Treeshop - Indigenous Tree Nursery

I met Piet and Sandra at their nursery north of Pretoria one Friday morning. Piet was six metres up a tall ladder busy welding a steel structure (new shade structures) while Sandra was walking through the farm keeping track of orders and attending to client requests. Piet and Sandra are both nature enthusiasts who love birdwatching, hiking and travelling South Africa. It is through their passion for the bush that Piet’s hobby of growing trees started. Both look fit and energetic and once they start talking about their business their passion and enthusiasm is contagious.

Piet explained how he presented a course at the University to engineering graduates preparing them for working in the corporate environment. One of the modules taught that when you start working you should have a retirement plan in place for when you reach the end of your working career. The theory explains that you should “start a hobby that you enjoy that can become a stream of income when you retire” and so Piet decided to put the theory that he taught into practice.

Sandra took me through the well organised Nursery - a treasure trove of Indigenous Trees

Piet took a percentage of his retirement savings and invested it towards the tree growing business which originally only started as a hobby. Sandra explains that his first seedlings were grown on the covered patio of their home in Vanderbijlpark. It is from here that they developed the business for a period of 12 years while Piet was still employed. During this period they purchased the farm where the nursery is now established. When Piet retired they moved to Pretoria where he was able to focus all his energy to further develop the farm, automate some of the tree cultivation processes and expand Treeshop’s species offer. Piet uses his engineering background to design new technology that benefits the business – from growing seedlings in trays made with 3D printing technology to building new greenhouses.

The new shade structures under construction

Sandra has a vast knowledge about all the trees and plants that they grow

The nursery is continuously expanding and through Piet and Sandra’s passion and dedication it is also innovating as they aim to become the best supplier of indigenous trees in Southern Africa. It boasts a wide range of indigenous trees of varying sizes and they are specifically attempting to grow trees that are not easily available in cultivation because they are either difficult to grow or find.

Pittosporum viridiflorum (Cheesewood)

Rothmannia globosa (September Bells)

The nursery also includes a bonsai range and it is amazing to see miniature versions of indigenous trees. They have also positioned themselves as forerunners in the market for growing potted trees. These are ideal if you have limited space or if you want to enjoy indigenous trees in situations that would otherwise be impossible to plant such as patios, balconies or small gardens.

Potted Trees are ideal for difficult to grow situations

Most of the trees that they grow are adapted to the climatic conditions of the Highveld, although some are from warmer parts of the country (eg. Albizia, Commiphora, Sterculia). However, the farm receives temperatures of -4 so they are exposed to colder conditions. Always check frost sensitivity of a tree before deciding to plant it.

If you need help choosing indigenous plants or trees for your garden have a look at the ebook I have written at ebook.sproutlandscapes.co.za. The e-book will guide you to decide what steps to take for your own garden in a simple and encouraging way. There are several plant palettes to help you make correct plant choices including shrubs for screening, trees for screening, and planting in sunny or shady conditions.

Combretum hereroense (Russet Bushwillow)

Most of the trees that Treeshop grow can be seen on their website but they also grow more unusual species so if you are looking for something specific it would be best to contact them directly to enquire.

Treeshop Nursery sells quality indigenous trees directly to the public and people can purchase through their website www.indigenoustrees.online or by emailing Sandra.

A variety of tree sizes are available - these Ilex mitis (Cape Holly) trees are in 200l. bags

8 Indigenous Trees for Screening

Trees for Screening

Many landscapes require screening between the edges of a property for privacy or the addition of height for softening of buildings. Mostly you would be looking for evergreen trees with attractive foliage and non-aggressive roots. When designing a tree screen I like to use a combination of tree heights and foliage texture. Here are some lovely indigenous screening trees to consider:

1. Olea europaea subsp. africana (Olive Tree)

Olea europaea subsp. africana is a neatly shaped, hardy, evergreen tree with a dense spreading crown (9 x 12 m) of glossy grey-green to dark-green foliage. Leaves are grey-green to dark-green above and greyish below. The rough, grey bark sometimes peels off in strips. Sprays of tiny, lightly scented white to greenish flowers (October to February) are followed (March to July) by small, spherical, thinly fleshy fruits (either sweet or sour) which ripen purple-black. The Latin name for olive is olea; europaea = from Europe, and africana = from Africa. Don't plant it too close to walls, patios or swimming pools, the root system can sometimes be aggressive. (http://pza.sanbi.org/olea-europaea-subsp-africana)

