How To Grow And Care For Kauri Trees In New Zealand

Kauri Tree Care

Caring for Kauri trees is about making sure the plants are thriving. Our plant care articles provide the necessary details to give you the greatest chance of success. Afterall, there is nothing worse than putting the effort into planting for them to fail. Therefore, follow our advice and give yourself the best chance of success!

How Can I Protect My Kauri Tree From Kauri Dieback Disease?

There are several things you can do to protect your Kauri tree from dieback disease:

• Clean your footwear and equipment before entering a kauri forest. You can do this by scrubbing your soles with a brush and disinfectant, and then rinsing them with clean water.
• Avoid disturbing kauri roots. If you need to work near a kauri tree, take care not to damage the roots.
• Be aware of the signs of kauri dieback disease. The symptoms of kauri dieback disease include yellowing leaves, wilting branches, and gum bleeding from the trunk. If you see any of these symptoms, contact the Department of Conservation for guidance.
• Small trees can be sprayed with a copper fungicide if any issues become evident.

What Care Does A Kauri Tree Need?

Kauri trees need regular watering, especially when young. They also need to be protected from pests and diseases such as scale and mealy bug when they are young. Young trees should be staked to reduce chances of wind damage and fed with a fertiliser for Kauri trees in spring.

Kauri dieback disease has become a serious threat to kauri trees, so it is important to take steps to prevent the spread of the disease. Small trees can be sprayed with a copper fungicide if any issues become evident.

What Do I Do If My Kauri Tree Becomes Infected With Kauri Dieback Disease?

If your kauri tree becomes infected with kauri dieback disease, there is no cure. However, there are some things you can do to slow the spread of the disease and protect other kauri trees:

• Isolate the infected tree. This means preventing people and animals from coming into contact with the tree and its roots. You can do this by putting a fence around the tree or by creating a buffer zone around the tree.
• Remove any infected material. This includes fallen leaves, branches, and fruit. Dispose of infected material carefully to avoid spreading the disease.
• Monitor the tree for signs of the disease and consult with Department of Conservation about next steps.

Young trees can be sprayed with a copper fungicide to offer protection and in cases, cure the issue.

Kauri Tree General Information

There is a wealth of information about Kauri trees and The Plant Company is often asked specific questions which we have laid out in this section.

Can I Harvest Kauri Gum?

Yes, you can harvest kauri gum. However, there are some restrictions on where and how you can harvest it. Kauri gum is a valuable resource, and it is important to harvest it sustainably. You should check with the Department of Conservation before any harvesting takes place.

How Fast Do Kauri Trees Grow?

Kauri are slow-growing trees and it can take up to 100 years for a kauri tree to reach maturity. Moreover, they can live for thousands of years. The growth rate depends on the climate, soil conditions, and the amount of sunlight the tree receives. Kauri trees grow best in warm, sheltered positions with moist, well-drained soils. They are not tolerant of strong winds or cold temperatures. In ideal conditions, a young kauri tree can grow up to 30-50 cm per year. However, the growth rate of a kauri tree will slow down as the tree gets older.

The largest kauri tree in New Zealand is Tane Mahuta, which is estimated to be over 2,000 years old. Tane Mahuta has a trunk that is over 13 metres in circumference and a height of over 51 metres.

If you are planting a kauri tree, it is important to be patient and to provide the tree with the best possible growing conditions. Kauri trees are a precious resource and are worth the wait.

How Long Does It Take For A Kauri Tree To Grow?

Kauri trees are slow-growing trees. It can take up to 100 years for a kauri tree to reach maturity. However, they can live for thousands of years.

How Many Kauri Are Left In NZ?

The exact number of kauri trees remaining in New Zealand is difficult to determine due to the vastness of their distribution and the challenges of accurately surveying them. However, estimates suggest that there are approximately 40,000 mature kauri trees left in the country. This represents a significant decline from the millions of trees that once existed, with logging and kauri dieback disease being the primary causes of their loss.

Here is a breakdown of the estimated number of mature kauri trees in different regions of New Zealand:

• Northland: 30,000
• Auckland: 5,000
• Waikato: 2,000
• Bay of Plenty: 1,500
• Coromandel Peninsula: 500

The Department of Conservation (DOC) is working to protect and restore kauri forests through a variety of initiatives, including controlling kauri dieback disease, planting new trees, and fencing off kauri stands. These efforts are essential to ensure the survival of this iconic New Zealand tree species.

What Are The Benefits Of Growing The Kauri Tree?

