Where to start with a bare lifestyle block

Buying a bare lifestyle block often means initial funds and focus are on getting a house built. But if you really want to make the most of a rural setting then you need to think about landscaping from day one. 

Have A Plan

You wouldn't build a house with no plan and the same goes for the outside area.

"I always ask people about the grand plan," says Christchurch-based, landscape designer Luke Robertson. "How long do you plan on being there? Do you want shelter belts around the whole property or just the house and garden? Where will your paddocks be? Do you want something low maintenance or do you love gardening?"

It can also be worth having a chat with more established neighbours – what have they planted? What does well in the soil in your area? Where does the prevailing wind come from? "Local knowledge is really important," says Robertson.

Water Water Water

Whatever you plant, you're going to need water and anyone who has planted out a bare block will tell you – this is a top priority.

Ensure you have a supply to the boundary and then consider where you need to get that water to.

Sure, if it's early days and you only have a handful of trees planted you may be able to manage just dragging a hose around. But a good drip line set up can save you both time and effort in the long run and works perfectly for shelter belts.

Shelter Belts

And those shelter belts should be first in.

"I regularly find that people want to plant pretty stuff straightaway but it should really wait. You need some wind protection first," says Robertson.

A good rule of thumb when planning shelter belts is that they typically give wind protection for approximately 10 times their own height. So, a 10-metre high tree will provide protection for 100 metres, albeit the degree of protection reduces over the 100 metres.

As for what trees to plant – consider your soil and the conditions. Macrocarpas are a popular, fast-growing option but there are plenty of deciduous trees that will work well too, like poplars and alders says Robertson.

And don't feel you just have to throw in a line of trees. A shelter belt can be layered rows of different tree varieties at different heights and densities – blending aesthetics and function.

If you're sheltering paddocks that will ultimately have stock – then steer clear of anything that may be toxic should those cows fancy a nibble.

All The Pretty Plants

When it comes to the garden proper – be realistic about what you want.

A cottage garden maybe charming but it can also be very high maintenance and if you don't have time to deadhead your roses every weekend you may be better off going for something more robust like New Zealand natives.

Planting the wrong thing at the wrong time, or too early, can be costly both in terms of money and labour. So do your research if you have a particular plant that you must have.

"Generally autumn is a really good time to plant trees and shrubs as the soil is still warm and they will get a longer period of consistent moisture," says Robertson.

Keeping It Affordable

Landscaping can be expensive but there are lots of ways of massaging the budget says Robertson. While bigger, mature trees are expensive their smaller, younger versions are much more affordable and often adapt better to planting out.

New Zealand natives such as pittosporums and tussocks are a good budget option.

And lastly, buy when your local plant nursery has a sale. You can make great savings and if you take a targeted shopping list with you – you can also avoid costly impulse buys.