Autumn Scoop 2026

AUTUMN 2026 Contents

WHAT’S HAPPENING

At Kings

Autumn has arrived, bringing one of the best planting windows of the year. The soil is still warm, the days are cooler, and plants can establish strong roots before winter settles in. It is nature’s planting time, and we are celebrating with our much-loved Autumn Festival.

Running through late March and early April, our Autumn Festival is a celebration of all things growing. Expect exclusive offers,

expert advice, inspiring displays, and plenty of seasonal favourites arriving instore. Whether you are refreshing garden beds, planting hedging, or getting spring bulbs sorted, our team is here to help you grow well.

April also brings the school holidays, and plenty is happening to keep little hands busy. Visit your local Kings for fun, gardenthemed activities designed to spark curiosity and creativity. It is

a great way to introduce the next generation to the joy of growing.

As always, our stores are full of fresh arrivals, knowledgeable plant-loving staff, and everything you need to set your garden up for the cooler months ahead.

Autumn is a season of preparation and possibility. We look forward to helping you make the most of it.

- The Kings team

CELEBRATING YOUR SUCCESS Gardeners’ Mail

Rusty’s New Garden

Hi,

My name is Rusty and I've just moved into my new house after being adopted from the Pukekohe Adoption Centre and thought the grass needed a bit of work. Mum has told me that I needed to replace what I have pulled out.

- Joanna

Heirloom Harvest

Hi, I just wanted to share some Gardener’s Mail.

These are my tomatoes harvested from my 30L pot plant. With more and more of us living in spaces without backyards, it’s so important to give gardening a go, even if it’s just a few pots on your balcony. I have had so much success with my heirloom tomatoes thanks to the tips about feeding and pest control in the Kings Scoop magazine

- Jaclyn

Post: PO BOX 31002, Milford, 0741

Email: scoop@kings.co.nz or message us on Facebook or Instagram

A Rose for Mum

Hello

Mum passed away in 2024 at the amazing age of 102. Our friends bought us this rose called "My Mum" in memory of her. We repotted it recently into a terracotta pot bought at Kings Silverdale during a 40% off Pots Sale, and it's doing so well. We placed it on our deck so we can see it easily from the house. It is blooming constantly and is the perfect reminder of Mum, as she loved growing roses.

- Carole

ASK THE Plant Doctor

Got a tricky plant question? Ask instore or try our online Plant Doctor at plantdoctor.co.nz

Hi Plant Doctor,

Some of my garden plants are getting silvery marks on the leaves and look a bit damaged. Can you please help?

- Thanks, Cassie

Hi Cassie,

This damage is likely caused by thrips. They suck sap from leaves, leaving silvery patches. Spray plants with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or Aquaticus Bugtrol, ensuring thorough coverage on both sides of leaves.

Hello Plant Doc!

I’m noticing these small jumping insects and sticky residue on several plants in my garden. What could be causing this?

- Thanks, Jamie

Hi Jamie,

These are passionvine hoppers. They produce sticky honeydew that leads to sooty mould. Spray plants with Aquaticus Bugtrol as directed, and prune any twigs showing serrated egg-laying scars to reduce future pests.

ESSENTIALS range

Chosen by growers. Loved by gardeners.

Ask our team about our Essentials range now instore!

HIGHEST QUALITY

Every plant is carefully selected to meet our high standards - healthy, vibrant, and ready to thrive.

GROWN BY US

Grown at our very own local nursery for Auckland conditions, each plant is nurtured with expert care from day one.

UNBEATABLE VALUE

Supplied directly from our nursery, we keep prices down - so you get premium plants at everyday great value.

Grown Locally for Auckland Gardens

Kings Essentials is our own plant range, grown locally at our nursery and selected by our growers to suit Auckland conditions. The range has been carefully put together to cover the core needs of real gardens — including hedging for structure and privacy, groundcovers to fill space and suppress weeds, and feature plants to add shape and impact. These are plants gardeners rely on year after year.

By growing these plants ourselves, we’re involved at every step of their journey, from propagation through to store. This allows us to maintain consistently high standards, reliable availability, and pricing that delivers unbeatable value, every day.

You can shop with confidence knowing each plant has been grown with care, chosen for performance, and priced to deliver great value year-round. Need help? Ask our friendly team to learn more!

AUTUMN PLANTS

We’re

Loving

Autumn brings a fresh shift in the garden. As temperatures cool and soil stays warm, it’s the perfect time to plant. From rich foliage to long-lasting blooms, these are the varieties we’re loving right now for Auckland gardens.

