improve soil health and reduce maintenance needs.

Benefits of Using Wood Chips & Mulch

✅ Moisture Retention – Helps soil retain water, reducing the need for frequent watering.
✅ Weed Suppression – Blocks sunlight, preventing weed growth.
✅ Temperature Regulation – Keeps soil cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
✅ Soil Health Improvement – Breaks down over time, adding nutrients to the soil.
✅ Erosion Control – Protects soil from being washed away by wind or heavy rain.

Ways to Use Wood Chips & Mulch in Your Garden

1. Garden Mulch

Spread a 5–10cm layer of wood chips around trees, shrubs, and garden beds to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Avoid piling mulch against tree trunks (this can cause rot).

2. Pathways & Walkways

Wood chips make excellent, natural-looking paths. Simply lay them over a weed mat or directly on compacted soil. Over time, they break down, improving soil quality.

3. Composting Material

Mix wood chips with green waste (like grass clippings and food scraps) to create a well-balanced compost. This speeds up decomposition and enriches the soil.

4. Raised Garden Beds

Use wood chips at the base of raised garden beds to improve drainage. As they decompose they provide potential soil enrichment, acting as a “slow” release fertilizer for the plants/veggies as it creates a nutritious environment for them.

5. Livestock Bedding

Wood chips can be used as bedding for animals like chickens and horses, absorbing moisture and reducing odours.

Choosing the Right Wood Chips

Not all wood chips are the same. Here’s what to consider:
✔ Hardwood chips – Last longer and are great for pathways.
✔ Softwood chips (pine, cedar, etc.) – Decompose faster and work well as mulch.
✔ Fresh vs. aged chips – Fresh chips are best for pathways, while aged chips are better for garden use.

Instead of wasting wood chips from tree pruning, put them to work! Whether in the garden, for livestock bedding, or as compost, these natural materials offer plenty of benefits.

Need wood chips? Contact us – we might have some available from our latest pruning jobs!

Discover some of the best trees for autumn colours.

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, New Zealand’s landscapes transform into a breath taking display of reds, oranges, yellows, and purples. If you love the rich hues of autumn and want to enjoy them in your own garden or local area, here are 10 trees that bring spectacular colour to the season.

1. Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum)

One of the most well-loved trees for autumn colour, Japanese Maples are prized for their delicate, lacy leaves that turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow. They are perfect for smaller gardens and do well in sheltered spots with dappled sunlight.

2. Liquidambar (Liquidambar styraciflua)

Also known as Sweetgum, this tall and striking tree produces a kaleidoscope of autumn shades, including deep reds, purples, and oranges. Its star-shaped leaves and sturdy form make it a standout feature in parks and large gardens.

3. Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba)

A truly unique tree, the Ginkgo has fan-shaped leaves that turn a stunning golden yellow in autumn before carpeting the ground in a glowing display. These trees are ancient, resilient, and a perfect choice for those who love a bright burst of colour.

4. Copper Beech (Fagus sylvatica ‘Purpurea’)

This elegant tree is known for its deep purple leaves in summer, which transform into a rich copper-red in autumn. Its smooth, silvery-grey bark provides an attractive contrast year-round. Gorgeous choice for floral work.

5. Red Oak (Quercus rubra)

A strong and stately tree, the Red Oak offers breathtaking crimson-red foliage in autumn. It’s a great choice for larger landscapes and provides excellent shade in the summer months.

6. Silver Birch (Betula pendula)

With its striking white bark and delicate, fluttering leaves, the Silver Birch turns a brilliant golden yellow in autumn. It’s perfect for adding elegance and lightness to a garden.

7. Claret Ash (Fraxinus angustifolia ‘Raywood’)

True to its name, the Claret Ash delivers deep burgundy-red foliage in autumn, making it a standout feature in any landscape. Its symmetrical growth and moderate size make it an excellent street or garden tree.

8. Tupelo (Nyssa sylvatica)

A lesser-known but spectacular tree, the Tupelo displays a blend of bright reds, oranges, yellows, and deep purples in autumn. It thrives in wetter conditions, making it a great choice for areas with good moisture.

9. Chinese Pistachio (Pistacia chinensis)

A tough and drought-resistant tree, the Chinese Pistachio offers an impressive display of fiery red, orange, and yellow hues in autumn. It’s ideal for warmer regions and is often planted in urban settings.

10. Scarlet Oak (Quercus coccinea)

As its name suggests, the Scarlet Oak bursts into brilliant red in autumn, with its vibrant foliage lingering longer than many other species. It’s a fantastic shade tree with year-round appeal.

Bringing Autumn Colour to Your Garden

Whether you want a showpiece tree for your backyard or a row of trees for a striking avenue, these species offer some of the best autumn colours in New Zealand. Consider your climate, space, and soil conditions when selecting the best trees for autumn colours, and enjoy the magic of autumn for years to come.

Need expert care to keep your trees looking their best?

As winter comes to an end, it’s the perfect time to start planning for spring planting. Whether you’re looking to add new trees to your landscape or enhance your existing garden, thoughtful preparation during the final weeks of winter can set you up for success. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you prepare for a fruitful spring planting season.

1. Assess Your Landscape

Begin by evaluating your landscape to determine the best locations for new trees. Consider factors such as soil quality, sunlight exposure, drainage, and space availability. Think about the long-term growth of the trees and how they’ll complement your existing landscape design.

