Returning garden to nature
Just over four years ago a small book arrived in my mailbox, wrapped in a tough plastic cover and ready to take outdoors. Bringing back the Bush, by Joan Bradley, describes a hands-on approach to restoring native bush, without the need for chemicals or planting.
Bradley, J. (1997) Bringing Back the Bush: The Bradley Method of Bush Regeneration. Lansdowne, Sydney.
The Bradley method of natural native forest regeneration is written for those engaged in forest ecosystem restoration. It's also an excellent approach that can be adapted for smaller scale gardeners who want some native bush in their backyard, don't have much time, but can visit it frequently.
The Bradley method, created by Sydney-based sisters Joan and Eileen Bradley over several decades of practical experience, is summed up by its three principles:
1. Work from good to bad. Don't tackle the weediest parts of your garden first. Instead focus on weeding the areas with the fewest weeds to stop them from getting a footing and to give the natives present the opportunity to spread.
2. Minimise disturbance. While you work, watch where you put your feet to protect tiny native seedlings. Most weeds thrive in disturbed soil so use the smallest tools possible for the job. If you must remove soil to dig out a root, set aside the different soil layers separately and replace them in reverse order with the leaf litter on top. A good working guide is to spend no more than 20 minutes in one place.
The Bradley method of restoring bush is not the only chemical-free approach. Hens do a great job of removing grass, and on larger properties gorse can act as a nursery plant for natural native forest regeneration.
3. Allow regeneration to set the pace. Don't over clear: the rate of native plant growth should determine the rate of weed removal. For example, if a native plant spreads 10cm in a growing season while a competing weed spreads 30cm, weed three times in the season each time reducing the weeds by 10 cm.
These are great guiding principles. However, Sydney is not Dunedin, and many of our invasive plants here are different. In the 6ha Dalmore Reserve where I volunteer with Wild Dalmore Reserve, we've been "experimenting" — adapting the Bradley method as well as heeding local advice. We hope to scale up our efforts as we learn more and also attract more volunteers to join us. Here are a few examples from our very small "dataset":
Wild Dalmore Reserve volunteer Jon with a blackberry lignotuber.
Blackberry shrubs have lignotubers, a rather kumara-shaped woody nodule to which many roots and shoots are attached. To remove blackberry, dig these up carefully, cut away the roots and shoots, repack the holes with soil and replace the topsoil and leaf litter.
Aluminium weed is a ground cover plant that spreads rapidly via shoots that readily root when they touch the ground. Tackle the small patches first. On bigger patches, work from the edge to the centre a little at a time. Pick up stems so no plants regrow from the cuttings. Remember to replace leaf litter to deter other weeds.
Invasive tree and shrub seedlings should be tackled after the rain has softened the soil but it is not sodden. For plants with a deep vertical tap root such as gorse or Spanish heath, pull gently and steadily upwards from the base of the plant. For plants with lateral roots, such as European birch, pull each of the roots in the direction it is growing, or cut. Pliers are useful. Poke and pack the holes left by the roots with soil, and cover with mulch.
Seedling of European birch removed with tomato knife.
If there is native bush reasonably nearby, one advantage of letting native plants arrive themselves (via birds, insects or wind) is that they will be well suited to the conditions in your garden. It's also fun to see what nature does.
Record your actions and observations in your garden notebook: we'd love to hear what works for you! DM us on Facebook: Wild Dalmore Reserve.
Dr Maureen Howard is the creator and host of the podcast series Rewilding in Action, with Otago Access Radio.
