Online Reporter
Andrew Mangwarara
WITH the official opening of the new Trabablas Interchange, it is clear that exchanges are here to stay.
But they do not have to be dull masses of concrete with no green life.
This week, let us discuss how we can bring roadsides to life, following the excellent example set by road developers along Sam Nujoma Street Extension en route to the new Parliament building.
The way to the new Parliament building is not just a road; it is a prime example of how to integrate greenery into urban infrastructure.
Roadside gardening presents challenges, such as water scarcity, car fumes and heavy foot traffic.
Therefore, the plants selected must be hardy and tough.
They should be able to withstand these factors.
Several resilient plants require minimal care.
Liriope and ophiopogon are robust groundcovers.
Other tough options include succulents and cacti like sansevieria, aloes, mesembryanthemum, euphorbia, stapelia, crassula and kalanchoe.
When choosing trees for roadside gardening, look for attributes like a good canopy, minimal messiness and non-invasive roots that will not damage tarmac.
They must also be strong and resilient such that they are able to withstand windy weather and storms to prevent falling onto moving traffic.
Trees help prevent soil erosion, provide shade and add oxygen to the atmosphere.
Good choices include Kenyan croton (croton megalocarpon), leopard tree (caesalpinia ferrea) and Pride of de Kaap (bauhinia galpinii).
Suitable palm varieties include queen palm (arecastrum romanzoffianum), king palm (roystonea regia), Mexican fan palm (Washingtonia robusta) and Canary Island date palm (phoenix canariensis).
Consider using white stone as a groundcover to help cool the area, but make sure to place black sheeting underneath to suppress weeds.
If water is available, you can always use grass, as nothing truly replaces natural turf.
Alternatively, inject some colour with vibrant groundcovers like black-eyed Susan or marigolds.
The possibilities are endless. Finally, do not overlook drainage.
Roads or parking lots with paving will collect water.
Adjust the slope wisely, or dig drainage tunnels in areas where water collects to direct excess water away.
Let us get creative with roadside landscaping. The results will be well worth the effort!
If you would like to be featured in our green-up campaign, contact us on the number above. Feedback: [email protected] or [email protected]
Bongani Ndlovu