Humans are social animals. Most of us are happier and more successful if we live and interact with others. The same goes for many plants.
Melville Koppies volunteer Jenny Grice explained that ground orchids, commonly known as a green wood orchids or moederkappies, are flowering on Melville Koppies now.
It has delicate whitish-greenish petals, nothing like the showy ones in the shops.
“It cannot survive without the fungus that surrounds it in the ground. The fungus provides water and nutrients to the orchid’s roots.
“The orchid in turn sends down food that it makes through photosynthesis to nourish itself and the surrounding fungus. It relies on hawkmoths to pollinate it.”
Visit Melville Koppies quickly before the orchids are over.
The facility is open Sunday mornings between 08:00 and 11.30.
Join a guided tour at 08:00 to learn more about why Melville Koppies is both a nature reserve and heritage site or do the self-guided heritage trail.
“Challenge yourself on the 5km trail (twice if you’re up to it) or just meander at your own pace along the many paths. It is suitable for all ages,” said Grice.
There is safe parking (opposite the Melville Koppies entrance) at Marks Park Sports Club in Judith Road, Emmarentia, and security on the Koppies is provided.
The cost is R90 per person, R50 for under 18s and a season ticket for a year per adult is R500 (not transferable).
All income generated is used for maintenance of the Koppies.
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