Chrysanthemum

Chrysanthemums are a true autumn favourite, bringing bold colour just as summer fades. With long-lasting blooms in rich seasonal tones, they are perfect for pots, borders, or filling gaps in garden beds as the weather cools.

Camellia

Prized for their stunning blooms and lush, evergreen foliage, camellias are an autumn classic. Their versatility makes them a favourite for hedging, screening, and as feature plants. We stock two main species: Camellia sasanqua, which blooms earlier in the season and is great for espalier or hedges, and Camellia japonica, known for its larger, showy flowers.

Cyclamen

With masses of colourful blooms from early autumn through spring, cyclamen are a favourite for autumn gardens. This year, we’ve got some exciting new varieties of cyclamen arriving, including Dragon Blue cyclamen, with a unique mix of blue colours.

Grevillea

Often nicknamed the “toothbrush” or “spider flower” due to their distinctive blooms, grevilleas are a vibrant and hardy choice for autumn planting. Available in a range of stunning colours, they attract pollinators like bees and birds to your garden. Grevilleas are drought-tolerant and easy to care for, making them a popular choice for lowmaintenance gardens.

Gardenia

Popular for their beautiful blooms with sweet fragrance, there’s so much to love about gardenias. They flower for months on end, filling your garden with their signature scent. Gardenias thrive in pots and garden beds, and their glossy green foliage keeps your garden looking lush.

Heuchera

Also known as ‘coral bells’, heuchera is a favourite for its dainty bell-like blooms and striking foliage. Available in shades of deep purple, rich green, and silvery hues, heucheras are perfect for adding texture and colour to your garden year-round. These versatile plants thrive in both sun and shade, making them a great option for borders, containers, and underplanting.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date with new releases and what we’re loving.

KingsPlantBarnNZ

KingsPlantBarn

SHAPE YOUR SPACE WITH Hedging

Hedging is one of the most effective ways to shape your garden. It creates privacy, provides shelter from wind, and adds structure that lasts year-round. Plant in autumn while the soil is warm, and your hedge will establish strong roots before winter arrives.

Planting

Autumn is the ideal time to plant hedging in Auckland. The soil is still warm, rainfall increases, and plants can establish strong roots before winter winds arrive.

Start by preparing the full length of the hedge line rather than digging individual holes. A wellworked trench allows roots to spread evenly and helps create a consistent hedge over time.

Improve your soil before planting. Mix in Kings Compost and Sheep Pellets to boost organic matter and support early growth. On heavier clay soils, incorporate Gypsum ClayBreaker to improve drainage and soil structure.

Space plants according to their mature size and how quickly you want coverage. Closer spacing creates a denser hedge sooner, while wider spacing requires fewer plants but takes longer to fill in.

Plant at the same depth as the grow pot, firm the soil gently, and water in deeply to settle the roots.

Care

Consistent care in the first year makes all the difference. Water regularly through dry autumn spells to help roots establish before winter.

Apply a layer of mulch along the hedge line to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping it clear

of the stems. Feed in autumn and again in spring with Kings General Garden Food to support steady growth.

Light, regular trimming encourages thicker growth from the base. Avoid cutting back too hard in winter. Instead, shape little and often through the active growing season.

With the right planting and early care, your hedge will reward you with strong structure, privacy, and year-round greenery.

Our Top Varieties

Ficus Tuffi

A popular, fast-growing hedging option with vibrant emerald foliage that deepens in colour as it matures. Ideal for creating quick privacy and structure. Plant no closer than 50cm apart for a dense, healthy hedge.

Griselinia

A reliable and adaptable native that’s perfect for screening and privacy. Its glossy evergreen leaves provide year-round structure and suit both modern and traditional gardens. Plant approximately 75cm apart.

Corokia

A hardy New Zealand native available in a range of foliage tones, from fresh green to silver and rich chocolate. Well suited to coastal and exposed sites. Space 30–50cm apart depending on the variety.

Pittosporum

With a wide selection of varieties, pittosporum offers different leaf shapes, textures and colours to suit any garden style. A strong choice for screening and boundary planting. Space around

Kings Top Tip

Water deeply and consistently through the first autumn. Strong root establishment now is the key to a dense, resilient hedge next year.

Grow well with HEDGING ESSENTIALS

Kings Compost

Adds organic matter and improves soil structure when mixed into planting soil, helping hedging plants establish strong roots.

Living Earth More Than

Retains moisture, suppresses weeds, and protects soil while young hedging plants establish.

