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PROJECT
In terms of the peripheral natural
planting, specifically away from the
buildings and guest areas and within
the reserves, the non-invasive existing
vegetation was protected, and where
possible, transplanted or relocated. Where
the reinstatement of planting was required,
a palette of indigenous natural planting
was used. Special attention was given to
the reinstatement of planting along the
elephant movement corridors to ensure
that suitable species were introduced,
enabling the landscape to be robust
enough to survive the passage of animals
The cabana area around the swimming pool through the area.
The planting palette for areas adjacent
to the buildings and guest spaces
was informed by existing indigenous
vegetation. It makes use of more cultivated
planting, forming a gradient from the
natural peripheral planting to the building
edges.
Water strategies further influenced plant
material selection. Above all, water wise
planting was selected to minimise water
consumption and reduce reliance on the
irrigation system. Water saving techniques
were incorporated into the cultivated and
reinstated areas; these included mulching
to reduce evaporation and use of moisture
and rainwater sensors.
With particular reference to the planting
and stabilisation of the river bank, only
indigenous riparian plants were used.
Existing exotic and invasive plant material
was removed and replaced, with an
ongoing maintenance and clearing regime
established. Riparian areas typically require
ongoing maintenance to ensure that there
is no regrowth of invasive species. As such,
Pathway to the hotel reception and pool area this was taken into consideration when
establishing the vegetation in these areas.
New planting material was selected
to ensure slope/bank stabilisation where
possible, with aggressive binding root
systems. Species selected were those proven
to be effective at this in nearby riparian
systems. An additional consideration for
these river bank and wetland areas was the
ability of the plant material to encourage
bird nesting and breeding. Plant species
conducive to the habitation of fauna were
prioritised within the palette.
Landscape installation
Richard Wijnberg of Countryline worked
closely with James Hodgson of Emerald
Green in a joint venture, and says that
Hodgson’s support and involvement was
“exceptional” for the success of the entire
project.
Countryline’s work comprised three
Stand-alone villas were designed to nestle within the natural bush contracts: hard landscaping, the putt-putt
Landscape SA • Issue 129 2023 5
