Fabulous fuchsia feast
FOR Tony and Carlene Clark, a visit to a local fuchsia show over 20 years ago was all it took to sow the seeds for a long-term blooming business plan to grow and sell fascinating fuchsias.
“We were hooked and fuchsias became our passion,” says Tony, who with wife Carlene owns Hilton-based Tanglewood Nursery, now the largest supplier in KZN of top quality fuchsias.
“Fuchsia fans know how much fun it is to pot up a small plant and watch it grow in just a few weeks, into a stunning plant with flowers that resemble tiny ballerinas dancing down the sides of a hanging basket, or standard, or bush.”
One of the most widely cultivated plants in the world, fuchsias come in a kaleidoscope of colours and different forms to suit almost any outdoor situation.
“The flower colours range from deepest purple to delicate shades of blue, from flaming red to the palest of pinks.
“There are now over 7 000 fuchsia varieties, each a jewel in its own right,” Tony enthuses.
The fuchsia species, which originates from South America and New Zealand, has been hybridised into today’s beautiful cultivars.
“The only colour that is not in the fuchsia genes is yellow. I am sure that before long fuchsia fundis will manage to manipulate the genes to produce a yellow beauty for us all to enjoy.”
Fuchsias are prolific flowering plants which can be grown in the garden, in pots, hanging baskets or even as “lollipop” standards.
The big blowsy spring fuchsia basket in the right position with the correct care can produce an eye-catching spectacle throughout the season.
Tanglewood Nursery has been a part of the Tribune Garden and Leisure Show landscape for more than 19 years.
The nursery stocks up to 100 fuchsia hybrids and species with new varieties added each season.
All varieties are tried and tested for local conditions before being released for sale to the public.
Fuchsia enthusiasts flock to the stand to get advice, share their growing experiences and check out the latest blooms.
“Our season would never be the same without meeting up with our loyal Garden Show customers,” says Tony.
“We also look forward to