LET’S START AT THE VERY BEGINNING

We started from scratch four years ago and are not so young any more. We have 12 acres – about two in grass/lawn and garden, a work in progress. I like lots of colour so have planted a variety of camellia, hibiscus, roses and wild flowers. I have a garden house for gardening stuff, a greenhouse and a fenced rabbit-proof vegetable garden.

My advice to others starting out is to have a plan, whether in your head or on paper. There’s a lot of trial and error.

Don’t be afraid to spend more for larger and quality plants. A lot of our trees come from North Harbour Big Tree Co and my roses always from Matthews – always top quality and happy to offer advice.

Take it one step at a time and don’t sweat the small stuff.

I joined Te Atatu Floral and Garden Circle in 2002 and learned heaps from the older gardeners and visited lots of beautiful gardens full of ideas.

I wouldn’t be without my ride-on mower with its little trailer and tow-behind sprayer.

Diane Lucca, Mangawhai Heads