Growing a Kauri tree (Agathis australis) offers a multitude of benefits for both the environment and those growing them:

• Kauri trees create biodiversity, and their presence supports a wide variety of other plants and animals. They provide habitat for birds, insects, bats, and even geckos. Their dense foliage creates a cool, moist microclimate that many creatures depend on.
• Kauri trees form a unique symbiotic relationship with mycorrhizal fungi, which help them absorb nutrients and water. This contributes to soil health.
• Kauri trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, helping to combat climate change and improve air quality.
• They are majestic and iconic trees and add beauty and value to any landscape.
• Kauri trees are deeply significant to Maori culture and hold a special place in New Zealand's history. Planting a kauri tree is a way to connect with this heritage.
• Growing a kauri tree can be a valuable learning experience for children and adults alike. It teaches us about the importance of conservation and the interconnectedness of nature.
• While sustainable kauri logging is no longer practiced, mature kauri trees can be valuable for tourism and recreation.

If you are wanting to buy Kauri trees, shop with confidence from the best in the industry, The Plant Company.

What Do Kauri Tree Leaves Look Like?

Kauri tree leaves are a light green colour when borne and age to become bronze in colour. However, as the tree matures (age 20 onwards), the foliage reverts to a darker green colour. Young leaves also transition from being soft to touch to having a tough and leathery texture. The leaves themselves are flat, oblong, and 3 to 7 cm long. They are about 1 cm wide and are arranged in opposite pairs or whorls of three around the stem.

What Does A Kauri Tree Look Like?

Kauri trees go through a dramatic transformation as they mature, resulting in two distinct appearances:

Young Kauri:

• Young Kauri trees start with a slender, pointed form, resembling a Christmas tree.
• They have bronze-coloured leaves which eventually matures to a bright green as the tree grows.
• Young Kauri have branches all the way down their trunk. As the tree ages, these die and are shed.

Mature Kauri:

• A mature Kauri has a massive, column-like trunk which can reach up to 16 metres in girth!
• The upper branches spread outwards, forming a majestic canopy above the forest floor.
• The bark becomes a characteristic greyish colour with a unique pattern resembling hammer marks due to the flaking process.
• Mature trees produce a sticky sap called kauri gum, which oozes from the bark and hardens into a valuable resin.

What Is Special About Kauri?

Kauri trees are truly special trees, holding a unique place in the natural world and in New Zealand's heritage. Here are some of the reasons why they are so special:

• Majestic Size and Longevity: Kauri trees are among the largest and longest-living trees in the world. Some individuals can reach over 50 meters (164 feet) in height and have a trunk girth of up to 16 meters (52 feet). They are also estimated to live for over 2,000 years, making them true giants of the forest.
• Endemic and Ancient Lineage: Kauri trees are endemic to New Zealand, meaning they are found nowhere else in the world. Their lineage dates back to the Gondwanan supercontinent, making them one of the oldest tree lineages on Earth.
• Ecological Importance: Kauri forests play a crucial role in New Zealand's ecosystem, providing habitat for a wide variety of plants and animals. They also regulate water flow, prevent soil erosion, and contribute to the overall health of the forests.
• Cultural Significance: Kauri trees hold deep cultural significance for Māori, the indigenous people of New Zealand. They have been used for carving, construction, and medicinal purposes for centuries. Kauri trees are considered taonga, meaning they are sacred treasures with spiritual and cultural value.
• Natural Beauty and Resilience: Kauri trees are renowned for their natural beauty, with their towering stature, broad canopy, and distinctive bark. Despite facing threats like logging and kauri dieback disease, these trees have shown remarkable resilience, adapting to changing environments and persisting over millennia.
• Symbol of New Zealand: Kauri trees are widely recognized as a symbol of New Zealand, appearing on coins, stamps, and in literature. They represent the country's natural heritage, its connection to ancient times, and its ongoing efforts to protect and conserve its unique biodiversity.
• Scientific Significance: Kauri trees continue to be studied by scientists for their unique genetic makeup, their ability to withstand environmental stressors, and their potential for medicinal compounds. They offer valuable insights into the evolution of plants and the resilience of life on Earth.
• Inspiration for Artists and Writers: Kauri trees have inspired countless artists, writers, and musicians throughout New Zealand history. Their grandeur, symbolism, and connection to Māori culture have sparked creativity and storytelling.
• Tourist Attraction: Kauri forests are popular tourist destinations, drawing visitors from around the world to witness the majesty of these ancient trees. They provide opportunities for hiking, camping, and experiencing the beauty of New Zealand's natural heritage.
• Conservation Efforts and Hope for the Future: Dedicated conservation efforts are underway to protect kauri trees from threats and ensure their future survival. These efforts involve controlling kauri dieback disease, restoring kauri forests, and raising awareness of their importance. With continued conservation and public support, there is hope for these remarkable trees to continue thriving in New Zealand's landscapes for generations to come.

