malvernmugadzikwa
Andrew Mangwarara
AS climate change exacerbates the scarcity of water, it has become increasingly important to devise ways and means of combating this trend.
Succulents offer an excellent way of modernising your garden, especially considering the busy lifestyles most people lead today.
A garden belonging to the Konde family in Hillside, Harare, is a testament to the power of succulents.
The traditional approach to landscaping has taken a toll on the environment. The use of pesticides, chemicals, fertilisers and even gasoline-powered tools can harm the soil and poison beneficial insects.
Since we have only one planet, it cannot be overstated how crucial it is for gardeners to find ways of nurturing and protecting the environment.
We must work in harmony with nature. Our practices should prioritise conservation, biodiversity and regeneration.
These principles can be realised by preserving water through the selection of drought-tolerant plants and efficient irrigation, improving soil health through composting and eliminating harmful pesticides.
Succulents are an ideal choice for a sustainable garden.
Their fleshy leaves and stems store water for extended periods. This minimises the need for frequent watering. Moreover, their sculptural forms and intricate textures offer significant visual appeal without demanding excessive resources.
Include the stunning sedums, echeverias, aloes, agaves, sansevierias and crassulas in your garden.
Plan your garden wisely.
Arrange plants in groups based on their sun and water requirements, enabling efficient irrigation planning. Drip lines can be utilised for convenient watering.
Maximise space by incorporating vertical elements and tiered levels into small gardens.
Designate areas that remain wild and mulched, fostering a habitat for insects and beneficial soil organisms. Strategically position larger plants to create cooling shade for more delicate species.
Aloe plants can, for example, provide shade for haworthias.
When growing succulents, adopt water-wise techniques like incorporating gravel, sand or perlite into your garden to enhance drainage.
Additionally, utilise clay pots to facilitate evaporation and drying. While it is essential to water deeply and frequently, gradually reduce watering as the plants adapt to the environment.
Succulents are easily grown from cuttings. Simply pluck leaves for leaf propagation or divide overgrown plants to create new specimens.
Happy gardening as you explore the wonderful world of succulents.
If you would like to be featured in our green-up campaign, contact us on the number above. Feedback: [email protected] or [email protected]
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