Garden makeover
A high, windy property in Lower Hutt needs some serious protection from the elements. Carol recommends a layered approach
Carol’s clever planting plan aims to protect a hilltop property from the elements
Dear Carol
We have lived on a two-hectare lifestyle block in Kelson, Lower Hutt, for the past six years. We have stunning views of Wellington Harbour and Belmont Regional Park, and enjoy the isolation from neighbours and traffic. But it’s an extremely windy spot and our backyard is in the direct path of the prevailing northerly, which can be frequent and harsh (wooden garden benches often topple over). Our backyard is less exposed to southerlies.
The land was formerly used to farm livestock and the clay soil is rife with gorse and weeds. Four years ago we planted griselinia to try to create a wind barrier. This has failed to grow and has possibly been grazed by rabbits. For our three young children I would love a fun and inviting garden next to our vege patch and sandpit, with flowers and a lawn, as well as plants that are hardy and wind-tolerant.
Tracey Lowther, Lower Hutt