Olea africana (Image from SunTrees Nursery)

2. Buddleja saligna (False Olive)

Buddleja saligna is a medium sized tree usually 4 to 5 metres in Highveld areas. This fast growing tree is an excellent, quick screen plant. It grows up to 800mm per year. Use it as a pioneer tree for your forest garden. It also makes a very good clipped hedge. It is evergreen, frost hardy and drought resistant and the masses of flowers make a lovely spring and summer show. It will grow in most soils but added compost will improve performance. It may need cutting back after flowering to keep tidy. The false olive does not have an aggressive root system. The flowers attract insects (especially moths) and therefore insect feeding birds such as Robins and Apalises to the garden. (http://pza.sanbi.org/buddleja-saligna)

Buddleja saligna (Image from CJM Nursery)

3. Ilex mitis (Cape Holly)

Ilex mitis is a hardy, small to medium sized, evergreen tree with almost white bark. It has a graceful rounded crown of glossy, dark green leaves that are purplish-red when they first flush.

Massed clusters of small, sweetly scented, white flowers are borne from October to February. (Male and female flowers on separate trees, therefore only female plants bear fruit). These are followed by tightly packed decorative red berries that attract flocks of fruit eating birds. It grows better in moist conditions near water but can withstand dry conditions. With its beautiful shape it makes a good avenue tree. Although this beautiful rounded tree can grow to huge proportions in forest conditions, it is normally a small to medium sized tree. The leaves are used as a soap substitute. Size 3 to 8m (Information from Random Harvest Website)

Ilex mitis (Cape Holly) Image from Just Trees Nursery

4. Vepris lanceolata (Ironwood)

Vepris lanceolata is a hardy, evergreen, very attractive tree with apple green foliage. It blooms with a myriad of small, white flowers from December to January, which give the tree a lacy look. The black berries ripen throughout the autumn and winter and are an important source of food for the birds. The tree is host to the Citrus Swallowtail Butterflies. A beautifully shaped tree and a very good garden subject that can be used as a screen or container plant for outdoors or indoors. The non-aggressive root system makes it ideal for smaller gardens. The timber is even-grained and white. It has many medicinal uses. Size 5 to 10m (Information from Random Harvest Website)

Vepris lanceolata (Ironwood) photographed in Random Harvest Nursery

5. Rapanea melanophloes (Cape Beech)

Rapanea melanophloes is a hardy, small to medium sized, evergreen tree with dark leaves that have a purplish cast to them. It also has really attractive bark. The small greenish-white flowers from May to July attract insects and bees. These are followed by small purple fruits that are borne in profusion close to the stems which attract fruit eating birds. A good garden subject and a useful addition to screen planting with its unusual colour foliage. The wood is used for making furniture and violins and has many magical and medicinal uses. Size 4 to 10m (information from Random Harvest Website)

6. Noltea africana

Noltea africana is a very hardy, evergreen, very fast growing, small to medium sized tree. The glossy leaves are darker above and paler underneath, and have purple petioles. The branchlets are also purplish-red. The flowers are pretty, small, white sprays borne in the axils of the leaves from August to September. The black seeds are encased in a three-lobed, brown woody capsule that splits to release them when ripe. A decorative tree that is ideal for the smaller garden but should be kept as a single stem. Grows well in sun and semi-shade. A good tree to plant for a quick screen. When twigs and leaves are rubbed in water it becomes soapy. Size 2 to 6m (Information from Random Harvest Website)

Noltea africana (Soapwood) plantbook.co.za

7. Loxostylis alata (Tarwood)

A small, well-shaped tree with glossy foliage tinged with red when young and masses of white flowers in early summer, and if the tree is a female it has showy pinkish red fruits. Tarwoods are evergreen, ornamental trees which will grow in a wide range of ecological habitats. This tree closely resembles the Brazilian pepper tree, Schinus terebinthifolius of the same family, which does not have the characteristic red sepals. This is a very attractive small tree or large shrub for gardens. It is also useful for screening and boundary plantings. It grows to 6 m or higher in favorable conditions, but can form a large, dense shrub. Other recommended trees in this family are the red currant (Rhus chirindensis), wild-plum (Harpephyllum caffrum) and the marula (Sclerocarya birrea). (http://pza.sanbi.org/loxostylis-alata)

Loxostylis alata (Tarwood) from SANBI Website

8. Cryptocarya traansvaalensis (Mountain Wild Quince)

Cryptocarya transvaalensis is a hardy, evergreen large tree with beautiful glossy dark green foliage. The leaves are blue-green below. The inconspicuous flowers are borne in the axils of the leaves from December to February. These are followed by glossy red to purple berries that are decorative and attract fruit eating birds to the garden. This species is declining as the bark is used for medicinal purposes. It makes a beautiful container plant and if you have the space a magnificent specimen tree. It stays smaller when grown in full sun. Size up to 12m (Information from Random Harvest Website)

There are many many other screening trees that can be used so don’t let this list limit you!

