[LIESL’S GARDENING TIPS]

Although Liesl is still a novice when it comes to gardening in Prince Albert, she soon learned what works here! • If you’re a ‘newcomer’, take advantage of local knowledge. Without Shaun, the garden would not have been possible. • Plant predominantly indigenous plants, especially in the Karoo. Plants must be able to withstand this climate. • Healthy and fertile soil is the foundation of any successful garden. We incorporated plenty of compost, bonemeal and horse manure. • Familiarise yourself with the water situation in your area and garden accordingly. We don’t have the same water rights as most of the homes in Prince Albert, so we sunk a borehole. We only reached water at 148m and, unfortunately, it is sometimes brackish, but we can use it in the garden. Without it, we would not be able to garden. • Make your garden part of your home; this increases your entertainment spaces and living areas. • Your garden should reflect your personality. I like surprises in a garden and love to use interesting objects or plants as focal points in unexpected places. • The garden should suit your lifestyle. If you have little time for gardening, a low-maintenance garden is what you need.