While the severe drought is affecting certain areas in the country, the plant life in parts of Johannesburg looks better than ever. The Kloofendal Nature Reserve’s plants survived thanks to being indigenous.
Friends of Kloofendal guide, Karin Spottiswoode, compiled a file to show workers at the reserve the difference between indigenous and invasive plants. According to Spottiswoode, some of the parts of the reserve initially looked bad, because of the drought, but after the heavy rainfall, the park is looking very good and green. She further explained that the indigenous plants found at the reserve are indigenous to the Highveld and have adapted to the harsh South African weather. “The plants can adapt to the drought and some can store water to survive in the drought,” said Spottiswoode.
She explained the difference between invasive plants and indigenous plants as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each. Invasive plants are problem plants as they take over the indigenous plants found in the park and in times of drought, plants cannot afford to share water with invasive plants. According to Spottiswoode, animals do not use these invasive plants and they should be removed. Spottiswoode compiled a file in the hopes of educating the caregivers of the park on how to remove these invasive plants. It can be done by pulling them out, poisoning them or digging them out.
A very popular indigenous plant at the reserve is the special protea, which is called a silver leaf protea. She further said that it would be beneficial to plant an indigenous garden as it attracts the right insects and does not use a lot of water. Spottiswoode further showed indigenous plants that could be used for medicinal reasons. The fever tea plant, is used to make a tea for sinus relief.
“You wouldn’t believe that it was dry a couple of weeks ago,” said a satisfied Spottiswoode.
Details: Friends of Kloofendal, 079 693 5608.
