Food Garden

Babylonstoren - Garden celebrating South African Heritage

Babylonstoren is a wine farm located at the foot of the Simonsberg mountains in the Franschhoek wine valley. It is well known for its quality wines and luxurious accommodation including a hotel, spa, restaurants as well as the incredible gardens.

Although I’ve written about this garden before (previous blog) there is so much to share about this place that I think I will probably create a new post eacht time I visit! In fact, I think this is a garden that one can visit weekly and still not fail to learn something new. There is so much to see and learn - this botanical wonderland is a place to inspire and delight.

Interactive water feature highlighting the reptiles endemic to the area - watch out for the Spitting Cobra!

 The garden was designed by French architect Patrice Taravella and based on the formal layout of the historic Company Gardens in Cape Town. Those gardens were originally built by Jan van Riebeek to provide food for the ships that stopped over on their way to India. Hence, there is a strong focus on fruit trees and edible planting and the gardens are continuously expanding to include cultivars that were thought to be lost. The farm not only produces wine but also fruit, olives and vegetables. The food that is grown on the farm is also used by the two restaurants on site who adapt their menus seasonally to accommodate what is available from the garden.

I listened to a webinar given by Ernst van Jaarsveld before my latest visit (see link to video below). Ernst van Jaarsveld is a renowned botanist who has authored several books, discovered several new species and contributed extensively to the botanical realm. He worked for SANBI (mostly at Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens) for 41 years and has now worked for Babylonstoren for the past 6 years. He complimented the owners Koos and Karen Bekker and explains how they want to create a destination that not only celebrates the history of the Cape but also a place that celebrates the creation of the vernacular specific to this region. Language and words are important (the name Babylonstoren references the story of the Tower of Babel), and one can find several references to words, poetry and language throughout the gardens.

Ernst outlines several of the latest projects they have undertaken over the past few years including: the new cycad garden, the welwitschia garden, the spice room and the wine museum. They are continuously adding to their gardens and there are plans to expand by purchasing neighbouring land.

Succulent House with all Pots hand made by the late artist Ronnie van der Walt

 Ernst explained the detail that went into designing and implementing the creation of the Welwitschia Garden. These plants are endemic to Namibia where there is almost no water and very high temperatures. Heat pipes were laid below a bed of imported red Kalahari sand and the plants were protected from rain. Petrified wood was imported as well as unique and sculptural rocks.

Welwitschia Garden

A special biome garden has been introduced that showcases the beauty and diversity of South Africa’s botanical treasures. There is also a medicinal garden honouring the plant knowledge used by the San. There are many layers to this garden - it not only celebrates history and heritage but encourages education and conservation of the beauty, botany and significance of the vernacular we know as South Africa.

Wine Museum

I was particularly impressed by the new wine museum which feels more like an art gallery than a museum. It details the origin, cultivation and culture of the history of wine and how this has changed over time. One wall has hundreds of different wine openers on display. A visual feast and authentic experience.

 Look out for specialist tours such as garden tours or birding excursions held on a regular basis. A small entry fee is payable for day visitors or look into the annual pass if you plan to visit regularly.

www.babylonstoren.com

If there is one garden you can visit in South Africa then this should be it. ~ G.S

Bosjes

Bosjes is a truly amazing farm with immense beauty and we spent a lovely morning exploring the gardens and being inspired by the diversity and beauty of the South African landscape.

Bosjes is a privately owned family farm situated in the Breedekloof Valley and surrounded by the picturesque Waaihoek and Slanghoek mountains. It produces olives, wine, grapes, peaches and proteas. The farm has several attractions including Bosjes kombuis, a contemporary restaurant with deli, tea garden and children’s play area as well as luxury accommodation and a Spa.