Sprout 5th Birthday Competition

To celebrate Sprout’s 5th Birthday this year a special competition was hosted where a landscape upgrade worth R10 000 was up for grabs. The lucky winner of the competition was Lauren Gray and the prize included a landscape consultation and small area upgrade.

Here are a few images of the proposal and the garden upgrade:

Before - panorama looking towards house

Proposed Visual Impression

Before

This is the area that was chosen to be upgraded. It consisted of a large existing Strelitzia shrub, some Agaves and several large boulders. The aim was to move the boulders to create a larger lawn area and improve the flow of the garden as one connected space. The boulders proved much larger below the ground than what the eye could see so the landscape contractor (GenGrow) brought a TLB to site to assist with moving the boulders and leveling the area. Following this, new lawn was planted to tie into the existing lawn areas. A relatively small change to an established garden that will hopefully make a big difference to the way the garden is used and enjoyed by this lovely family.

During Installation

After - lawn to establish and tie in together, some succulents to still be planted around boulders

If you have a garden that is in need of an upgrade feel free to contact me to arrange a consultation.

gina@sproutlandscapes.co.za

10 Essential Plants for a Rewarding Vegetable Garden

A Vegetable Garden should be filled with plants that can be harvested for use in the kitchen and home. A wide range of foliage size, colours and textures add interest and variety to planting combinations. I especially love herbs and the beautiful landscapes you can create using them. Here are the top ten plants I recommend every Vegetable Garden should have:

1. Perennial Basil ‘White’ (Ocimum basilicum)

Large, highly aromatic leaves with spikes of white flowers from early spring to late autumn. Leaves can be used in cooking wherever a basil taste is required. Its cold hardy nature will ensure the availability of basil right through winter. Shrub. Height: 80cm Width: 80cm.

Perennial Basil - Medium sized shrub with beautiful flowers

2. Cleveland Sage (Salvia clevelandii)

A hardy, small woody shrub with velvety, textured oval green-grey leaves. Sage tolerates most climates however it does not like to be over watered. Requires really good drainage and a slightly alkaline soil. The foliage is used in pot pourii and in natural insecticides. Shrub. H:1.5m W:1m.

Cleveland Sage - large shrub with beautiful foliage

3. Mint (Mentha spicata spp.)

Most well known of the mints with tasty, highly aromatic mint flavored leaves. The mint is extensively used for salads, sauces and teas. Used medicinally. Useful natural insecticide. Perennial. H:40cm W:spread.

Mint - several varieties to choose from including Chocolate Mint, Ginger Mint and Liquorice Mint

4. Dutch Lavender (Lavandula dentata)

An herbaceous shrub with deeply serrated, highly aromatic green leaves. Large blue flowers are borne on long stems from spring through to autumn. Has medicinal properties. Dried leaves and flowers can be used in pot pourii. Shrub. H:80cm W:60cm

Lavender - grey or green foliage varieties, beautiful aroma and foliage

5. Common Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

Mauve flowers in summer with small mid green fragrant leaves. Used in stews, soups, salads and sauces. Medicinally has antifungal and antibacterial properties. Ground cover. H:30cm W:30cm.

Lemon Thyme - Thymus x citriodorus

Thyme - ‘Silver Posie’ variety on left and common green thyme on right

6. Fennel Bronze (Foeniculum vulgare ‘Rubrum’ purpureum)

Very striking, bronze, fine feathery leaves. Umbells of small yellow flowers in summer followed by aromatic edible seeds. Used in pork and fish dishes and a great addition to salads. Medicinal uses. Perennial. H:1m W:0.6m.

Bronze Fennel - adding beautiful and unusual foliage colour and texture

 7. Blue Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis ‘McConnel’s Blue”)

Small aromatic shrub with small spiky dark green leaves and blue flowers. Hardy, prefers chalky well drained soil. The leaves are used in Mediterranean cuisine. Companion plant with Sage. Medicinal. Shrub. H:80cm W:80cm.