Helps break up heavy clay soils and improves drainage, allowing roots to grow more easily and preventing waterlogging around young hedges.

CELEBRATE THE SEASON WITH Autumn Colour

Autumn is a season of transition, where the garden shifts from the lush greens of summer to the warmer hues of autumn. Enjoy the last of the warmer weather, and fill your garden with vibrant colour that will thrive in the cooler months ahead.

Autumn is nature’s planting time. With warm soil and cooler temperatures, plants establish strong roots before winter arrives. Planting now helps set your garden up for success, bringing lasting colour and interest through the cooler months ahead.

When planning an autumn display, think in layers to create depth and structure. Start with feature plants such as maples or camellias, add mid-sized shrubs for seasonal colour, and finish with low-growing plants to soften edges and fill gaps.

Our Top Autumn Colour Plants

Azaleas

Azaleas produce stunning displays of blooms from autumn through winter. Perfect for adding a pop of colour to shaded areas, azaleas are relatively easy to care for when planted in the right spot in your garden.

Cyclamen

Brighten up those shady garden spots with colourful cyclamen. With masses of blooms throughout the cooler months, cyclamen make a great addition to your autumn garden. Colours range from pinks, whites and reds, and will bring life to your garden for years to come.

Camellias

Available in a range of stunning colours, camellias are great for hedging, screening or as a feature plant. Their glossy evergreen foliage creates a lush backdrop for striking blooms that appear from autumn through spring, depending on the variety.

Pansies

Add a burst of colour to your garden with pansies. Available in a range of bright colours, pansies are beautiful in pots, hanging baskets or planted en masse. They thrive during the cooler months, and these edible flowers also make a stunning addition to salads and cakes.

Planting in small groups, especially in odd numbers, helps create a natural, balanced look. Pair complementary plants like vibrant cyclamen with soft green ferns, or plant alyssum beneath maples to add texture and colour at different levels.

Chrysanthemum

Often referred to as “Mums”, chrysanthemums have versatile blooms in a range of bold and vibrant colours. They are super easy-care, and perfect as a gift, or adding a pop of colour to your indoor or outdoor space.

Acer palmatum

Commonly known as “Japanese Maple”, acers are renowned for their breathtaking foliage, transforming to shades of fiery red, vibrant orange, and golden yellow in the autumn months. These trees are available in a variety of sizes, making them perfect for any space.

GROW YOUR OWN Citrus

Citrus trees bring structure, fragrance, and fresh flavour to Auckland gardens. Their glossy foliage looks good year-round, and homegrown fruit is hard to beat. Plant in autumn while the soil is warm for strong roots and healthy spring growth.

Planting

Choose a sunny, sheltered position protected from strong winds and frost. Citrus prefer free-draining soil rich in organic matter. Improve garden beds with Kings Compost and Sheep Pellets before planting. For pots, use Kings Container Mix and ensure good drainage. Water deeply after planting and mulch around the base.

Care

Water deeply and consistently while your tree establishes, especially through dry autumn spells. Feed in autumn and spring with Kings Citrus Food to support healthy growth and fruiting. Keep mulch clear of the trunk to prevent rot, and lightly prune to remove dead wood and improve airflow through the tree.

Our Top Varieties

A reliable favourite producing sweet, juicy fruit almost yearround. Compact and productive, it suits both garden beds and large pots in sunny, sheltered Auckland positions.

A seedless, zesty lime packed with juice and flavour. Highly productive in warm, sheltered spots and ideal for cooking, drinks, and everyday kitchen use.

Kings Top Tip

Refresh mulch around your citrus each autumn. This helps retain moisture, improve soil health, and protect roots as temperatures begin to cool.

Miho

An early-ripening, easy-peel mandarin with sweet, seedless fruit. Compact and reliable, it’s perfect for smaller gardens and a favourite for lunchboxes and snacking.

AUTUMN PLANTS FOR Native Birds

With the right plants in place, your garden can become a haven for native birds. Trees, shrubs, and flowering plants provide food, shelter, and safe places to rest throughout the year.

Our Top Varieties

Hebe

With vibrant blooms in a range of stunning colours, hebes attract many of our native birds. They provide food in the form of flowers and insects, attracting bellbirds, fantails, and silvereyes to your garden.

Phormium

Clumping evergreen plants with arching, scrappy foliage and long flower stalks. Filled with nectar, tūis are often found feeding on the flowers. They’re hardy and adaptable, perfect for adding texture and height to your garden

Kowhai

This iconic native is a must-have for bird lovers. Kowhai’s vibrant yellow flowers are rich in nectar, attracting kererū, tūis, and waxeyes. Kowhai trees are easy to grow and will reward you with their colourful blooms year after year.