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Otago Daily Times
2 days ago
- Otago Daily Times
Returning garden to nature
The results of an afternoon spent weeding aluminium plant in Dalmore Reserve. PHOTOS: MAUREEN HOWARD Just over four years ago a small book arrived in my mailbox, wrapped in a tough plastic cover and ready to take outdoors. Bringing back the Bush, by Joan Bradley, describes a hands-on approach to restoring native bush, without the need for chemicals or planting. Bradley, J. (1997) Bringing Back the Bush: The Bradley Method of Bush Regeneration. Lansdowne, Sydney. The Bradley method of natural native forest regeneration is written for those engaged in forest ecosystem restoration. It's also an excellent approach that can be adapted for smaller scale gardeners who want some native bush in their backyard, don't have much time, but can visit it frequently. The Bradley method, created by Sydney-based sisters Joan and Eileen Bradley over several decades of practical experience, is summed up by its three principles: 1. Work from good to bad. Don't tackle the weediest parts of your garden first. Instead focus on weeding the areas with the fewest weeds to stop them from getting a footing and to give the natives present the opportunity to spread. 2. Minimise disturbance. While you work, watch where you put your feet to protect tiny native seedlings. Most weeds thrive in disturbed soil so use the smallest tools possible for the job. If you must remove soil to dig out a root, set aside the different soil layers separately and replace them in reverse order with the leaf litter on top. A good working guide is to spend no more than 20 minutes in one place. The Bradley method of restoring bush is not the only chemical-free approach. Hens do a great job of removing grass, and on larger properties gorse can act as a nursery plant for natural native forest regeneration. 3. Allow regeneration to set the pace. Don't over clear: the rate of native plant growth should determine the rate of weed removal. For example, if a native plant spreads 10cm in a growing season while a competing weed spreads 30cm, weed three times in the season each time reducing the weeds by 10 cm. These are great guiding principles. However, Sydney is not Dunedin, and many of our invasive plants here are different. In the 6ha Dalmore Reserve where I volunteer with Wild Dalmore Reserve, we've been "experimenting" — adapting the Bradley method as well as heeding local advice. We hope to scale up our efforts as we learn more and also attract more volunteers to join us. Here are a few examples from our very small "dataset": Wild Dalmore Reserve volunteer Jon with a blackberry lignotuber. Blackberry shrubs have lignotubers, a rather kumara-shaped woody nodule to which many roots and shoots are attached. To remove blackberry, dig these up carefully, cut away the roots and shoots, repack the holes with soil and replace the topsoil and leaf litter. Aluminium weed is a ground cover plant that spreads rapidly via shoots that readily root when they touch the ground. Tackle the small patches first. On bigger patches, work from the edge to the centre a little at a time. Pick up stems so no plants regrow from the cuttings. Remember to replace leaf litter to deter other weeds. Invasive tree and shrub seedlings should be tackled after the rain has softened the soil but it is not sodden. For plants with a deep vertical tap root such as gorse or Spanish heath, pull gently and steadily upwards from the base of the plant. For plants with lateral roots, such as European birch, pull each of the roots in the direction it is growing, or cut. Pliers are useful. Poke and pack the holes left by the roots with soil, and cover with mulch. Seedling of European birch removed with tomato knife. If there is native bush reasonably nearby, one advantage of letting native plants arrive themselves (via birds, insects or wind) is that they will be well suited to the conditions in your garden. It's also fun to see what nature does. Record your actions and observations in your garden notebook: we'd love to hear what works for you! DM us on Facebook: Wild Dalmore Reserve. Dr Maureen Howard is the creator and host of the podcast series Rewilding in Action, with Otago Access Radio.
