SUGGESTED PLANTING PLAN

1 FOOD SCREEN

Plant an edible hedge, trimming plants according to the requirements of the species selected. If necessary choose two or more varieties of the species to ensure the best pollination rates.

2 ON THE WALL

Espalier more fruit trees (eg apple, pear, crab apple, apricot) or train fruiting climbers (eg blackberry, passionfruit, boysenberry) on a support against sunny walls to add more interest to the garden and soften the house.

3 FOOD FOREST

Grow berries, herbs and other bee and pollinator attractants plus companion plants that will deter pests and add nutrients to the soil in beds around house and under fruit trees.

4 STEP UP

Make a stepping stone path from existing pavers or local stone to connect southwest area to other parts of the garden; dig out ground so they are flush with lawn. Feed lawn and sprinkle new grass seed to reinvigorate.

5 ON THE EDGE

Plant low edging species to define beds as well as attract pollinators.

6 SHELTER BELT

Remove macrocarpa and fertilise soil with lots of organic matter to replace nutrients lost over the years to the large trees. Plant a screen of smaller trees; trim regularly to maximise sunlight into the garden and keep foliage where it is most useful.