Rosemary - not always easy to grow, but a brilliant shrub and culinary herb

8. Golden Upright Oregano (Oreganum spp.)

Striking golden foliage that add interest and colour to the herb garden. Ideal for container gardening or as a contrast plant. Strong Oregano flavor. Ground cover. H:30cm W:30cm

Golden Oregano - contrasting colour to add interest

9. Spearmint (Mentha spicata aquatica)

Hardy, deep green, highly aromatic, serrated oval spearmint flavored leaves. Greatly prized for jellies and sauces. Used in confectionary, cosmetics, natural insecticides and medicines. Ground cover. HL25cm W:spread

Spearmint - small bushy shrub with a brilliant green colour

10. Lemon Scented Geranium (Pelargonium citronella)

The deeply indented green leaves are pungently aromatic when crushed, releasing lemon scented plant oils that deter even the most determined mosquito. Shrub. H:60cm W:50cm.

Pelargonium citronella - good for repelling insects, especially mosquitoes!

Plant Descriptions taken from Doonholm Specialist Wholesale Nursery Website (https://doonholm.com/)

Why Planting Indigenous Plants will make you Happier

Red Hot Poker - Crane Flower - Yellow Honeysuckle

Many gardens today are still strongly influenced by the European style of clipped hedges and formal layouts, but the South African garden is emerging as a strong aesthetic. Indigenous gardening is becoming increasingly popular due to the environmental benefits, growing awareness of sustainable practices and the rising knowledge of locally indigenous plants.

Here are five reasons why you should plant indigenous plants, not only for yourself but for the benefit of the environment:

1.       Indigenous plants are adapted

They are suited to the prevailing conditions of the area in which they are found which means that they often have low water requirements and can withstand the temperature fluctuations and seasonal changes of that particular region. This also means that once established they should be self-sustaining, hardier and able to withstand general disturbances.

2.       Indigenous plants support indigenous animal life

Indigenous plants provide food and shelter to local animal life such as birds, insects, frogs and reptiles. The plants support local insects, which in turn support local birds and ultimately a life-supporting harmonious cycle is created. Interestingly butterflies will only lay their eggs on specific host plants, almost always indigenous species, so in order to attract these beauties into your garden you need to plant their host plant.

3.       Indigenous gardens allow for habitat creation and connection

Large areas of natural habitat is destroyed daily to make way for urban development. Fragmentation of vegetation and animal populations puts these healthy systems in jeopardy. If your garden can replace some of this lost vegetation it can create corridors for the local insect and bird life to move along.

4.       Planting indigenous is environmentally responsible

Planting indigenous plants is beneficial to the environment and the ecology which we would like to conserve for future generations. Knowing that your actions today preserve future interactions with local plants and animals for future humans is deeply encouraging.

5.       We have an amazing selection of plants!

South African plants are cultivated all over the world although many South Africans do not realise the variety and diversity of indigenous plants available to them (some 23,000-plus species). There are so many plants to choose from and an exciting journey of discovery awaits.

Now is always a good time to start. Why not visit some local indigenous nurseries to be inspired and learn more about the beautiful plants locally suited to your area.

Crassula ovata - Aloe arborescens - Tulbaghia violacea

Zantedeschia aethiopica - Agapanthus praecox

5 Things to Consider when Planning a Vegetable Garden

Having an area where herbs, vegetables and fruits can be found at various times throughout the year can be incredibly rewarding. Any homemaker knows the joy of stepping outside and picking perfectly fresh herbs to compliment the evening meal. Likewise many of us have childhood memories of climbing fruit trees in back gardens and can recall the delight of discovering edible treasures.

The landscapes we live in need to be a provider in order to benefit us and bring value to the community in which we live. I give my neighbour lemons and she gives me sweet potatoes in exchange. Sharing the joy of gardening and tending the earth is something that not only brings delight to an individual, it also has the ability to bring people together, provide food during times of shortages and educate the next generation.

It would be beneficial for every homeowner to introduce fruit trees, herbs and edible plants into their garden. While fruit trees can be planted anywhere, a vegetable garden is often a designated area where there are beds assigned to edible plants so that it can be easily maintained and cared for.

Now that you are planning a Vegetable Garden here are 5 things to consider:

1.       Choose the right Position

Most vegetables and herbs require full sun so choose the position of the vegetable garden carefully. If your garden is very shady it is unlikely that you will be able to have a successful vegetable garden so you may want to consider cutting back some trees or introducing free-standing planters on paved areas.