The chapel sits on the main axis of the gardens

The Chapel

The chapel is the focal point of the farm and is a dramatic yet serene icon. The white organic shape of the curving roof floats like a dove with its curving wings merging with the blue flowing hills in the far distance. There is an inscription in the pathway leading to the entrance of the chapel that reads “How precious, O God, is Your constant love! We find protection under the shadow of Your wings” from Psalm 36:7.

The Gardens

The layout and landscape was designed by award winning landscape architecture firms and truly creates an experience of feeling part of the landscape. Every view and pause area throughout the gardens has been carefully considered and the journey through the beautiful fynbos brings one close to nature, feeling immersed in the landscape. The site has been designed so that views of the surrounding mountains are always part of the experience. You are constantly aware of, and in connection with, the immediate and greater landscape of the valley.

A meandering walk up a small mound leads you to a look out point and seating area where you can appreciate the length of the site as well as the surrounding views. A water feature where you can walk through two banks of cascading water allows for an immersive and poetic experience of ‘walking through water’ or spiritual baptism.

Water Feature

The gardens consist of a predominantly locally indigenous and endemic plant palette although several plants have been included for their Biblical reference and these have sign boards providing  the verse in the Bible where they are mentioned.

Plants with a Biblical reference are sign posted with relevant scripture

There are several garden rooms to explore so make sure you allow enough time to fully enjoy this farm!

The Botha’s Halte Primary School

The Bosjes Trust was conceived by the owners as a tool for social investment. It was established with a vision to create employment and secure a future for the children of the valley. One of the projects, together with the Department of Education, includes the redevelopment of an adjoining school that one can see when entering at the main gate. (https://bosjes.co.za/care/)

We had a wonderful time exploring the gardens and appreciating the beauty of a well designed landscape and our South African culture, heritage and fauna.

 

See Bosjes Website for more information: https://bosjes.co.za/gardens/

Note that no outside food or pets are allowed onto the grounds.

Gardens at Brahman Hills, Midlands

A magical garden has been built in the Midlands, just off the N3 Highway, at the luxurious Brahman Hills Estate and Wedding Venue. The well known Windmills Road Stall and Restaurant is adjacent to the Estate and an entry point to the gardens.

Retaining walls beautifully clad with stone create several terraces and levels to explore. Pergolas and curved archways form tunnels to walk through and stop to pause and enjoy the space and views over the surrounding area. The formal layout makes use of cobble edging, walls and hedges to create the overall structure while the planting, water and pathways add contrasting curves to the garden design.

Stone Retaining Walls with remnants of Snow

We visited the gardens in August after it had snowed the day before and thousands of people traveled to Nottingham Road to take part in the special experience. The Gardens are still relatively new as they were constructed in 2020 during the COVID19 lockdown when the staff were unable to serve guests or do their usual work.

An excerpt from the website explains: “The chef was transformed from a culinary connoisseur to an irrigation specialist as he laid out pipes and set out the watering system. Meanwhile, instead of pouring drinks and waiting tables, the bar staff were in the trenches digging ditches and bringing structure to the flower beds. Even our general manager got in on the garden act and become chief cement specialist mixer and pourer, creating winding pathways that weave through the greenery and curve around into circular focal points built around central landscaped beds or water features. Everyone was hands-on and willing to take on roles outside their respective areas of expertise, and their toil has paid off in spades!” (https://www.brahmanhills.co.za/blog-post/come-and-play-in-our-brand-new-magical-garden-at-brahman-hills)

The team effort has been commemorated with a plaque including all the names of the people involved.

Plaque with the Name of Every Person Involved in Construction of the Gardens

The gardens aim to provide the perfect setting for wedding photographs, engagement shoots, romantic picnics and a unique experience during ones stay at the hotel.

The Chapel

Repetition of Timber Planter Boxes

A large part of the garden has been planted with edible plants, herbs, fruit trees and vegetables to provide homegrown organic produce to be used in the hotel kitchen.

These pictures are taken at the peak of winter (literally snowing) so I am sure in Summer the gardens will look even more spectacular!

