As we roll into 2025, weather experts predict a hot dry summer ahead. Long periods of dry are ideal for completing those summer landscaping projects. Looking for inspiration? Team members from each of our yards have put together their top ten project ideas to get you started in the garden this summer.
Without further ado, here’s our team’s suggestions for summer garden projects that’ll turn your place into an oasis! 🌞🌴
Summer Landscaping Project #1 - Keep Cool with the magic of Mulch
The first tip is from Tania at Central Landscape Supplies Drury. Her advice is to keep your garden cool with some mulching magic. “Beat the summer heat by spreading mulch around your garden beds. It locks in moisture, keeps the roots cool, and stops weeds from crashing the party. For a tropical vibe, try pea straw or bark; for a sleek look, go with decorative pebbles."
Summer Landscaping Project #2 - JakMat Geocell for Permeable Paths & Driveways
Aaron from our Central Landscape Supplies East Tamaki yard has a great project suggestion if you need to stabilise areas for a path, boat pad or even a driveway. " Lay down some JakMat Geocell for a high strength ground stabilisation solution. Made from recycled plastic, it’s an eco-friendly, permeable option that’s ideal for driveways or garden walkways. Fill it with your favourite pebbles for a unique look.”
Summer Landscaping Project #3 – Pavers for Perfect Chill-Out Spaces
Isaia from Central Landscape Supplies Swanson loves the versatility of pavers for transforming plain backyards into beautiful summer hangouts.
“Create stylish paths or patios with our range of Feinwerk Pavers. They’re strong but actually quite light – so easy to load into your vehicle or trailer. We’ve got everything you need to put together a patio - perfect for those long summer BBQs or backyard hangouts."
Summer Landscaping Project #4 - Boost Your Soil with Garden Mix
Yvonne from our Central Landscape Supplies Silverdale suggests treating your plants to a summer feast by adding Garden Mix to your garden beds. “This balanced blend gives your flowers and veggies the nutrients they need to keeping thriving over the summer.”
Summer Landscaping Project #5 - Build a Raised Garden Bed
Kerry from Central Landscape Supplies Avondale recommends raised garden beds for keen gardeners. “We stock Macrocarpa Sleepers and Trustwood Pine Sleepers for building raised garden beds. They’re great for veggies, look stylish, and keep everything accessible and easy to manage."
Summer Landscaping Project #6 - Compost: The Garden’s Superfood
Heather from Central Landscapes Marketing is a keen and experienced gardener. She has an easy summer project to boost your garden harvest. “Feed your garden with rich, crumbly Premium Compost for lush growth. Our Premium Compost is a blend of composted bark, with added chicken manure and gypsum. Fork it through your beds and it will condition the soil and encourage great veggie growth.”
Summer Landscaping Project #7 - Pea Straw: The Summer Blanket
Russell is from Central Landscape Supplies Waiheke, so he really understands the value of creating favourable micro-climates for your plants. “Tuck your soil in with a layer of Pea Straw. It keeps moisture locked in, regulates temperature, blocks out pesky weeds, and slowly enriches your soil as it breaks down. Perfect for veggie gardens!”
Summer Landscaping Project #8 - Add Style with Decorative Pebbles
Kalib from Central Landscape Supplies Warkworth has a great project suggestion for those awkward, ‘hard to grow in’ areas. “Decorative pebble gardens are a cool way to create a Zen-like space. Plant colourful succulents and surround them with your favourite pebbles or chunkier stones. No watering required!”
Summer Landscaping Project #9 - Set the Scene with GAP 20
Matt from Central Landscape Supplies Albany is a practical man. “Planning a backyard transformation? Make sure you start with the right foundation. GAP 20 is ideal as a base course under paths, patios, or raised garden beds. Once compacted it binds together really well.”
Summer Landscaping Project #10 - Stay Dry with Drainage Metal
Jen from Central Landscape Supplies Hamilton West hates soggy soil: “Think back to last winter and your lawn. Where did it get boggy? Now’s the perfect time to put in a field drain before the ground gets too hard. Use Novacoil Drain Coil and Drainage Metal or Scoria to keep the water flowing where it should and make your garden more rain resilient in 2025.”
Bonus Summer Landscaping Project #11!
Lisa from soon-to-be-open Central Landscape Supplies Hamilton Eastside has a great suggestion for those garden beds. “Add a Mulch layer thicker than you think you need, over 10cm is good, 15cm is better, or more if the space allows. Our sun, the birds, the wind and rain all erode our hard work, so lay it thick, keep the moisture in and those pesky weeds away!”
Make your garden the ultimate summer escape while keeping it healthy, water-smart, and stylish. Throw on your sun hat, grab a cold drink, and let’s get gardening! 🌺🍹
