Page 16 - LandscapeSAIssue118

PROJECT

Project execution
Kenton Garden Services uses a no-dig approach when installing
new landscapes, and compost and mulch are layered on top of the
soil. This ensures that the mature micro-organism population and
soil structure remains undisturbed, which significantly increases
nutrient absorption and water-holding capacity.

This approach has proved to be very successful, as there was
an existing seed bank of interesting local species, for example
Pavonia and Clausena, which germinated after completion of
the project. Other plants which sprouted were Dietes iridoides,
Drimiopsis maculata, Ornithogalum longibracteatum and
Veldheimia bracteata.

Project execution commenced with large tree pruning as they
Polygala virgata ‘Purple Broom’ Clivias and other bulbs were planted in were very overgrown and not maintained. Pruned trees were
which feeds bumble bees pots in the ground to protect them from chipped for mulch using an industrial chipper.
moles
Clearing of building rubble and cement which was in the soil took
place, and rocks were moved into position as per the landscape
plan. Composting, planting and mulching was then carried out
and a paved pathway and retaining wall installed (by another
contractor).

Maintenance and watering
The retirement village has three gardeners allocated to service the
public area under the supervision of one of the residents. They have
an estimated eight hectares of public gardens to attend to. The
forest is weeded once a month but no other major maintenance
takes place. It is self-sufficient and does not require additional
fertilising. The Kenton Garden Service lawn mowing team is used
Colourful succulent groundcovers act periodically to undertake maintenance and improvements.
A historic water purifier used by as a natural barrier to preserve soil
the early settlers of Port Alfred moisture in the dry climate of Port Alfred All garden waste generated is recycled and this compost/mulch is

Elands Nursery

congratulates

Kenton Garden Services on obtaining a
SALI Award of Excellence.

We are proud to be associated with

Gareth and his team!

Tel: 041 955 5671 • email: info@elands.co.za • www.elands.co.za
WhatsApp: 076 941 1399 • Elands River Road Rocklands Eastern Cape