Nikau

The nikau palm is the only palm species native to New Zealand. Its lush green foliage and impressive height, which can eventually reach 10 metres, make it a striking addition to any garden. Kererū love to feast on the nikau’s fruit.

Metrosideros

Metrosideros, also known as the Pohutukawa or New Zealand Christmas Tree, is loved by both tūis and bellbirds. With its vibrant crimson flowers, and glossy green foliage, this iconic tree makes a striking focal point for the garden.

Coprosma

Coprosmas offer food in the form of berries, flowers, and insects, making them a year-round source of sustenance. With vibrant foliage and unique texture, coprosmas add character and colour to your garden.

AUTUMN HOUSEPLANT CARE Indoor Plants

As the days shorten and temperatures begin to cool, our indoor plant routine needs a gentle reset. Autumn is a time to slow things down, adjust care, and refresh your space. It’s also a great opportunity to introduce a few new plants and rethink how you style them at home.

Autumn Care Tips

Watering

With cooler conditions and reduced light, most indoor plants use less water than they do in spring and summer. Allow the top layer of soil to dry before watering plants such as monstera, ficus and peace lilies.

Moisture-loving plants like ferns, fittonias and carnivorous varieties prefer consistent damp soil, so check them more regularly. As always, avoid letting pots sit in water, especially as evaporation slows during autumn.

Position

Lower light levels can mean repositioning a few plants. Move light-hungry varieties closer to bright windows, and rotate plants by a quarter turn each week to keep growth balanced. Keep plants away from cold draughts and open windows at night. If your home cools significantly in the evenings, grouping plants together can help maintain humidity and warmth.

Feeding

Growth naturally slows as the weather cools, and many indoor plants begin to rest during autumn and winter. Reduce feeding through autumn, as most plants require fewer nutrients while growth slows. If plants stop actively growing, pause fertilising and resume regular feeding once new growth returns in spring.

Our Top Varieties

Zamioculcas ‘Zanzibar’

Commonly known as the ZZ plant, this is one of the most resilient houseplants you can own. Its glossy, architectural leaves add structure to any room, and it tolerates everything from low to bright indirect light. Water sparingly and allow soil to dry between drinks.

Monstera

A true statement plant, monstera’s large, split leaves bring instant tropical impact. Best positioned in medium to bright indirect light, it prefers consistent but moderate watering. A reliable favourite for living spaces.

Ficus Lyrata

The fiddle leaf fig is a bold, architectural plant known for its large, violin-shaped leaves. It thrives in bright, indirect light and prefers a consistent routine. Water when the top layer of soil feels dry and avoid cold draughts. Perfect for adding height and impact to living spaces.

Sansevieria

Also known as snake plant, sansevieria is valued for its upright form and striking foliage patterns. Extremely hardy, it copes well in low light and only needs occasional watering. A strong choice for bedrooms, offices, or darker corners.

Hoya

Hoyas are easy-care climbers with thick, waxy leaves and clusters of fragrant, star-shaped flowers. They enjoy bright, indirect light and minimal watering. Perfect for shelves or hanging pots in warm, well-lit rooms.

Dracaena

With elegant canes and palm-like foliage, dracaenas bring height and softness to interior spaces. They handle lower light comfortably and prefer to dry slightly between watering. Ideal for adding greenery without high maintenance.

Grow well with HOUSEPLANT ESSENTIALS

Kings Houseplant Mix 10L

The perfect foundation for thriving indoor plants, blending drainage and nutrients for strong, healthy growth.

Kings Houseplant Food

Feed your indoor plants with the nutrients they need to thrive all year-round. Encourages strong roots, lush leaves, and steady growth for happy,

Sus-tee Water Meters

A simple way to check soil moisture and keep your plants perfectly hydrated, preventing overwatering.

LIVING EARTH

LIVING EARTH

LIVING EARTH

GROWING YOUR BEST GARDEN WITH

TURNING GREENWASTE INTO AMAZING RESULTS

TURNING GREENWASTE INTO AMAZING RESULTS

LIVING EARTH GROWING YOUR BEST GARDEN WITH

PREPARE YOUR GARDEN FOR AUTUMN

PROUDLY SUPPORTING THE

PROUDLY SUPPORTING THE

MOTUTAPU RESTORATION TRUST

PREPARE YOUR GARDEN FOR AUTUMN

Autumn is prime time to enrich and condition your soil before winter sets in.

