Benefits of ecosourcing
Ecosourced plants:
- preserve an area's ecological history and maintain local biodiversity
- survive and adapt better to local conditions
- preserve the distinct features of its kind growing in Auckland.
Plants of the same species but sourced from different localities vary in characteristics, including growth rate and tolerance of environmental conditions.
They may have the same name but have subtle genetic differences.
This is because every ecological district has a unique topography, geology, climate, soils and land use.
Where to get locally sourced plants
Buying from local nurseries does not guarantee locally sourced plants. Many Auckland nurseries sell plants originating from other parts of New Zealand.
Ask your nursery or local garden centre if they stock or can provide ecosourced plants.
Alternatively, you can collect seeds from the natural environment. Ask permission from the landowner first.
For more on ecosourcing, see our Ecosourcing brochure.