For more information see their website Brahman Hills and their Blog Post detailing the garden installation

You may also like previous posts on Babylonstoren and The Herb Farm

10 Essential Plants for a Rewarding Vegetable Garden

A Vegetable Garden should be filled with plants that can be harvested for use in the kitchen and home. A wide range of foliage size, colours and textures add interest and variety to planting combinations. I especially love herbs and the beautiful landscapes you can create using them. Here are the top ten plants I recommend every Vegetable Garden should have:

  1. Perennial Basil ‘White’ (Ocimum basilicum)

Large, highly aromatic leaves with spikes of white flowers from early spring to late autumn. Leaves can be used in cooking wherever a basil taste is required. Its cold hardy nature will ensure the availability of basil right through winter. Shrub. Height: 80cm Width: 80cm.

Perennial Basil - Medium sized shrub with beautiful flowers

Perennial Basil - Medium sized shrub with beautiful flowers

2. Cleveland Sage (Salvia clevelandii)

A hardy, small woody shrub with velvety, textured oval green-grey leaves. Sage tolerates most climates however it does not like to be over watered. Requires really good drainage and a slightly alkaline soil. The foliage is used in pot pourii and in natural insecticides. Shrub. H:1.5m W:1m.

Cleveland Sage - large shrub with beautiful foliage

Cleveland Sage - large shrub with beautiful foliage

3. Mint (Mentha spicata spp.)

Most well known of the mints with tasty, highly aromatic mint flavored leaves. The mint is extensively used for salads, sauces and teas. Used medicinally. Useful natural insecticide. Perennial. H:40cm W:spread.

Mint - several varieties to choose from including Chocolate Mint, Ginger Mint and Liquorice Mint

Mint - several varieties to choose from including Chocolate Mint, Ginger Mint and Liquorice Mint

4. Dutch Lavender (Lavandula dentata)

An herbaceous shrub with deeply serrated, highly aromatic green leaves. Large blue flowers are borne on long stems from spring through to autumn. Has medicinal properties. Dried leaves and flowers can be used in pot pourii. Shrub. H:80cm W:60cm

Lavender - grey or green foliage varieties, beautiful aroma and foliage

Lavender - grey or green foliage varieties, beautiful aroma and foliage

5. Common Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

Mauve flowers in summer with small mid green fragrant leaves. Used in stews, soups, salads and sauces. Medicinally has antifungal and antibacterial properties. Ground cover. H:30cm W:30cm.

Lemon Thyme - Thymus x citriodorus

Lemon Thyme - Thymus x citriodorus

Thyme - ‘Silver Posie’ variety on left and common green thyme on right

Thyme - ‘Silver Posie’ variety on left and common green thyme on right

6. Fennel Bronze (Foeniculum vulgare ‘Rubrum’ purpureum)

Very striking, bronze, fine feathery leaves. Umbells of small yellow flowers in summer followed by aromatic edible seeds. Used in pork and fish dishes and a great addition to salads. Medicinal uses. Perennial. H:1m W:0.6m.

Bronze Fennel - adding beautiful and unusual foliage colour and texture

Bronze Fennel - adding beautiful and unusual foliage colour and texture

 7. Blue Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis ‘McConnel’s Blue”)

Small aromatic shrub with small spiky dark green leaves and blue flowers. Hardy, prefers chalky well drained soil. The leaves are used in Mediterranean cuisine. Companion plant with Sage. Medicinal. Shrub. H:80cm W:80cm.