2.       Soil

A whole science on its own, soil needs to be healthy and consist of organic matter, earthworms etc to make sure it is well aerated so that plants will grow well in the medium it is planted in. If soil is too sandy or compacted or clayey it will need to be modified. The best way to do this is to create a compost heap with old leaves and garden matter that is regularly turned and will eventually create compost that can be used in your garden beds.

3.       Access

You need to be able to move in and around the plants in order to harvest them, watch for pests, prune and replace and also to get full enjoyment from them. Pathways can be made from brick, pavers, gravel or bark chip.

4.       Planting

There has been a lot of research into companion planting and also plants which can naturally repel pests such as Tulbaghia violacea (Wild Garlic), Nasturtiums, Tansy, Marigolds, Cotton Lavender and Geraniums. I also like to have several bushy herbs (Rosemary, Lavender, Sage) and perennial plants (Salvia, Helichrysum, Nemesia) that look good throughout the year so that when certain plants aren’t looking great these still add colour and structure to the garden.

5.       Focal Points

In landscape design (as in every artwork) there needs to be certain elements that bring a sense of order, balance and beauty to the landscape. This can be created using focal points and other elements that the eye is drawn towards so that the observer takes in their surroundings and as a whole this atmosphere influences their experience and ultimately their mood. In order to create this atmosphere one can use pots, obelisks, trellises, arches and other objects to create that beauty on the canvas.

Vegetable gardens do not have to be forlorn and ugly. In fact if you have been to Babylonstoren in the Cape you will know that their vegetable garden is unbelievably beautiful and inspiring. Another amazing place to visit for inspiration is The Herb Farm in Midrand. So good luck and let the journey begin!

Gina Switala - Landscape Architect

5 Unusual Red Flowering Indigenous Plants

1. Sutherlandia frutescens (Cancer Bush)

Sutherlandia frutescens is a very hardy, evergreen, fast growing, sun-loving shrub with lovely silver-grey foliage. The striking, large, luminous orange pea-like flowers are borne from September to December. They attract Sunbirds and insects to the garden. These are followed by inflated green to pink, papery pods that are so light they are dispersed by wind. The pods and flowers are decorative in a vase. It is an important medicinal plant and has traditional uses as well. This beautiful slender shrub is a must for any garden. Plant several together for effect and use as a textural plant. It makes a beautiful container plant. It is both wind and drought resistant. This is a short-lived plant but it seeds itself freely.

Prune regularly to encourage it to bush out. This unfussy plant tolerates many different soil types and tolerates dry conditions but thrives with sufficient water (do not overwater). Plant in full sun. Size: to 50cm to 1m (https://www.randomharvest.co.za/South-African-Indigenous-Plants/Show-Plant/PlantId/695?Plant=Sutherlandia%20frutescens)

2. Ruspolia hypocrateriformis (Red Ruspolia)

Ruspolia hypocrateriformis is a fairly hardy, evergreen, scrambling woody shrub with bright green foliage. The spikes of showy pink to red flowers with darker spots on their lower petals are borne at the tips of new growth throughout summer and into autumn. Butterflies are attracted to the garden by the large amount of nectar that these flowers produce. The flowers are followed by a dry capsule which splits with a loud crack to release the seed within. Makes an interesting garden subject as a shrub and is said to make a good hedge.  It is not readily available in nurseries. Plant in full sun or semi-shade, in fertile, well-drained, loamy soil. Size: 1m but can climb to about 4m (https://www.randomharvest.co.za/en-us/South-African-Indigenous-Plants/Show-Plant/PlantId/510/Plant/Ruspolia-hypocrateriformis)

3. Erythrina acanthocarpa (Tambookie Thorn)

The tambookie thorn is a much branched, deciduous, thorny shrub reaching up to 2m in height. The striking flowers are scarlet with the upper petal edged with green and are held in heads up to 10cm long and about 12cm wide. This is a very attractive shrub when in flower and makes an excellent garden specimen. Care should be taken not to plant it alongside paving as the large underground rootstock may cause the paving to lift. It performs best in a full sun position planted in well drained soil. Do not overwater and keep relatively dry in winter. It is frost hardy. (http://pza.sanbi.org/erythrina-acanthocarpa)

(Image from Wildflower Nursery)

4. Crossandra greenstockii (Bushveld Crossandra)

Crossandra greenstockii is a beautiful little perennial that sprouts annually from a woody rootstock and looks stunning on a rockery. It flowers for quite a long time in summer. Flowers can either be orange or red. It grows in well-drained acid soil amongst grasses. The flower stalks emerge erectly from basal rosettes of broad green, unevenly lobed leaves.

