Irene Garden - a natural alternative

This picture depicts part of a garden on a large property, being predominantly indigenous and "wild" i.e. with local trees, shrubs, loads of aloes and grasses etc. In this instance, only close of the house is the garden more formal and structured. Going the indigenous and wild option is great way to bring in local birds and insects back, thereby creating a healthy "micro - climate".

This way of "gardening" is a new trend in South Africa (and hopefully it'll stick for a long time) to create more naturalistic gardens, obviously in the aim of greater ecological impact. In fact most developments are obliged to go the indigenous and water wise route - music to my ears!!!

Irene is a small historical village on the outskirts of the greater Pretoria area. For more info on Irene, click here

Picture credit: Gena D Photography

Herb & Vegetable Gardening

In my recent article on herb and vegetable gardening, one of the options I suggested was making a raised bed in order to plant your edible garden. The latest copy of SA Garden (South African magazine) shows some wonderful examples of how you can do this, very easily with wood, logs and other items. See pictures/ article for inspiration.....

To read my previous article on "Growing your own Herbs and Vegetables " click here

Alter Eco (TV Show)

For those of you who, are concerned about the state of our environment, and also enjoy interesting "eco friendly" programmes, here's one for you. I was pleasantly surprised to come across this show recently, on how changes are being made and taught in a fun way to old and young alike, which can make a positive impact on the planet.

The programme covers virtually all areas from home and garden, travel, technology, fashion to food, amongst others. On the Planet Green website you can also access some really interesting articles such as : Garden Smart with Companion Planting; How to Grow your Own Micro Greens; Organic Gardening Tips, etc...

Since doing what we can for the environment is something worth standing up for, here's the link: http://planetgreen.discovery.com/tv/alter-eco/ - look it up, and spare the time.

Also if you enjoy it, pass on the the info!!

Have a great weekend!

G

Postscript: 27 Jun 09: In South Africa DSTV Channel 182

Picture: Taken on the banks of the Magalies River, at the Old Mill, Magaliesburg South Africa

The Use of Gravel and Stone in gardening

As the world becomes more sensitive to the environment and water usage, it requires gardeners and garden designers alike to become more creative in how to deal with these real issues. One method of conserving water, is through the use of gravel and stone in garden design and layout.

See article on : http://www.gardenhomedesign.co.za/blog/?p=205 for more details.

G
Picture: Gena D Photography