MOTUTAPU RESTORATION TRUST

Apply More than Mulch Mix 5-8cm deep around tree bases, keeping it clear of the trunk so moisture doesn’t build up against the bark.

Autumn is prime time to enrich and condition your soil before winter sets in.

Half a million trees and counting

More than Mulch Mix 5-8cm deep around tree bases, keeping it clear of the trunk so moisture doesn’t build up against the bark.

Half a million trees and counting

‘People often come into our nursery and say, Wow, what fabulous plants,’ crediting Living Earth for the results.

‘People often come into our nursery and say, Wow, what fabulous plants,’ crediting Living Earth for the results.

- Deputy Chair Bridget Winstone

- Deputy Chair Bridget Winstone

LET'S PLAN AHEAD Spring Bulbs

Spring bulbs are an easy way to bring colour and fragrance to your garden. Plant them in autumn while the soil is warm, and enjoy vibrant blooms when spring arrives, brightening beds, borders, and containers throughout the season.

Planting Autumn is the best time to plant spring bulbs, giving them the cool conditions they need to establish strong roots before winter arrives. Planting now allows bulbs to settle into the soil and prepare for a burst of colour once temperatures begin to warm in spring. Different varieties have slightly different planting windows, so check individual planting guides or ask a friendly team member instore if you’re unsure.

Spring bulbs perform best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. When planting into garden beds, loosen the soil and mix in Kings Compost to improve soil structure and add nutrients. If your soil is heavy or clay-based, incorporate pumice sand or gypsum to help improve drainage.

Alternatively, you can plant directly into a specialised mix such as Tui Bulb Mix for reliable results.

If your garden tends to become waterlogged during winter, consider planting bulbs slightly raised or in a gentle mound to prevent rot.

For pots and containers, choose a container deep enough for root growth and ensure it has good drainage holes. Plant into Tui Bulb Mix and water well after planting.

Our Top Varieties

Anemone

Add vibrant colour to your garden with anemones, which are beautiful both in the garden or as cut flowers. For a longer vase life, pick blooms a couple of days before they fully open. Plant anemones in a partly shady spot between February and March.

Popular for their colourful blooms and sweet fragrance, freesias are a great choice for any garden. Easy to grow, they provide flowers year after year. To plant, position bulbs with the pointed side facing upwards and plant in full sun from January to April.

Tulip

Tulips are known for their simple elegance and striking colours, making them a stunning addition to any garden. To ensure beautiful blooms, store tulip bulbs in the fridge for a couple of months before planting. Plant them in a sunny spot in late May for a spectacular spring display.

A free-draining mix designed for bulbs, helping roots establish while preventing rot during the wetter winter months.

Hyacinth

Hyacinth will fill your garden with colourful, fragrant blooms in spring. For best results, chill bulbs in the fridge for four to six weeks before planting. Lift bulbs once flowers and foliage die back, store in a cool, dry place, and replant next autumn. Plant in sunny spots from March to April.

Kings Compost

Elegant and ornate, ranunculus brings unique style to your garden. To help break dormancy, soak the corms in water for a couple of hours before planting. Plant them in a sunny spot from January to April for a stunning spring display.

Daffodils are synonymous with spring, and their vibrant colours make them a classic choice. With many beautiful varieties to choose from, they’re perfect for gardeners. Protect bulbs from slugs and snails during winter using Tui Quash to ensure stunning blooms in spring. Plant in full sun from February to April.

Adds organic matter and improves soil structure when mixed into garden beds. Helps create the rich, fertile soil spring bulbs need to grow well.

A fertiliser that supports strong roots and vibrant blooms. Apply at planting and during growth for healthier bulbs and reliable flowering.

SET THE STANDARD WITH Lush Lawns

A lush, green lawn is a classic part of the Kiwi backyard. Autumn is the ideal time to establish or improve your lawn, as warm soil and cooler temperatures help grass develop strong roots before winter. With a little preparation, your lawn can stay healthy year-round.

Preparing the Area

Good preparation is the key to a successful lawn. Start by clearing the area of weeds, stones, and debris. If weeds are present, treat them with a suitable weedkiller and allow enough time for them to die back before sowing seed.

Next, loosen the soil to a depth of around 10–15cm. This helps roots establish easily and improves drainage. Rake the soil to break up clumps and create a smooth, even surface. Filling low spots and levelling uneven areas now will help prevent puddling later.

For the best results, spread a thin layer of Living Earth Lawn Mix over the prepared area and lightly rake it in. This creates a nutrient-rich seed bed that supports strong germination and early growth.