Interplant Crossandra greenstockii with grasses in full sun. It responds well to a fertile, well-drained soil. (https://wildflowernursery.co.za/indigenous-plant-database/crossandra-greenstockii/)

5. Gloriosa superba (Flame Lily)

Gloriosa superba is a striking climber with unusual and beautiful, red and yellow, flame-like flowers in summer; it is suitable for shade or sun, and is easy to grow. The slender stems are produced annually and are upright to scrambling and can grow up to 4 m long. Tubers sprout in spring, and a tuber sends up 1 to 6 stems. The leaves are shiny, bright green and are tipped in a tendril, which will cling to anything it touches. The stems die back in late summer and the tubers are dormant during winter. PLEASE NOTE: that all parts of this plant, both above and below ground, but particularly the tubers, are extremely poisonous, and ingestion could be fatal. The plants contain the alkaloid colchicine. It is a widely used and effective medicinal plant, but incorrect dosage has caused human deaths. Use with extreme caution and only under guidance of a qualified practitioner. Keep the tubers and the seed capsules away from pets and children and do not let the sap come into contact with your mouth or eyes while working with them, as it can cause skin irritation. The tubers are poisonous to grazing stock. (http://pza.sanbi.org/gloriosa-superba)

While most people prefer to have a landscape filled with the tried and tested plants it can also be exciting to experiment with unusual plants that can bring an element of surprise and interest to your garden.

Which Unusual Indigneous Plant is your favourite?

University of Pretoria - Roosmaryn

Roosmaryn Concept Phase Plan

Brief

The site was identified by the University of Pretoria as an area to be allocated for students to spill out into from the large adjacent Thuto lecture hall and have a stong connection to this building even though it is separated by a vehicular road. The site also needed to respect the heritage building called Roosmaryn on its boundary.  There were existing trees but otherwise the site was bare and the soil exposed as seen by the images below:

Stormwater

Civil Consult was appointed as the consulting engineer to address the inadequate stormwater infrastructure as the site often experienced flooding. The area serves as a catchment for water surface run-off from several adjacent parking lots and paved areas. Permeable paving options were investigated but the ultimate decision taken was to use an underwater catchpit (infiltration trench) that releases water into the surrounding soil over time with overflow going into the existing stormwater system.

Site Leveling - During Construction

Circulation

The primary focus of the design was to improve circulation through and across the site and in this way the site becomes a node for students to stop and pause while on their way to their destination. It is close to an important entrance at Prospect Street which is the main access from Hatfield and formalised pathways are used to create connections along existing desire lines.

Creating a raised pedestrian crossing over the road to connect the site to Thuto came at the expense of several parking bays, but this was an important decision as this area was meant to be strongly linked to the Thuto building and allow for easy access between these areas.

New Pedestrian Crossing Built over the Road - Improving Connections

Social Spaces

The next important requirement was to create ‘social learning spaces’ for students to sit and interact. Students are encouraged to stop, rest, study, socialise and use this space as their own through use of the seating walls, paved area and lawn area. The paved area includes a giant chess set so a game of chess can also be enjoyed in between classes. The irony that this project was built to encourage student interaction and connection during a time when social distancing is being encouraged does not escape me. I do hope that the future holds opportunities for humans to interact with one another in outdoor spaces and share the joy of being in a beautiful outdoor environment.

Seating Wall with Chess Board in Paving

UP Containers

Three concrete plinths were built to activate certain areas of the site. These were built for custom designed storage containers that will serve as wifi hotspots and shelters where students can charge their laptops or cellphones. The containers are still to be installed.

Vegetation

All existing trees were maintained and incorporated into the design. Only a few new trees, namely Caledendron capense, were included which will create a unique atmosphere once mature and in flower. Several shrubs were included to create a diverse landscape that has a variety of foliage and texture such as Burchelia bubalina, Syncolostemon densiflorus, Leonotis leonorus, Bauhinia natalensis and Rhus burchelli . Anisodontea scabrosa was selected to compliment the Roosmaryn building as well as ‘softer’ plants such as Agapanthus and Scabiosa. Existing shaded areas were planted with Carissa ‘Green Carpet’, Hypoestes aristata, Plectranthus spp, Orthosiphon labiatus and Barleria ‘Rosea’.

