My Bushveld paradise

The latest edition of Platteland inspired me to share my garden with you.

I never thought I would find gardening so rewarding. In the city where we lived for more than 40 years it certainly was never first on my agenda. I simply didn’t have the time. Survival was the first priority and, as long as the lawn was mowed and kept tidy, everything was perfectly acceptable.

Now, however, in my new platteland life, I can’t help but create a bushveld garden out of nothing. I have fallen in love with succulents and appreciate every new species I come across. Given the scarcity of water here in the Bushveld, water-wise plants that aren’t too thirsty are the solution.

My garden also features rocks that I have picked up on our travels throughout our country. Rocks are like photographs that take you on flights of remembrance. And on top of that, they are patient and require no watering!

Among white pebbles little desert roses turn their perfect faces towards the sun, even though the guinea fowl cannot resist devouring their juicy leaves. Mother-in-law’s tongue stands tall and dignified like columns. Rocks hug the cacti. Spekboom plants patiently withstand the onslaught of the impala and bravely keep growing.

My garden forms part of my home and is my refuge. Everything resembles scenes from my soul. In the mornings I start my day with a mug of coffee and some rusks, and I settle down to take a breath for what may come. At dusk I can conclude my day in gratitude for so much beauty.

What is a bushveld garden without a wind pump? The Bushveld wind causes mine to sing its own song that finds its way to my heart.

And always the bush is a quiet presence that frames my garden of rocks and succulents and forms a cosy background. Even my feathered friends enjoy my bushveld garden. Early in the morning they are rollicking in a water-filled hollow rock that I positioned among the pebbles. This is where the bulbuls come to quench their thirst before taking a bath and preening their tufts.

My garden suits me as well as my lifestyle, and it is a privilege for which I am extremely grateful. Thank you for an excellent magazine!