Companion planting is to plant veggies that are “friends”, in that they take and give different nutrients from the soil and grow at different heights to maximise bed space.
During her visit to Epilepsy SA’s Free State/ North West Centre last week, Busi Wawa, a field worker for Food & Trees for Africa (FTFA), helped residents to plant cabbage in their veggie garden, taking up space above the ground. They planted beetroot bulbs under- ground and spring onions that act as an insect repellent. The spinach then could be planted next to them.
The enthusiastic gardeners were also taught about mulching, which is covering the beds with hay to conserve water. It prevents evaporation and smothers any weeds that may steal nutrients from the soil.
Gazette recently reported on the project that trained 15 residents in the concept of permaculture (permanent agriculture). Permaculture techniques simply mean gardening the smart way.
Together with the project manager, Keri Steyn, who helped secure the training and funding from FTFA and Shoprite, Busi trained the residents to use these gardening techniques in the existing vegetable garden and three veggie tunnels at the centre.
In turn, Epilepsy can share their seedlings and knowledge with the community of the greater Parys for a totally organic garden. The surplus produce will be sold to Shoprite and the community.
Food & Trees for Africa have been working all over the country since 1990. They teach smart gardening techniques at schools and community projects.
Shoprite supplied the gardening tools for the Epilepsy Centre and also gave the learners aprons and sun hats last week.
Food & Trees for Africa will be here for the next 18 months, to monitor the project and follow up with a hands-on approach. Busi will visit the centre again on 3 December. All gardening enthusiasts can learn from Busi at no charge. So, bring your hat and sunscreen. If you don’t have a veggie garden, be assured that these techniques will help you a lot in any garden.