A grass mix was used in the area that receives sun and is located behind a seating wall for when it looks less attractive during winter. The grassland plants were incorporated to provide an opportunity for the University to see how this type of landscaping can work on campus, learn maintenance techniques and also to provide education for the students. Landscaping with grasses is a relevant landscaping style and this was an opportunity to showcase the beauty of South African grasses and grassland species. Some of the species included Eragrostis gummiflua, Dimorphotheca jucunda, Melinis nerviglumis, Andropogon eucomis, Aristida junciformis, Pelargonium sidoides and Helichrysum umbraculigerum.

Future Overlays

The project lays an important foundation of circulation and structure for further activity layers to be superimposed onto it. It is hoped that future art installations, events and food trucks planned for the site will bring a send of fun and vibrancy that will enrich the students experience at the University. I will post more photographs of this project once the plants have established in a few months time.

Screening with Indigenous Shrubs

Most gardens require screening in some form whether it be screening from neighbouring properties or screening of unsightly items such as rainwater tanks or the compost heap. Screening is also the layer of shrubs that can be planted along your boundary wall to soften it and create that backdrop of foliage that adds visual beauty to a garden. I also like using shrubs where space needs to be filled up, for example an empty corner is often a great spot for a screening shrub with colourful planting below.

Here are some beautiful screening shrub options:

Plant Information taken from either http://pza.sanbi.org/ and/or https://www.randomharvest.co.za/ and/or https://kumbulanursery.co.za/

1. Polygala myrtifolia (September Bush)

Polygala myrtifolia is a common, evergreen, widespread pioneer shrub with pretty mauve flowers on and off throughout the year with a peak in spring, hence the names Augustusbossie and September bush. All polygalas also have a showy, and very distinctive brush-like tuft on the keel. The showy petals, beautifully marked with darker veins, are usually in shades of mauve or purple, but can also be pink scarlet, or white. The fruit is a small, winged capsule. Polygala myrtifolia is an attractive evergreen shrub able to adapt to most gardens and gardeners. A tough shrub suitable for low maintenance and water-wise gardens. In the new garden it is excellent as a fast growing windbreak, hedge and colourful shrub able to grow in most soil types from full sun to semi-shade. Size 1 to 3m.

Polygala myrtifolia

2. Maytenus bachmannii (Willow Koko Tree)

Maytenus bachmannii is a very pretty evergreen shrub with small, narrow leaves that have pink stalks.

It bears abundant, small, white flowers that have pink stalks from January to March and attract insects to the garden. It then bears red berries for most of the year. 

This is a well-shaped, excellent garden plant that can be pruned to make a stunning small hedge or topiary. Plant in sun or semi-shade in compost rich soil. Size 1 to 3m

Maytenus bachmannii

3. Diospyros lycioides (Blue Bush)

Diospyros lycioides is a very hardy, deciduous, drought resistant, fast growing shrub or small tree. This exciting shrub or small tree is a very tough plant which grows well country-wide. Its most attractive features are its smooth bark, blue-green leaves, fragrant flowers and colourful fruits that attract many birds and insects.

It bears sweetly scented, white, bell-shaped flowers from September to December that attract butterflies and other insects.  The edible berries are large, red and decorative and also attract birds. As with all Diospyros spp. sexes are on separate plants, therefore only female plants bear fruit. Plant in sun or semi-shade. Makes a beautiful small tree when pruned as a standard. It grows well in rocky areas. Twigs traditionally used for toothbrushes and all parts are used medicinally. Size 2 - 7m.

Diospyros lycioides

4. Halleria elliptica (Rock Tree- Fuschia)

An excellent medium-sized shrub or small tree, that fits well into both large gardens planted in groups and smaller gardens used singularly. Halleria elliptica is best suited to semi-shaded and shaded areas, in any type of soil. Hardy, adaptable and very versatile, they can be used as specimen plants or in mixed plantings. As part of a shrubbery, it will provide colourful vibrancy when in flower. It tolerates some morning or afternoon sun, and can be used in full or dappled shade, even doing well planted under trees. Halleria elliptica is valuable in horticultural due to its versatility, pretty fuchsia-like flowers and attractiveness to both nectar- and fruit-eating birds, as well as many insects.

