FOR some, gardening may be a hobby, a means to escape the real world or just a project to beautify a space. For Victoria Brennan of Durban North, it’s that and more – it’s a passion.
With Garden Day today (October 20), Brennan says it will be no different from any other day as she spends a lot of time in her garden anyway.
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“This year, my family will join in for a delicious lunch on the patio, surrounded by beautiful nature,” she said.
“I started gardening 44 years ago with cuttings and plants from my parents’ home. I love gardening because it feeds my love for nature, the wonder of our amazing world,” added Brennan.
There are many plants that fall under Brennan’s favourites but, for her, the Gloriosa Lily is first to come to mind.
The avid gardener chose indigenous as she wanted to attract birds, butterflies and other small wildlife.
“There are so many to mention. I love aloes, too. My garden is fully indigenous. I also grow vegetables and herbs – just enough for my husband and me. It’s really wonderful eating fresh, organic veggies straight from the garden,” said Brennan.
Her tips for beginners is to get a good book on indigenous gardening – get your hands dirty and enjoy the process.
“You can also start a butterfly garden to attract butterflies. You only need a few pots. You can also design a garden to attract wildlife. Don’t use pesticides,” she advised.
“Butterflies are host-specific, so plant Milkweed for the Monarch Butterfly, Wild Dog Rose for the Red Acrea Butterfly,” she added.
To make a natural pesticide, Brennan advises a chilli-and-garlic mix with water added. Then spray to deter pests.
Ten ways to celebrate Gardens Day:
1. Invite your neighbours for a garden picnic party.
2. Have tea under a tree.
3. Convert your garden into an open-air cinema – set up a projector and a screen against a blank wall or a white sheet.
4. Do lunch in the veggie garden.
5. Throw a tea party with your besties.
6. Serve cake at your closest community garden.
7. Braai on the lawn.
8. Share platters on the patio.
9. Party with your houseplants.
10. Host the Garden Day Olympics.
Turn your garden into a playful arena for a day of friendly competition and outdoor fun with the children.
Visit www.gardenday.co.za and click on the Toolkit tab for templates for posters, customisable invitations and guidelines to make your own flower crown.
Upload all your fun pictures on social media using #GardenDaySA or send via WhatsApp to 074 288 1487.
For exciting Garden Day events and promotions, follow @GardenDaySA on social media.
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