A family-run wholesale nursery at Willoughby Road in Katikati, in the Western Bay of Plenty. Steve Hart started the business more than 40 years ago, and his sons John and Lyle now run it, with Steve still involved in the daily work.
The nursery specialises in kiwifruit rootstock, including Bruno rootstock and G3 plants, and in shelter trees such as Cryptomeria (Japanese cedar) and Casuarina, along with hedging. Kiwifruit plants are grown under the Kiwifruit Vine Health and Kiwifruit Plant Certification Scheme, and they are sold only to commercial growers with a KPIN orchard identification number.
Shelter trees are grown in planter bags and in the field. Plants are ready to collect from mid-May onwards, and the website says winter is the best time to plant. Delivery can be arranged through tree and plant transport companies. Collection needs one to five days' notice, and the nursery asks people to phone ahead before visiting.
Vehicles and trailers must be clear of any other plant material before they enter the nursery, and all open loads must be covered before leaving.
The nursery is at 34 Willoughby Road, RD3, Katikati. Phone John Hart on 021 783 234 or Lyle Hart on 027 788 3344. Our pick in Katikati for an orchard or shelter planting that needs well-grown, healthy stock.