2. Choose the Right Tree Species

Selecting the right tree species is crucial for successful planting. Research which trees thrive in your local climate and soil conditions. Consider factors like mature size, growth rate, and maintenance needs. Native species are often the best choice, as they’re adapted to your environment and require less care.

3. Plan for Spacing and Placement

Proper spacing is vital to ensure your trees have room to grow without competing for resources. Plan for the mature size of each tree, taking into account the spread of the canopy and root system. Avoid planting too close to structures, power lines, or other trees to prevent future issues.

4. Prepare the Soil

Healthy soil is the foundation of strong tree growth. Test your soil’s pH and nutrient levels, and amend it as needed. Incorporate organic matter, such as compost, to improve soil structure and fertility. If your soil is compacted, consider aerating it to enhance root growth and water infiltration.

5. Stock Up on Supplies

Gather all the necessary supplies ahead of time, so you’re ready to plant when the weather warms up. This includes quality tree saplings, mulch, stakes, ties, and any tools you might need, such as shovels, pruners, and watering equipment. Having everything on hand will make the planting process smoother.

6. Schedule Your Planting Day

Timing is key when it comes to tree planting. Aim to plant your trees in early spring, once the ground has thawed and before the heat of summer sets in. This gives your trees the best chance to establish roots and adapt to their new environment. Keep an eye on the weather forecast to avoid planting during late frosts or heavy rains.

7. Consider Professional Help

If you’re unsure about the best planting practices or need help with larger trees, consider hiring a professional arborist. They can provide expert advice on species selection, site preparation, and planting techniques. An arborist can also assist with ongoing care, ensuring your trees remain healthy as they grow.

8. Create a Maintenance Plan

Once your trees are planted, a good maintenance plan is essential. This should include regular watering, mulching, and fertilizing as needed. Monitor your trees for signs of stress or disease, and address any issues promptly. Proper care in the early stages will pay off with strong, healthy trees for years to come.

9. Think Long-Term

Remember that tree planting is an investment in the future of your landscape. Plan for the long-term care and growth of your trees, considering how they’ll fit into your property as they mature. A well-thought-out planting plan will enhance the beauty, value, and sustainability of your landscape for generations.

By starting your planning in the final weeks of winter, you’ll be well-prepared for a successful spring planting season. With careful consideration and proper care, your new trees will thrive, adding beauty and environmental benefits to your property for years to come.

Contact our qualified arborists to help with your planting preparation and decision making.

Effective Winter Pruning Techniques

1. Assess the Tree’s Needs

Before you start pruning, assess the tree’s structure and health. Identify dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Determine which branches need removal to improve the tree’s shape and balance. Planning your cuts ensures you don’t remove more than necessary, maintaining the tree’s health. If you are unsure of which branches need pruning for the tree’s best health and shape, consult one of our arborists for advice and assurance. Book your quote visit today.

2. Use the Right Tools

Using the correct tools and knowing how to handle them is crucial for effective and safe pruning.

• Ensure your pruning tools are sharp and clean. Dull tools can create ragged cuts that are harder for the tree to heal, while clean tools help prevent the spread of diseases. Make sure you are trained and competent to use your tools. The basic tools include:
  • Pruning Shears: For small branches.
  • Loppers: For medium-sized branches.
  • Pruning Saw: For larger branches.
• Take the time to learn and understand how each tool works. Practice on smaller branches to build confidence. Proper handling avoids injury and ensures clean, beneficial cuts.
• Wear the correct safety gear such as gloves and glasses when necessary. Ensure a safe environment around the tree. If needed, work with a partner who can help spot hazards.

3. Make Proper Cuts

• Cut at the Branch Collar: The branch collar is the swelling where the branch meets the trunk. Cutting just outside this area helps the tree heal more efficiently.
• Avoid Stub Cuts: Do not leave a stub behind when removing a branch; this can become a gateway for pests and diseases.

4. Thin and Shape

• Thinning: Remove selected branches to improve light penetration and air circulation. This is especially useful for fruit trees and ornamental trees.
• Shaping: Focus on maintaining a natural shape while removing any crossing or rubbing branches that can cause damage over time.

5. Remove Suckers and Water Sprouts

• Suckers: These are vigorous shoots that grow from the base of the tree. They can sap energy from the main structure and should be removed.
• Water Sprouts: These are upright shoots that grow from the trunk or branches. They should be pruned away to maintain the tree’s shape and strength.

Which Trees Benefit Most from Winter Pruning?

1. Deciduous Trees

Deciduous trees, like maples, oaks, and birches, benefit greatly from winter pruning. They are in full dormancy, and the absence of leaves makes it easier to see and address structural issues.

2. Fruit Trees

Pruning fruit trees like apple, pear, and cherry in winter helps manage their shape, remove diseased wood, and encourage a robust fruit-bearing season in spring and summer.

3. Shade Trees

Shade trees, including ash, elm, and sycamore, also benefit from winter pruning. It helps maintain their shape and health, ensuring they continue to provide ample shade and aesthetic value.

4. Ornamental Trees

Ornamental trees such as crabapples and dogwoods can be pruned in winter to enhance their flowering and overall appearance in the growing season.

Winter pruning is a strategic approach to tree care that offers significant benefits for the health and appearance of your trees. By reducing stress, improving visibility, and minimizing the risk of disease, winter becomes the ideal time to shape your trees effectively. Employing the right techniques ensures that your trees will not only survive the cold months but also thrive in the spring, contributing to a beautiful and healthy landscape.

Still unsure how your trees need pruning? Want an expert to take care of it? Reach out to our arborists today.