Posts by Troppo

07 Feb

Troppo Articles

🍌 Preventing Banana Plants from Falling Over: A Simple Support Method 🍌

• April 28, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Banana plants are heavy feeders and fast growers, producing lush foliage and large fruit bunches. However, their shallow root systems and top-heavy nature make them prone to falling over, especially in high winds or when bearing heavy fruit. While traditional methods involve staking or tying them ba...

Continue reading

06 Feb

Troppo's Plant Collection

Bird of Paradise 'Strelitzia Juncea' – The Leafless, Elegant Bird of Paradise

• February 18, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

There's a unique beauty in the Bird of Paradise 'Strelitzia Juncea,' known for its striking leafless appearance and elegant form. As you explore this fascinating plant, you'll discover its fascinating adaptations and striking floral spikes that can turn any garden into a tropical paradise. This info...

Continue reading

05 Feb

Troppo's Plant Collection

Bird of Paradise 'Heliconia Subulata' – A Tall and Dramatic Garden Statement

• February 18, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Paradise awaits in your garden with the stunning Bird of Paradise 'Heliconia Subulata'. This striking plant stands tall and demands attention, making it an exceptional choice for creating a bold landscape statement. Known for its vibrant foliage and unique flower structure, you can elevate your outd...

Continue reading

04 Feb

Troppo's Plant Collection

Bird of Paradise 'Heliconia Subulata' – A Tall and Dramatic Garden Statement

• February 18, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Paradise awaits in your garden with the stunning Bird of Paradise 'Heliconia Subulata'. This striking plant stands tall and demands attention, making it an exceptional choice for creating a bold landscape statement. Known for its vibrant foliage and unique flower structure, you can elevate your outd...

Continue reading

03 Feb

Troppo's Plant Collection

Blueberry – Growing High-Yield, Sweet-Tasting Blueberries in Warm Climates

• February 18, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

With the right techniques, you can successfully grow high-yield, sweet-tasting blueberries in warm climates. This blog post will guide you through selecting the best blueberry varieties for warmer temperatures, understanding their specific growing needs, and implementing effective care practices for...

Continue reading

02 Feb

Troppo's Plant Collection

Canna ‘Edulis Queensland Arrowroot’ – A Multipurpose Perennial for Food and Ornamental Value

• February 18, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Perennial plants like the Canna 'Edulis Queensland Arrowroot' offer unique advantages for both your garden and kitchen. This versatile species not only enhances your landscape with its vibrant foliage and striking flowers, but it also serves as a valuable food source. You can utilize its starchy rhi...

Continue reading

01 Feb

Troppo's Plant Collection

Bird of Paradise ‘Heliconia Tortuosa Orange Twister’ – Exotic Blooms for Lush Gardens

• February 18, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Most garden enthusiasts seek to create a stunning oasis filled with vibrant colors and exotic plants. One such treasure that can elevate your landscape is the Bird of Paradise 'Heliconia Tortuosa Orange Twister'. With its striking orange and green foliage, this unique plant not only adds visual inte...

Continue reading

01 Feb

Troppo Articles

Action Items for the Month of February Vege Planting in Bay of Plenty, NZ

• April 28, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Welcome back to the Tropo blog! February in the Bay of Plenty is a fantastic time to get your hands dirty and plant some delicious veggies. The heat of summer is starting to ease, and the soil is still warm, creating perfect growing conditions for a variety of crops. Whether you're a seasoned garden...

Continue reading

31 Jan

Troppo's Plant Collection

Canna ‘Giant Var’ – Large and Showy Leaves for Bold Landscapes

• February 18, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

There's a world of stunning foliage waiting for you with the Canna 'Giant Var'. These striking plants are not just visually impressive; they can transform your outdoor space into a vibrant oasis. Known for their large, showy leaves, Cannas offer a bold statement that can enhance any landscape. Let's...

Continue reading

30 Jan

Troppo's Plant Collection

Banana 'Snow' – A Rare and Unique Banana for Enthusiasts

• February 18, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Banana 'Snow' is a fascinating cultivar that stands out among its peers, offering a unique flavor and appearance that will intrigue your senses. If you're a banana enthusiast or simply curious about rare fruit varieties, this exotic species deserves your attention. With its strikingly pale skin and ...