The fleshy fruits are edible and taste sweet, although they tend to dry the mouth out. They are ripe and juicy when black in colour. Fruits can be eaten fresh or stored for a while, consumed raw, or made into a jelly/jam. The common names tree-fuchsia and wild-fuchsia come from the plant’s fuchsia-like flowers and the Afrikaans common name, kinderbessie, meaning 'children's berry', is related to how much children enjoy the taste of the fruits.

A relative of Halleria ellpitica is H. lucida, which has medicinal, traditional, spiritual and construction uses, particularly for the Zulus. Halleria elliptica grows in the Western Cape and being so much smaller and more shrub-like, it was not utilized as much in these traditional ways.

Halleria elliptica

5. Clerodendrum myricoides (Blue Cat’s Whiskers)

Rotheca myricoides (= Clerodendrum myricoides) is a fairly hardy, medium sized, evergreen, very decorative shrub with beautiful foliage. It has massed spikes of purple flowers in spring and summer which attract the beautiful Carpenter Bees. The edible fruit attracts birds to the garden. Plant in sun or semi-shade in well-composted soil. Prune regularly to encourage it to bush out and keep producing flowers. A beautiful shrub for small gardens and containers. Size 2 to 3m

Clerodendron myricoides

BristleCone Wholesale Nursery

Sheep grazing in the meadows create picturesque views of Farm-life

It is always a treat to escape the hustle of Johannesburg and spend time in nature so it was with great delight that, along with a few fellow landscape architects, I visited Leon Scholtz on his farm in the Skeerpoort, Hartbeeshoek area. While walking through the magnificent garden and growing tunnels of BristleCone Leon chatted to us about the nursery’s history and where the landscaping industry is moving towards.

After obtaining a degree in Horticulture Leon Scholtz bought a piece of land in 1974 and together with his wife Elize they started the nursery called BristleCone. The name BristleCone refers to a species of Pine that is the oldest living plant on the planet and is also highly resilient to harsh weather and poor soils. Bristlecone pines grow at high altitudes in arid regions of the Western United States. Bristlecones, along with all related species in the class Pinopsida, are cone-bearing seed plants (commonly known as conifers) and the name is derived from the prickles on the female cones. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bristlecone_pine)

The Garden

At the inception BristleCone was only growing and selling Conifers as there was a high demand for those plants. They branched out into succulents and expanded their range to include Aloes, however, in 1976 these were hit by severe frost and all of them died. Temperatures on the farm can drop to -4 degrees Celsius so all plants that are grown need to be frost hardy. Frost is not the only challenge that farm life holds. Every South African will know some of the challenges that face farmers on a daily basis include: hail storms, veld fires, crime threats, and labour relations.

BristleCone grows a large variety of ornamental grasses - this display garden shows the combinations of colour and texture and mature height of species

In the 1980s Leon started growing Grasses but nearly got rid of them all before the market caught on to the value of Grasses in landscaping and stock started moving. This was certainly ahead of the curve as landscaping with grasses is still very popular. They also grow fruit trees, also a very important trend in landscaping, although they have reduced their range to smaller bag sizes.

Currently 50% of the plants that BristleCone is growing are Indigenous. They also grow a wide variety of colour plants such as Osteospermum, Geraniums, Plumbago and 25 vareties of Agapanthus (looking so stunning at the moment I must add). They have a wide range of interesting ornamental grasses, certain specialist species and unique form plants-many from Mexico. Leon’s son Dewald is currently in charge of Production and has won SANA Young Grower of the Year Award.

Leon walking us through his nursery

Leon has traveled extensively and his plant knowledge is incredible. The passion he displays for the plants and his business is tangible and can be seen through his active Instagram account @bristle_cone_nursery

Snippet taken from BristleCone’s Website “We source our plants and plant selections from all over the world. Our aim is to grow plants suitable for our environment. Trails for new or improved selections are grown on the farm and selected for production if suitable.

We specialize in plants in general with the emphasis on trendy plants for landscapers, indigenous plants for rehabilitation and indigenous projects and connoisseur plants for collectors and the Niche Market.

The main aim with new plant selections is to find plants that are more disease resistant, more water wise and more compact and tidy to reduce clipping or cutting back too often. We recommend mulching of all plants after planting to reduce loss of water and weed growth.”

BristleCone Nursery is known for its family values, warm hospitality and most importantly, its outstanding plant quality and continues to be a front-runner in the growing and landscaping industry.