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3 days ago
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New Research Urges Major Policy Reset For Moving Native Freshwater Species In Aotearoa
Press Release – Cawthron Institute The paper, Rethinking freshwater translocation policy and practice in Aotearoa New Zealand, reviews more than three decades of translocation projects and concludes that current systems are fragmentary, technically under-resourced, and often fall … Cawthron Institute, Whakatū/Nelson — A landmark study just published in the New Zealand Journal of Ecology calls for a wholesale rethink of Aotearoa New Zealand's approach to authorising, managing, and monitoring how people move native freshwater fish and invertebrates. The paper, ' Rethinking freshwater translocation policy and practice in Aotearoa New Zealand,' reviews more than three decades of translocation projects and concludes that current systems are 'fragmentary, technically under-resourced, and often fall short of Te Tiriti o Waitangi commitments.' 'Translocations can support mahinga kai, rescue threatened species, and reconnect communities with awa,' said lead author Dr Aisling Rayne of Cawthron Institute, 'but without clear, cohesive policy and genuine mana whenua leadership, these efforts risk being ad-hoc and, at worst, harmful.' Three priority fixes The authors identify three shifts that would unlock the full ecological and cultural potential of freshwater translocations: Joined-up authorisation and governance – streamline permits and align the patchwork of legislation that currently spans conservation, fisheries, and regional planning. Inclusive decision-making – front-load translocation planning with mana whenua, local communities, and sector stakeholders so that who decides and how decisions are made are transparent and Treaty-honouring. Consistent monitoring and reporting – adopt nationwide standards for tracking ecological outcomes and cultural aspirations, so successes and lessons are shared rather than lost. Lessons from the field The paper features two case studies that illustrate both promise and pain points: Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne (Wellington): reintroductions of toitoi (common bully) and kākahi (freshwater mussel) showed how collaborative, Treaty-based projects can revitalise taonga species—but also how the technical know-how is often yet to be discovered. Hokonui Rūnanga (Murihiku / Southland): captive breeding and translocation of kanakana (pouched lamprey) demonstrates iwi-led leadership, yet highlights the maze of permits and biosecurity hurdles faced by community groups. 'These projects prove that culturally grounded science builds trust and public care,' said co-author Dr Joanne Clapcott (Cawthron Institute). 'What's missing is a national direction that makes this the norm, not the exception.' Looking ahead: climate change, biosecurity and new tech The paper argues that translocations will only grow in importance as climate pressures shift species' ranges and new tools—such as gamete cryobanking and broodstock surrogacy—become viable. It also warns that poorly planned 'mitigation' transfers can spread pests or distract from habitat protection. 'Freshwater translocations aren't a silver bullet,' said Dr Rayne, 'but with supportive policy and careful planning they can be a powerful part of a wider restoration toolkit.' Research partner quotes Riki Parata, Hokonui Rūnanga 'Hokonui Rūnanga welcomes the research findings, hoping they will guide iwi and their partners in the translocation of taonga species. The current framework restricts our ability to translocate our taonga, despite our tīpuna (ancestors) having done so for generations before us. This paper highlights numerous barriers and offers solutions. We are grateful for the research and support of Dr Aisling Rayne, Dr Joanne Clapcott, the Cawthron Institute, and the multiple contributors involved in bringing these findings to light. Our hope is to see new policies and processes established on the back of this research, integrating Mātauranga Māori and multiple scientific disciplines to enhance decision-making around translocations.' Dr Matthew Wylie, Plant and Food Research 'This work highlights opportunities to explore how emerging biotechnologies—such as gamete cryobanking and broodstock surrogacy—could be integrated with translocations in ways that uphold Indigenous rights and worldviews. These innovative spaces allow us to co-develop new tools and new knowledge to protect threatened freshwater taonga species in ways that honour Te Ao Māori.' Dr Danielle Shanahan, Zealandia 'Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne has witnessed first-hand how the revitalisation of mātauranga through translocations can shape people and relationships, as much as the environment. We need improvements in our back-end systems to better help achieve these outcomes.' About the study This study was completed in partnership by researchers and contributors from: Cawthron Institute, Te Kura Pūtaiao Koiora School of Biological Sciences at Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha University of Canterbury, Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne, Kitson Consulting Limited, Hokonui Rūnanga, Te Kura Mātauranga Koiora School of Biological Sciences at Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand's Biological Heritage National Science Challenge, and The New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research Limited. The open-access article includes a practical 'next steps' table for policymakers and practitioners.
