Use of indigenous plants in green-up drive
tHE Old Mutual head office garden in the Emerald Hill suburb of Harare, which we visited last week, is the envy of any passersby or visitor to the complex.
This is due to its intricate design. In addition, it is kept in an immaculate condition.
A well-groomed team of more than 30 gardeners maintains the place, which comprises a neat entrance, swimming pool, gym, tennis courts, rugby and soccer fields.
What stands out at the office complex is the selection of plants used, which are mostly indigenous.
Found in the garden are the ficus ingens (the red-leaved fig), the acacia abyssinica (Nyanga flat top) the celtis africana (white stinkwood) and the trichelia emetic.
The Natal mahogany is also among the indigenous trees found in the garden.
There are many benefits of using indigenous plants in greening up your space. They can withstand harsh climatic conditions better than non-native plants.
Even if we experience El Nino-induced drought, which is anticipated this year, indigenous trees will likely survive when compared to exotic plants.
The greatest advantage of local plants is their resilience to pests and diseases, which may decimate non-native plants. Some of the plants have even formed symbiotic relationships with these species.
With budgets getting tighter the world over, everyone is looking at how they can save money and there is no better way in greening up than using native plants. Having them ensures you use less water, cutting down on your bill.
Indigenous plants benefit the habitat, as other species (birds and wildlife) thrive through the fruits, nectar, nuts and seeds produced.
All kinds of creatures are, thus, attracted to the garden.
Invasive species have become a threat to natural ecosystems worldwide. We have the likes of lantana camara (red sage) and water hyacinth (eichhornia crassipes) in many districts of the country. Indigenous plants can solve this problem quickly.
Local plants do not require application of expensive pesticides and fertilisers. Native plants can draw nutrients from their environment more effectively. Some rely on the presence of beneficial bacteria to get nourished.
this solves the issue of pollution, which is quickly becoming a big challenge, as pesticides and fertilisers are contaminating dams, lakes and rivers.
The Old Mutual garden has seen preservation of an existing indigenous forest within the complex.
The garden exhibits good corporate social responsibility.