Continue reading

29 Jan

Troppo's Plant Collection

Banana ‘Royal Hawaiian AeAe’ – The Ultimate Collector’s Striking Variegated Banana

• February 18, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Collector's delight, the Banana 'Royal Hawaiian AeAe' offers a stunning display with its eye-catching variegated leaves and unique growth pattern. This rare banana cultivar not only enhances your garden aesthetics but also serves as a conversation starter among fellow plant enthusiasts. Growing this...

Continue reading

28 Jan

Troppo's Plant Collection

Blackberry 'Thornless Rubus Ulmifolius' – Sweet, Juicy Berries Without the Thorns

• February 18, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Over the years, you may have longed for the delight of fresh blackberries without the battles against sharp thorns. The Blackberry 'Thornless Rubus Ulmifolius' offers a perfect solution, producing an abundance of sweet, juicy berries that are easy to harvest. With its thornless nature, you can enjoy...

Continue reading

27 Jan

Troppo's Plant Collection

Bird of Paradise 'Strelitzia Reginae' – The Classic and Timeless Orange Bloom

• February 18, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Bird of Paradise, specifically the 'Strelitzia Reginae', captivates you with its striking orange and blue blooms that resemble a tropical bird in flight. This vibrant plant not only adds a burst of color to your garden but also symbolizes exotic beauty and resilience. Whether you're a seasoned garde...

Continue reading

26 Jan

Troppo's Plant Collection

Bird of Paradise ‘Heliconia Schniediana’ – A Hardy and Showy Tropical Bloom

• February 18, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Bird of Paradise 'Heliconia Schniediana' is a stunning addition to any tropical garden, captivating your senses with its vibrant colors and unique shape. This hardy plant not only thrives in warm climates but also attracts pollinators like hummingbirds, making it a valuable asset for biodiversity in...

Continue reading

25 Jan

Troppo's Plant Collection

Bird of Paradise ‘Heliconia Tortuosa Yellow Twister’ – A Rare Golden Heliconia for Collectors

• February 18, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Just when you think you've seen it all in the world of exotic plants, the 'Heliconia Tortuosa Yellow Twister' emerges as a rare gem for your collection. This vibrant golden variety not only showcases stunning visual appeal but also offers you a unique opportunity to enhance your garden or indoor pla...

Continue reading

24 Jan

Troppo's Plant Collection

Bird of Paradise ‘Spoonbill’ – A Rare and Elegant Bird of Paradise Species

• February 18, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Over the years, you may have stumbled upon fascinating tales of the avian world, but few compare to the enchanting allure of the Bird of Paradise 'Spoonbill.' This extraordinary species captivates bird enthusiasts and casual observers alike with its unique features and graceful demeanor. As you dive...

Continue reading

23 Jan

Troppo's Plant Collection

Bird of Paradise ‘Nicolai Giant White’ – A Grand Statement Plant for Tropical Gardens

• February 18, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

It's time to elevate your tropical garden with the stunning Bird of Paradise 'Nicolai Giant White.' This magnificent plant is renowned for its striking foliage and impressive stature, making it a focal point in any lush landscape. You will love how its elegant white flowers and dramatic leaves can t...

Continue reading

22 Jan

Troppo's Plant Collection

Canna Lily ‘Tropicanna Black’ – Dramatic Dark Foliage with Striking Blooms

• February 18, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

There's a stunning addition waiting to elevate your garden space: Canna Lily 'Tropicanna Black'. Featuring dramatic dark foliage that creates a bold backdrop, this plant also boasts striking blooms that will catch the eye of any passerby. With its unique coloration and vibrant flowers, you can enhan...

Continue reading

21 Jan

Troppo's Plant Collection

Cactus 'Echinopsis Chamaecereus' (Peanut Cactus) – The Low-Maintenance Flowering Wonder

• February 18, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

You'll discover that the Cactus 'Echinopsis Chamaecereus', commonly known as Peanut Cactus, is an exceptional choice for both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts. This fascinating succulent not only captivates with its unique appearance and vibrant blooms but also thrives with minimal care. Nat...

Continue reading

20 Jan

Troppo's Plant Collection

Canna ‘Tropicanna Gold’ – Bright and Lush Tropical Foliage for Stunning Displays

• February 18, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

It's time to elevate your garden with the vibrant beauty of Canna 'Tropicanna Gold'. This stunning plant offers bright, lush tropical foliage that creates eye-catching displays in any landscape. You'll love how its bold colors and dramatic leaves can transform your outdoor spaces into a paradise of ...

