Winter & Spring Flowering Annuals for Attracting Pollinators Tuesday, 19 May 2026 14:23 Written by Darlene Roelofsen
Pollinator Plants Image by OrsonCarte from PixabayWild bees and other pollinators are in decline worldwide, and one way gardeners can help is by planting flowers that provide forage. Annual flowers have always been a favourite for gardeners as they provide instant seasonal colour and are relatively easy to grow. The annuals listed below will not only create a colourful garden, but will also ensure a continuous source of high-energy nectar and pollen to sustain pollinators in winter and spring when food resources are scarce.
Why are Dwarf, Double and Triple Grafted Fruit Trees Expensive? Monday, 11 May 2026 12:43 Written by Darlene Roelofsen
Dwarf Citrus Image by Gustavo Fring from PexelsDwarf, double-worked, and triple-grafted fruit trees represent some of horticulture's greatest innovations. They allow gardeners to enjoy abundant harvests in spaces once thought impossible. While they cost more initially, their earlier cropping, easier maintenance, and space-saving qualities make them an excellent investment.
Lobelias bloom prolifically during the cooler months Tuesday, 05 May 2026 15:42 Written by Darlene Roelofsen
Trailing Lobelia Image by Tatters from flickrLobelias, with their spreading yet compact bushy habit are perfect for flower borders, and the trailing varieties are magnificent in pots and hanging basket. Learn which time of the year is best to plant lobelias in your region, and how to care for them to ensure a profusion of flowers.
The three most popular Primroses in South Africa Tuesday, 28 April 2026 16:29 Written by Darlene Roelofsen
Common Primrose Image by congerdesign from PixabayPrimroses are invaluable for adding vibrant colour to South African gardens and homes during winter and spring. Whether you choose Fairy Primrose, Common Primrose, or German Primrose, these charming plants will reward you with months of cheerful blooms.
The Benefits of Neem Oil for Your Garden Friday, 03 April 2026 11:04 Written by Darlene Roelofsen
Neem Oil Image by Alongkorn Tengsamut from PixabayNeem oil has become a trusted, natural solution for gardeners looking to protect their plants without relying on harsh chemicals. It has been used for centuries in organic gardening thanks to its powerful pest-control and plant-care properties.
Helping honeybees survive, one garden at a time Monday, 23 March 2026 15:38 Written by Darlene Roelofsen
Bee foraging. Image by Jürgen from PixabayGlobally many city and town planners are recognising the importance of planting mini greenbelts that support vital pollinators like bees. Sadly in South Africa this is not the case, making it vital for gardeners to plant pollinator plants. Having a bee-friendly garden is not only important for the survival of this important species it’s also easy to do.
Grape vines grow in gardens almost throughout SA Wednesday, 25 February 2026 15:05 Written by Darlene Roelofsen
Grapes Image by Hubert Ngo from PixabayGrapes can be grown easily at home, and with some patience, training and TLC, your family will be sitting under the welcoming shade of its verdant foliage, enjoying bunches of succulent grapes fresh from the vine for generations to come.
Black Chokeberries are now available in SA Tuesday, 10 February 2026 16:36 Written by Darlene Roelofsen
Aronia Berries Image by januszwietecha from PixabayAronia berries, commonly called “chokeberries” are a little known superfood that is quickly gaining recognition for its tremendous nutritional value, as well as for its ornamental value in the garden, and low maintenance. Research is showing that this berry deserves recognition as one of the world’s super fruits, and it is fast becoming a very attractive addition to other fruit crops.
Almonds are beautiful shade trees for gardens Wednesday, 04 February 2026 13:12 Written by Darlene Roelofsen
Spring Almond Blossoms Image by Carlos Ramón Bonilla from PixabayAlmonds are not typically giant trees, making them manageable for many home gardens. They form a nice rounded or spreading canopy, and their spring blossoms are sure to delight. As deciduous trees they provide light dappled shade in summer while allowing the winter sunshine in – perfect!
Festive Foliage and Flowers Wednesday, 26 November 2025 14:29 Written by Darlene Roelofsen
Red and White Poinsettia. Image by Michael Bubmann from PixabayReal trees and well-known ‘Christmas’ flowers make beautiful decorations, and if you purchase your favourite ones and decorate them, they make wonderful inexpensive gifts that will just keep on giving. Many of the classics like hydrangeas are planted into the garden after the festive season, and you family and friends will thank you next season when cutting them for the vase.
Bushman’s Poison is a worthy garden subject Tuesday, 11 November 2025 13:27 Written by Darlene Roelofsen
Acokanthera oppositifolia Picture courtesy Random Harvest NurseryAlthough poisonous Bushman’s Poison is safe to touch, and a worthy garden subject with attractive evergreen foliage and non-aggressive roots. The highly fragrant flowers can be smelled from a great distance away and the ornamental fruits attract birds.
Asparagus ferns are one of the finest foliage plants Thursday, 30 October 2025 16:10 Written by Darlene Roelofsen
Asparagus 'Meyerii' Picture courtesy Ball StraathofAsparagus ferns are grown primarily for their distinctive form and texture, and are one of the finest foliage plants. They are easy plants for beginner gardeners, and do not require any special care, thriving both indoors and outdoors in beds, pots, window boxes and hanging baskets.
