Lifestyle File

Practical, trustworthy articles for lifestyle farmers. Browse by species, season, or topic. New content added every week.

Biochar and Composting: 10 Benefits for Your Block

Adding biochar to compost improves water retention, aeration, nutrient holding, and reduces smells. Learn how biochar works and why it is useful for lifestyle blocks.

Your Backyard Fruit Bowl – Pepinos

Learn how to grow pepinos in your backyard for a unique and delicious fruit harvest. Explore planting tips, care, and maintenance to enjoy this versatile fruit in your garden.

Your Backyard Fruit Bowl – Bananas

Thanks to a group of dedicated growers in Northland, locally grown bananas are set to become commonplace. You can try your hand too with this practical advice.

Your Backyard Fruit Bowl – Grapefruit

The citrus season is upon us, and what better time to celebrate the reliable citrus heavyweight which tends to live life out of the limelight, the grapefruit.

Your Backyard Fruit Bowl – Strawberries

Good news for strawberry fans – your favourite fruit can be grown right throughout New Zealand.

Your Backyard Fruit Bowl – Hazelnuts

Hazelnuts, the fruit of the hazel tree, are an easy-care addition to the home garden, making them the perfect beginner species if you are new to nut growing.