What Is The Oldest Kauri Tree In New Zealand?

The oldest Kauri tree in New Zealand is challenging because accurately dating them is difficult. However, the two oldest Kauri trees, both located in the Waipoua Forest of Northland, are Te Matua Ngahere and Tāne Mahuta. Te Matua Ngahere is aptly named "Father of the Forest," and is estimated to be 1,200 to 4,000 years old. While not the largest Kauri, it is of immense age and size. Tāne Mahuta is the largest living Kauri tree and is estimated to be between 1,250 and 2,500 years old. It was named after the Maori god of forests. Both are magnificent specimens and well worth seeing.

Where Is There A Giant Kauri Tree In NZ?

There are several giant kauri trees in New Zealand, but the most famous one is Tāne Mahuta, located in the Waipoua Forest of Northland Region. It's estimated to be between 1,250 and 2,500 years old.

Some other notable kauri trees in New Zealand include:

• Te Matua Ngahere, also known as "Father of the Forest", is another giant kauri in Waipoua Forest, estimated to be between 2,500 and 3,000 years old.
• Tānenui, located on the Coromandel Peninsula, is the third largest living kauri and is estimated to be between 1,200 and 1,500 years old.
• Tairua, also on the Coromandel Peninsula, is the fourth largest living kauri and is estimated to be around 1,000 years old.

These are just a few of the many giant kauri trees that can be found in New Zealand.

Planting And Growing Kauri Trees In NZ

Planting Kauri trees and getting them to grow well is generally easy when you get a few of the basics right. This involves planting them in the right soil type, choosing the most ideal planting position, and ensuring the plants have the essentials to thrive. The Plant Company has the right advice to ensure success!

Can I Grow Kauri In A Pot?

Kauri trees can grow kauri in a pot. However, it is important to choose a large pot with plenty of drainage holes and use a free draining potting mix. You will also need to water your Kauri regularly and add controlled release fertiliser every six months.

If you plan to bring the tree indoors, ensure that it still receives at least six hours per day of bright, natural light. With insufficient light it will become ‘stretched’ and unsightly within a few months.

Can I Plant A Kauri Tree In NZ?

You can certainly plant a kauri tree in New Zealand. Kauri trees grow best in warm, sheltered positions with moist, well-drained soils. They are not tolerant of strong winds, so it is important to choose a planting location that is also protected from wind.

Here are some tips for planting Kauri trees:

• Prepare the planting site by removing any weeds or other vegetation.
• Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball of your tree.
• Place the tree in the hole, backfill with soil, and firm down gently to remove any air pockets.
• Water the plant well after planting and keep up the regime until you see the tree starting to grow.
• Mulch around the tree with bark chips or other organic matter to preserve moisture and suppress weeds.

With proper care, your kauri tree will thrive!

Can I Prune A Kauri Tree?

Yes, you can prune a Kauri tree. This usually involves removing branches from the trunk or shaping the tree. However, it is important to be careful not to over-prune kauri trees, as this will slow down the growth and make it more susceptible to disease. If you are unsure about how to prune a kauri tree, it is best to consult with a qualified arborist. The Plant Company recommends only minimal pruning so no more than one-third of the foliage is ever removed each year.

How To Find Healthy Kauri Trees In NZ

The Plant Company prides itself on growing and sourcing the best plants for our customers. Strict quality standards mean that only the best Kauri trees will ever be dispatched. We have a several Kauri species that thrive in New Zealand’s climate. Each plant is packed with extreme care, ensuring it arrives to you in the same condition it was in at its nursery. Our impressive google ranking is testament to how well we perform so you can shop with confidence from the best in the industry.

What Is The Best Way To Start Growing Kauri Tree?

The best way to start growing Kauri is from seed. Seed can be collected from mature trees in autumn. They should be soaked in water for 24 hours before planting in pots and can take several weeks to emerge. The seedlings will be slow growing, and it may be 12-24 months before you have a tree that is large enough to be transplanted safely and survive.

A faster option for growing Kauri is to purchase one from The Plant Company. Our Kauri are ready to be planted into the landscape and come in a variety of sizes. Check them out and save yourself years!

Where Can I Grow A Kauri Tree?

Kauri trees grow best in the warm, northern regions of New Zealand, above latitude 38°S. They prefer moist, well-drained soils in sheltered positions. Kauri can be grown in coastal areas, but they are not tolerant of strong winds.