Rosemary - not always easy to grow, but a brilliant shrub and culinary herb

Rosemary - not always easy to grow, but a brilliant shrub and culinary herb

8. Golden Upright Oregano (Oreganum spp.)

Striking golden foliage that add interest and colour to the herb garden. Ideal for container gardening or as a contrast plant. Strong Oregano flavor. Ground cover. H:30cm W:30cm

Golden Oregano - contrasting colour to add interest

Golden Oregano - contrasting colour to add interest

9. Spearmint (Mentha spicata aquatica)

Hardy, deep green, highly aromatic, serrated oval spearmint flavored leaves. Greatly prized for jellies and sauces. Used in confectionary, cosmetics, natural insecticides and medicines. Ground cover. HL25cm W:spread

Spearmint - small bushy shrub with a brilliant green colour

Spearmint - small bushy shrub with a brilliant green colour

10. Lemon Scented Geranium (Pelargonium citronella)

The deeply indented green leaves are pungently aromatic when crushed, releasing lemon scented plant oils that deter even the most determined mosquito. Shrub. H:60cm W:50cm.

Pelargonium citronella - good for repelling insects, especially mosquitoes!

Pelargonium citronella - good for repelling insects, especially mosquitoes!

Plant Descriptions taken from Doonholm Specialist Wholesale Nursery Website (https://doonholm.com/)

5 Things to Consider when Planning a Vegetable Garden

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Having an area where herbs, vegetables and fruits can be found at various times throughout the year can be incredibly rewarding. Any homemaker knows the joy of stepping outside and picking perfectly fresh herbs to compliment the evening meal. Likewise many of us have childhood memories of climbing fruit trees in back gardens and can recall the delight of discovering edible treasures.

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The landscapes we live in need to be a provider in order to benefit us and bring value to the community in which we live. I give my neighbour lemons and she gives me sweet potatoes in exchange. Sharing the joy of gardening and tending the earth is something that not only brings delight to an individual, it also has the ability to bring people together, provide food during times of shortages and educate the next generation.

It would be beneficial for every homeowner to introduce fruit trees, herbs and edible plants into their garden. While fruit trees can be planted anywhere, a vegetable garden is often a designated area where there are beds assigned to edible plants so that it can be easily maintained and cared for.

Now that you are planning a Vegetable Garden here are 5 things to consider:

1.       Choose the right Position

Most vegetables and herbs require full sun so choose the position of the vegetable garden carefully. If your garden is very shady it is unlikely that you will be able to have a successful vegetable garden so you may want to consider cutting back some trees or introducing free-standing planters on paved areas.

2.       Soil

A whole science on its own, soil needs to be healthy and consist of organic matter, earthworms etc to make sure it is well aerated so that plants will grow well in the medium it is planted in. If soil is too sandy or compacted or clayey it will need to be modified. The best way to do this is to create a compost heap with old leaves and garden matter that is regularly turned and will eventually create compost that can be used in your garden beds.

3.       Access

You need to be able to move in and around the plants in order to harvest them, watch for pests, prune and replace and also to get full enjoyment from them. Pathways can be made from brick, pavers, gravel or bark chip.

4.       Planting

There has been a lot of research into companion planting and also plants which can naturally repel pests such as Tulbaghia violacea (Wild Garlic), Nasturtiums, Tansy, Marigolds, Cotton Lavender and Geraniums. I also like to have several bushy herbs (Rosemary, Lavender, Sage) and perennial plants (Salvia, Helichrysum, Nemesia) that look good throughout the year so that when certain plants aren’t looking great these still add colour and structure to the garden.

5.       Focal Points

In landscape design (as in every artwork) there needs to be certain elements that bring a sense of order, balance and beauty to the landscape. This can be created using focal points and other elements that the eye is drawn towards so that the observer takes in their surroundings and as a whole this atmosphere influences their experience and ultimately their mood. In order to create this atmosphere one can use pots, obelisks, trellises, arches and other objects to create that beauty on the canvas.

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Vegetable gardens do not have to be forlorn and ugly. In fact if you have been to Babylonstoren in the Cape you will know that their vegetable garden is unbelievably beautiful and inspiring. Another amazing place to visit for inspiration is The Herb Farm in Midrand. So good luck and let the journey begin!

Gina Switala - Landscape Architect