Sowing Seed

Choose a lawn seed suited to your garden conditions, whether it’s for sunny areas, shade, or high-traffic spaces. Following the recommended sowing rates on the packet will help achieve an even, healthy lawn.

To ensure good coverage, divide your seed into two portions. Spread one half moving north to south, then the remaining half east to west. This simple technique helps avoid patchy areas and ensures the seed is distributed evenly.

Once sown, lightly rake the surface or sprinkle a thin layer of Living Earth Lawn Mix over the

top. This protects the seed from wind and birds while helping retain moisture during germination.

Applying a lawn starter fertiliser such as Burnet’s EzyStart Lawn Starter at planting time will support strong root development and improve early growth.

Caring for Your Lawn

Consistent watering is essential while your lawn establishes. Keep the soil lightly moist during germination, taking care not to wash the seed away with heavy watering.

Once the grass reaches around 4–5cm tall, it’s ready for its first mow. Set the mower on a high

setting and remove only the tips of the grass during the first few cuts. This encourages thicker growth and helps the lawn establish more evenly.

For the first few months, feed your new lawn with a fertiliser designed for establishing grass, such as Tui LawnForce New Lawns. Its slowrelease nutrients help support steady growth and strong root development.

As your lawn matures, regular mowing, occasional feeding, and watering during dry periods will help keep it thick, green, and healthy throughout the seasons.

A hardy lawn seed blend that germinates quickly to create a strong, durable lawn for a range of garden conditions.

Improves soil structure and adds nutrients to help lawn seed germinate quickly and establish a thick, healthy lawn.

Provides up to three months of slow-release nutrients for strong, healthy lawn establishment and growth.

Leaves and clippings piling up? Get your clean up done at your own pace, no skip hire, no fuss.

Convenient size bins up to 2m3

When your FlexiBin is full, book a collection in 3 easy steps, call us or book online. for T&C’s and collection areas

GARDEN TO PLATE Rhubarb Crumble

Rhubarb Crumble

As the weather cools and the garden starts to change colour, rhubarb is ready to shine! With its bright pink stalks and tangy flavour, it’s the perfect ingredient for a cosy family bake. This classic rhubarb crumble is simple to make, wonderfully warming, and a great way for little growers to turn garden goodness into a delicious dessert.

What You'll Need

For the fruity filling:

∙ 6 cups fresh rhubarb, chopped into 2–3cm pieces

∙ 1¼ cups white sugar

∙ ¼ cup plain flour

∙ 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

∙ ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom

For the golden crumble topping:

∙ 1 cup plain flour

∙ ½ teaspoon salt

∙ 1 cup light brown sugar

∙ 125g butter, cut into small cubes

Method

Preheat the oven to 190°C

Make the filling:

In a large bowl, gently mix together the rhubarb, sugar, flour, vanilla and cardamom. Tip the mixture into a baking dish (around 23 x 33cm) and spread it out evenly.

Create the crumble topping:

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, salt and brown sugar. Add the butter and rub it in with your fingertips until the mixture looks like chunky breadcrumbs.

Assemble:

Sprinkle the crumble evenly over the rhubarb.

Bake:

Place in the oven for 35–45 minutes, until the fruit is bubbling and the topping is golden brown.

Let it cool for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Little Growers Corner

What you'll need:

• Colourful Autumn Leaves

• Glue

• 10cm x 65cm strips of white cardboard

• Stapler

Autumn Leaf Crown Be in to Win!

Email a photo of your finished Activity to scoop@kings.co.nz

before 31 May 2026 and go in the draw to win a $50 Little Growers prize pack!*

1

Start by heading outside for a nature hunt. Gather a big bag of autumn leaves, classic tree leaves work beautifully, but any interesting shapes and colours you find will add to the fun.

2

When you’re back home, arrange your leaves along a long strip of cardboard. Overlap them to create a lush, leafy look, then glue them firmly in place.

3

Let the glue dry completely (this is the secret to avoiding leafy disasters later on!). Once dry, gently wrap the crown around your child’s head to measure the perfect fit, then staple or tape the ends together.

4

Pop it on and admire your little garden royalty — a beautiful autumn crown made by nature and you!

Pin me to the wall!

With March comes the arrival of autumn. This month, your garden is still basking in the lateseason sunshine, and fruits are at their juiciest. It’s a transitional time, full of opportunities to tend to your garden and get it ready for the cooler months to come.