Continue reading

20 Jan

Events and Community Engagement, Food Forests of New Zealand (www.foodforests.nz)

Brett’s Omanawa Food Forest Tour in the Bay of Plenty

• April 27, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Brett’s down-to-earth, true blue Kiwi approach to cultivating a thriving food forest in the Bay of Plenty is nothing short of inspiring. His philosophy revolves around keeping things simple, practical, and genuinely accessible, ensuring that anyone—whether a seasoned grower or a complete newbie—can ...

Continue reading

19 Jan

Troppo's Plant Collection

Basil – The Aromatic Culinary Herb Essential for Any Garden

• February 18, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Many gardeners consider basil to be a must-have in their herb garden due to its vibrant flavor and versatility in the kitchen. This fragrant herb not only enhances your favorite dishes but also thrives in various climates, making it an accessible addition to your gardening efforts. By cultivating ba...

Continue reading

18 Jan

Troppo's Plant Collection

Acacia – The Versatile and Resilient Tree for Every Tropical Garden

• February 18, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Just imagine transforming your tropical garden with the addition of an acacia tree; it offers both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits. With their fast growth, drought resistance, and ability to improve soil health through nitrogen fixation, acacia trees are a fantastic choice for your landscape...

Continue reading

17 Jan

Troppo's Plant Collection

Annona – Rare and Delicious Exotic Fruit Trees for Food Forests

• February 18, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Most enthusiasts of food forests are often unaware of the extraordinary potential of Annona trees, which produce rare and delicious fruits like cherimoya, soursop, and sugar apple. These exotic trees not only enhance biodiversity in your garden but also provide unique flavors that can elevate your c...

Continue reading

16 Jan

Troppo's Plant Collection

Apple – Growing and Caring for Tropical Apple Varieties in Warm Climates

• February 18, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Most people may not realize that tropical apple varieties can thrive in warm climates, providing you with delicious fruit and a unique gardening experience. In this post, you will learn the necessary steps for cultivating and nurturing these trees, ensuring they flourish despite the heat. From choos...

Continue reading

15 Jan

Troppo's Plant Collection

Agave 'Tequilana Blue' – The Essential Plant for Homegrown Tequila and Landscaping

• February 18, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

There's a fascinating world waiting for you with the Agave 'Tequilana Blue, the key ingredient in authentic tequila and an eye-catching addition to your landscape. This remarkable plant not only produces the beloved spirit but also offers a striking aesthetic with its sharp, silvery leaves. By ...

Continue reading

14 Jan

Troppo's Plant Collection

Alternanthera 'Party Time' – Colorful Foliage for Vibrant Landscaping

• February 18, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Most garden enthusiasts are always on the lookout for unique plants that can add vibrant colors and character to their landscapes. One such standout is the Alternanthera 'Party Time', known for its striking multicolored foliage that thrives in various conditions. This plant not only enhances the aes...

Continue reading

13 Jan

Troppo's Plant Collection

Aeschynanthus Parvifolium 'Lipstick Plant' – Exotic Hanging Beauty for Indoor Greenery

• February 18, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Lipstick plants are a stunning addition to your indoor garden, offering vibrant, tubular flowers that bloom throughout the year. With their cascading vines and lush green foliage, Aeschynanthus Parvifolium can enhance any space, making it feel more alive and inviting. However, be cautious, as overwa...

Continue reading

12 Jan

Troppo's Plant Collection

Alocasia Frydek Variegated – The Must-Have Rare Tropical Houseplant

• February 18, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

With its strikingly variegated leaves and unique appearance, the Alocasia Frydek Variegated has become a must-have for plant enthusiasts like you. This rare tropical houseplant is not only visually stunning but also brings a touch of the exotic right into your home. However, it's crucial to note tha...

Continue reading

11 Jan

Troppo's Plant Collection

Aloe Vera – The Ultimate Medicinal and Skincare Wonder Plant

• February 18, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

It's hard to overstate the benefits of Aloe Vera, a plant revered for its medicinal properties and skincare benefits. From alleviating sunburn and promoting wound healing to hydrating your skin and soothing digestive issues, this versatile wonder plant can be a game-changer in your health and beauty...

