Key things to consider up front
Before starting any work, get to know your waterway. Observe your stream or river. What do you see? Take note of its features, such as plants, water colour, water flow, aquatic life, erosion and bank steepness. Getting to know your waterway will help you identify issues and focus your restoration efforts.
The three key stages of your project
In your planting plan, include the three key stages of your project: site prep, planting and maintenance. Factor in time and budget for each stage.
Are there weed or pest and predator threats or challenges? What site prep needs to be done before you can plant?
Include a plan to check on and maintain plants for at least 2-3 years. Who will maintain the plants and when? Put key maintenance dates in the diary. Don't underestimate maintenance because it can be a lot of work!
Native bush will be healthiest with long-term predator control. Include this in your maintenance plan.
Decide what to plant and where
- Plants should be native and eco-sourced Eco-sourcing is collecting seeds close to where they are to be planted. . Eco-sourced plants are adapted to their local area and are more resilient to local conditions. They have local genetic variations that are important to protect.
- Put the right plant in the right place. Break your planting site into wet and dry zones. Some plants love having wet roots. Others prefer drier soil conditions.
- Consider the orientation of your stream. One side may need to be more densely planted to effectively shade the waterway.
- Consider the density of plantings. Higher densities often result in lower maintenance costs.
- Regional councils and local nurseries can provide great info on the best plants for your area.
- Make sure to order your plants in advance so they are ready in time.
Regionally specific planting guides and tools
- Trees that Count has compiled a great list of planting guides by region
- DairyNZ has developed great resources and region-specific planting guides
Planning what to plant
- Trees that Count has compiled a list of nurseries that may be helpful when eco-sourcing your plants.
- Check out these resources to learn more about eco-sourcing and seed collection: ecosource seeds and this calendar for seed collection.
Make an affordable start
The five most commonly used waterway restoration plants are harakeke/flax, mānuka, kānuka, karamu/Coprosma robusta and tī kōuka/cabbage tree. These plants are all hardy pioneer species Pioneer species are those able to grow first at a site. They are able to cope with the drier, hotter conditions in open areas. . Ti kōuka is good for stream bank stability, and harakeke is good in flood prone areas.
If there is existing bush in the area, birds will bring in seeds of other species to increase the plant diversity of your project. You can also add in additional diversity later when you have more funding.
Wildlife-friendly plant ideas
- Predator Free NZ: If our native birds were gardeners what would they plant?
- Forest and Bird: How to create a lizard friendly garden