YOUR AUTUMN GARDEN TO-DO LIST

Flowers And Perennials

Refresh pots or containers that are starting to look dull by planting bright annuals like salvias, marigolds, petunias, violas, and alyssum. Prune back any perennials that are fading, and replace them with new-season options like chrysanthemums, asters, and mini cyclamen. Now is the ideal time to plant spring bulbs. We have a wide selection in-store, including freesias, ranunculus, anemone, and daffodils. Don’t forget to feed with Kings Slow Release Bulb Food when planting. Stay on top of deadheading any fading blooms and provide extra nutrients with Kings Fast Food.

March

Fruit

This month is your final chance to enjoy the harvest of your pip and stone fruits. After your passionfruit vine finishes fruiting, prune it back and feed it with Kings Citrus & Fruit Tree Fertiliser, watered into the soil. Spray the vine with Aquaticus Bugtrol to tackle any signs of passionvine hopper or mealy bug. This month, give your citrus trees some extra attention. Feed them with Kings Citrus & Fruit Tree Fertiliser for a nutrient boost, and spray with Grosafe FreeFlo Copper to protect against scale and verrucosis. Boost your feijoa crop yield and extend the harvest season by planting two different varieties that fruit at staggered times.

Veggies

Prepare your veggie beds for the upcoming season by turning over the soil and incorporating Kings Compost and Kings Sheep Pellets. Now is the time to plant your winter veggies like beetroot, parsnip, broccoli, and carrots! Stagger your planting for a consistent harvest throughout winter. Start with some now, and plant the rest throughout the season. Sow seeds for leeks, spinach, silverbeet, broccoli, cauliflower, and brussels sprouts. When they have at least two sets of leaves, they’re ready to be transplanted into the garden. If you're taking a break from veggie planting, boost your soil’s nutrients for next season by planting lupins, mustard, or oats as green manure.

Indoor Plants

Keep your houseplants growing well with a seasonal liquid feed of Kings House Plant Food. Repot any remaining indoor plants before the temperatures drop.

Trees And Shrubs Plant hedges now to help them establish before next year. Some of our favourites are ficus tuffi, griselinias, and corokias.

Boost the nutrients in your soil by gently digging in any leftover summer mulch around the base of trees and shrubs.

General Tasks

Add a layer of mulch around your hedges and shrubs to help keep those pesky weeds in check. Keep an eye on your plants, early detection is key to preventing any unwanted pests or diseases.

Lawns Get your lawn ready for sowing by raking up leaves to create a smooth, even surface for your new seed. Use a weed killer like Yates Zero Triple Strike to eliminate weeds, but wait at least three weeks before sowing new seed after application. Inspect your lawn for any bare spots and fill them in with a Burnet’s Lawnseed Patch Pack. For newly sown lawns, water daily until the grass seed has germinated.

Grow well with

Aquaticus Bugtrol Organic protection against common garden pests and fungal disease. Safe for edibles and ornamentals

Kings Slow Release Bulb Food Fertilises plants for up to three months. It is specially formulated with an emphasis on flower and bulb development.

Kings Compost Mix into your original garden soil for organic nutrients, as well as helping to improve drainage.

MARCH ESSENTIALS

Pin me to the wall!

April’s warm days offer the perfect chance to get outside and prepare your garden for the changing seasons. Use this time to refresh your garden beds, tidy up your outdoor space, and prepare for the colder months.

AUTUMN GARDEN TO-DO LIST

YOUR

Flowers And Perennials

Add vibrant colour to your autumn garden with flowers like calendula, alyssum, poppies, viola, and pansies. They look fantastic in pots and hanging baskets. After chilling your tulip and hyacinth bulbs for 4 to 6 weeks, they’re ready to be planted. Deadhead your roses once they’ve finished blooming. Replace any spent annuals with autumn and winter varieties, available in our potted colour and seedling ranges.

April

Fruit

Figs are arriving in-store this month! They thrive in both pots and the ground, but make sure to stay on top of watering to keep your fruit healthy and delicious. Give your fruit trees a nutrient boost with Kings Citrus & Fruit Tree Fertiliser. As your feijoas begin to ripen, start harvesting. Remove any fruit affected by guava moth, but be sure not to compost these.

Veggies

Begin planting your winter veggie garden now with leek, spring onion, lettuce, cauliflower, broccoli, spinach, and bean seedlings for a tasty winter harvest. Collect heirloom seeds and dry them on a sunny windowsill. Be sure to label them properly with their variety and date so you don’t forget! If your veggie beds are still producing, dig in a mix of Kings Compost and Kings Sheep Pellets to give them a nutrient boost.