Continue reading

10 Jan

Troppo's Plant Collection

Asparagus – Nutrient-Rich Perennial Superfood for Sustainable Growing

• February 18, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Just think about incorporating asparagus into your garden as a nutrient-rich perennial superfood; it offers incredible health benefits while being remarkably easy to grow sustainably. This versatile vegetable is packed with important vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can enhance your diet an...

Continue reading

09 Jan

Troppo's Plant Collection

Amorphophallus Konjac (Voodoo Lily) – The Exotic Edible with a Unique Bloom

• February 18, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

There's a fascinating plant that you might find intriguing: Amorphophallus Konjac, commonly known as the Voodoo Lily. This exotic edible is celebrated not only for its culinary potential but also for its strikingly unique bloom, which can reach impressive heights. While it can be toxic if consumed i...

Continue reading

08 Jan

Troppo's Plant Collection

Apricot 'Ketcot Tropical' – A Rare Warm-Climate Apricot for Unique Orchards

• February 18, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Ketcot Tropical apricot is a remarkable variety that brings exotic flavors to your orchard, thriving in warmer climates where typical apricots struggle. With its sweet, juicy flesh and resistance to diseases, this apricot not only enriches your fruit harvest but also offers unique advantages for you...

Continue reading

01 Jan

Troppo Articles

The Art of Hibiscus Grafting: A Guide to Creating Unique and Resilient Plants

• April 28, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Introduction Hibiscus grafting is an exciting and rewarding horticultural technique that allows gardeners and plant enthusiasts to create unique hibiscus plants with desirable traits. By combining the strengths of different varieties, you can enhance the beauty, resilience, and adaptability of your ...

Continue reading

01 Jan

Troppo Articles

Get Growing in the New Year! Your January Veggie Planting Guide for Bay of Plenty, NZ

• April 28, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Welcome to the start of a new year, and for us green thumbs here in the sunny Bay of Plenty, that means it's prime time to get some delicious veggies in the ground! January offers a fantastic window for planting a variety of crops that will thrive in our warm, humid climate. This guide will walk you...

Continue reading

05 Nov

Troppo Articles

Detailed Strategic Plan for the Food Resilience Initiative in Te Puke Region (2025-2030)

• April 28, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Vision: By 2030, Te Puke Region will have a thriving, equitable, and sustainable food system that meets community needs and enhances the local environment, characterized by strong local production, community engagement, and cultural relevance.    Overarching Goal: To significantly enhance f...

Continue reading

03 Nov

Crop Swap Te Puke region, Events and Community Engagement, Food Forests of New Zealand (www.foodforests.nz), Te Puke Community Garden, Te Puke Region Food Co-op, Troppo Articles, TROPPO's Food Forest in Te Puke, BOP (www.foodforest.org.nz)

Vector Group Food Resilience Feasibility Study: Te Puke Region

• April 28, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Feasibility Study for Vector Group Charitable Trust's Food Resilience Vision in Te Puke Region Table of Contents Executive Summary Project Overview: Vector Group Charitable Trust's Food Resilience Vision Defining Kai Resilience, Food Resilience, Food Security, and Food Sovereignty in ...

Continue reading

22 Oct

Events and Community Engagement

Kiwifruit naming 65th anniversary celebrated in Te Puke

• April 27, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

We (Vector Group Charitable Trust/Troppo) are proud to support and collaborate with our community and other organisations like Epic Te Puke. A great night, we provided video and photo coverage of the event. Photos here https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1MkNG-7PRdBTCjv3BTA8Sd3L7-AqCr1i8?usp=s...

Continue reading

11 Oct

Events and Community Engagement, Food Forests of New Zealand (www.foodforests.nz)

Regional Kai Resilience Hui, Food Forest Tour and Ōmanawa Falls

• April 27, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

Nau mai, haere mai—welcome to the Regional Kai Resilience Network Hui in Ōmanawa! This special gathering was designed to bring together passionate individuals and communities dedicated to strengthening food resilience and fostering deeper connections through shared knowledge, time, and resources. T...

Continue reading

25 Aug

Troppo Articles

NZ Issues Red Alert Over US-Banned Weedkiller Linked to Health Risks

• April 28, 2025
• By Troppo
• 0 comments

The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has issued an urgent warning advising people to stop using a commonly used weedkiller due to serious health concerns, particularly its potential effects on unborn children. The alert comes after the EPA initiated an investigation into the herbicide Dac...

Continue reading