On a farm near Tadmor, the Biodiversity and Restoration Group of MCC recently hosted a seed collection workshop with experts Michael North and Helen Lindsay. Notable species already present on the land include yellow mistletoe and hīnau, with a mix of podocarps and beech in the canopy.
The keen propagators walked through the fenced remnants, learning techniques on how to collect seed and propagate native plants. They discussed the natural cycles of the forest, including beech mast years, where an abundance of seed is produced, especially in drought seasons like this one.
Lively discussion around mixing natives with exotics took place, where the balance lies between ornamental planting and restoration and if a tree has origins on the North Island, is it still a native?
The experts shared tips like ensuring species such as mataī have both shelter and a light well plus sharing advice on making sure not too much seed is taken from a single plant.
The session concluded with a seed swap, advice on where to find TDC planting lists and how to set up a collecting net.