Indoor Plants

This is your final chance to take cuttings for propagation, as they’re less likely to survive once the cooler weather arrives. As the weather cools, your indoor plants will require less water. Be sure to adjust their watering schedule accordingly.

Trees And Shrubs

General Tasks

New season camellias are instore and ready for planting. They thrive in full sun to part shade, depending on the variety. Feed with Kings Azalea, Camellia, and Rhododendron Fertiliser to keep them healthy and happy. Plant hedges while the soil is still workable. For medium to large hedging, consider ficus tuffi, griselinia, and pittosporum, and for a smaller, wellmaintained hedge, opt for corokia and buxus.

After plenty of use over the summer, now’s the perfect time to give your bird bath a good clean. If you have flax or cabbage trees, remove any dead or damaged leaves to prevent them from getting caught in the lawn mower.

Lawns

Tackle weeds in established lawns with Yates Weed ‘n Feed. After applying, wait at least three weeks before sowing any new lawn seed. Apply an even layer of Kings Lawn Fertiliser to your existing lawn and water it in thoroughly. As the days get shorter, start reducing the frequency of mowing.

Yates Weed 'n' Feed

Grow well with

Yates Weed 'n' Feed provides selective control of most broadleaf weeds in lawns with added fertiliser for healthy green lawns.

Kings Citrus Food Improves taste, colour and size of citrus and fruit trees, while also promoting growth and healthy foliage.

Kings Sheep Pellets

A great organic fertiliser for all of your plants, trees and shrubs, helping to improve soil structure.

APRIL

Pin me to the wall!

As the cooler weather starts to set in, May offers the perfect chance to complete those final autumn tasks and get your garden ready for winter. While the temperatures may be dropping, the garden is still alive with vibrant colour.

LIST

YOUR AUTUMN GARDEN TO-DO

May

Flowers And Perennials

Add some vibrant potted colour to your garden beds with plants like white alyssum, calendula, pansies, stock, primula, polyanthus, viola, and sweet peas. Bring some brightness to your winter garden with cyclamen. These tough perennials thrive in shady spots, whether in pots or directly in the ground. Plant hellebores under trees for long-lasting, sweet blooms year after year. Plant spring bulbs in well-draining soil—whether in pots or straight in the garden, they’ll look stunning. Swap out any faded flowers in your hanging baskets for seasonal colour, and feed them monthly with Kings General Garden Food.

Fruit

This month, plant out feijoas and citrus trees. Get your strawberry beds ready for new plants that will arrive in winter. Once your grapevines have shed all their leaves, it's time for a good prune. Start planning your urban orchard, deciduous fruit trees will be hitting stores by mid-June. Think about which varieties you'd like to try, but be sure to leave at least 4 metres of space between each tree.

Veggies

It's time to plant your winter veggie seedlings— broccoli, cauliflower, silverbeet, spinach, and cabbage. Make sure to cover them with frost cloth to keep them safe from the cold. Choose a sunny winter spot to plant your garlic and shallot bulbs. Trim back any spindly herbs. If your parsley has gone to seed or bolted, swap it out for a new plant. Keep the weeds in check around your seedlings to help them thrive. Use bug netting or Tui Quash to guard them from slugs and snails.

Indoor Plants

As temperatures cool down, cut back on watering your houseplants. Plan ahead for the shorter winter days by finding the best spots for your indoor plants to get the right light. As the weather cools, pests like aphids, mealy bugs, and scale can make an appearance. Keep an eye out for any signs of these pests and act fast if you spot them. A regular spray with Groventive will help prevent an infestation.

General Tasks

With cold temperatures approaching, move your frostsensitive plants to a sheltered spot and cover larger plants with frost cloth for protection.

Trees And Shrubs

Add native and drought-tolerant plants to the overlooked spots in your garden. Mix Kings Compost and Kings Sheep Pellets to ensure they get plenty of nutrients. Fill any empty gaps with hebes, nandinas, and coprosma to bring warm autumn colours to yourgarden. Give established trees a boost with Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster, and top them off with Living Earth More Than Mulch. When planting new trees and shrubs, sprinkle a scoop of Kings Slow Release Garden Food into the hole for the best start. Trim your hydrangeas back to about half their size.

Grow well with

Quash Easy to apply slug and snail pellets which are safer to use around children, pets and wildlife than most other baits.

Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster Help your outdoor plants grow well with this all-purpose organic fertiliser.

Living Earth More Than Mulch Contains bark which creates a barrier between the sun and earth, keeping plants hydrated for longer.

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