Scoop
3 days ago
- Scoop
New Research Urges Major Policy Reset For Moving Native Freshwater Species In Aotearoa
Press Release – Cawthron Institute The paper, Rethinking freshwater translocation policy and practice in Aotearoa New Zealand, reviews more than three decades of translocation projects and concludes that current systems are fragmentary, technically under-resourced, and often fall … Cawthron Institute, Whakatū/Nelson — A landmark study just published in the New Zealand Journal of Ecology calls for a wholesale rethink of Aotearoa New Zealand's approach to authorising, managing, and monitoring how people move native freshwater fish and invertebrates. The paper, ' Rethinking freshwater translocation policy and practice in Aotearoa New Zealand,' reviews more than three decades of translocation projects and concludes that current systems are 'fragmentary, technically under-resourced, and often fall short of Te Tiriti o Waitangi commitments.' 'Translocations can support mahinga kai, rescue threatened species, and reconnect communities with awa,' said lead author Dr Aisling Rayne of Cawthron Institute, 'but without clear, cohesive policy and genuine mana whenua leadership, these efforts risk being ad-hoc and, at worst, harmful.' Three priority fixes The authors identify three shifts that would unlock the full ecological and cultural potential of freshwater translocations: Joined-up authorisation and governance – streamline permits and align the patchwork of legislation that currently spans conservation, fisheries, and regional planning. Inclusive decision-making – front-load translocation planning with mana whenua, local communities, and sector stakeholders so that who decides and how decisions are made are transparent and Treaty-honouring. Consistent monitoring and reporting – adopt nationwide standards for tracking ecological outcomes and cultural aspirations, so successes and lessons are shared rather than lost. Lessons from the field The paper features two case studies that illustrate both promise and pain points: Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne (Wellington): reintroductions of toitoi (common bully) and kākahi (freshwater mussel) showed how collaborative, Treaty-based projects can revitalise taonga species—but also how the technical know-how is often yet to be discovered. Hokonui Rūnanga (Murihiku / Southland): captive breeding and translocation of kanakana (pouched lamprey) demonstrates iwi-led leadership, yet highlights the maze of permits and biosecurity hurdles faced by community groups. 'These projects prove that culturally grounded science builds trust and public care,' said co-author Dr Joanne Clapcott (Cawthron Institute). 'What's missing is a national direction that makes this the norm, not the exception.' Looking ahead: climate change, biosecurity and new tech The paper argues that translocations will only grow in importance as climate pressures shift species' ranges and new tools—such as gamete cryobanking and broodstock surrogacy—become viable. It also warns that poorly planned 'mitigation' transfers can spread pests or distract from habitat protection. 'Freshwater translocations aren't a silver bullet,' said Dr Rayne, 'but with supportive policy and careful planning they can be a powerful part of a wider restoration toolkit.' Riki Parata, Hokonui Rūnanga 'Hokonui Rūnanga welcomes the research findings, hoping they will guide iwi and their partners in the translocation of taonga species. The current framework restricts our ability to translocate our taonga, despite our tīpuna (ancestors) having done so for generations before us. This paper highlights numerous barriers and offers solutions. We are grateful for the research and support of Dr Aisling Rayne, Dr Joanne Clapcott, the Cawthron Institute, and the multiple contributors involved in bringing these findings to light. Our hope is to see new policies and processes established on the back of this research, integrating Mātauranga Māori and multiple scientific disciplines to enhance decision-making around translocations.' Dr Matthew Wylie, Plant and Food Research 'This work highlights opportunities to explore how emerging biotechnologies—such as gamete cryobanking and broodstock surrogacy—could be integrated with translocations in ways that uphold Indigenous rights and worldviews. These innovative spaces allow us to co-develop new tools and new knowledge to protect threatened freshwater taonga species in ways that honour Te Ao Māori.' Dr Danielle Shanahan, Zealandia 'Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne has witnessed first-hand how the revitalisation of mātauranga through translocations can shape people and relationships, as much as the environment. We need improvements in our back-end systems to better help achieve these outcomes.' About the study This study was completed in partnership by researchers and contributors from: Cawthron Institute, Te Kura Pūtaiao Koiora School of Biological Sciences at Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha University of Canterbury, Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne, Kitson Consulting Limited, Hokonui Rūnanga, Te Kura Mātauranga Koiora School of Biological Sciences at Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand's Biological Heritage National Science Challenge, and The New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research Limited. The open-access article includes a practical 'next steps' table for policymakers and practitioners.
