Discover trees at Portman Park

WESTVILLE’S Portman Park has been upgraded with tree labels. The park is the Westville Conservancy’s project they have been working on since June 2021 with the aim of transforming and rehabilitating the park.

Also read: Reviving Portman Park

Previously, the park was mowed extensively and invasive alien plants were out of control. With the work done by volunteers of the conservancy, now the natural grassland, wetland and riverine forest areas are flourishing.

The park offers a walking trail, plus a shady picnic area, and it has become a place for families, nature lovers and dog walkers to enjoy.

Recently, the conservancy put up tree labels in Portman Park as part of their long-term goal.

“The labels have the name of the tree, and if you would like to know more, you can use the QR scanner on your phone to access the link to our website, where you will find detailed information about the tree. The labels have been placed on trees around the picnic area and along the nature trails. We have identified 19 different species – see how many you can find.

Also read: Keeping Westville green with indigenous plants

“There are further changes at the entrance garden which volunteer Al Nicoll made by sourcing numerous flowering ground covers, shrubs and trees, all carefully selected to attract bees, butterflies and birds. Already the butterflies are enjoying the nectar of those that are flowering, and an amethyst sunbird was spotted on one of the aloes,” reported the conservancy.

The conservancy said they are looking forward to following the development of this garden as the different plants start to grow and flower.

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