Prince Albert Garden Club News

- Sue Goosen -

Have you ever seen a maze of sunflowers and mielies? Well, 22 members of the Prince Albert Garden Club will be able to tell you where to go to find one!

Neil and Jacquie Dixon bought a piece of land in Christina de Wit Street in 2007, with the intention of building a house. When the property next door became available (previously The Views) they purchased that too and now have two very different pieces of land. Neil is a horticulturalist, and although more familiar with plants available in Britain, he is transforming both the older, established but overgrown garden on one side, and also developing and planting a new garden on the adjacent ground.

Neil calls their garden “work in progress”, but has already revealed a peaceful leiwater dam, surrounded by mature trees, and containing fish, which attracts abundant wildlife and many birds. Old shrubs and vegetation have been removed and an enticing shady bower invites one to relax in the hammock slung beneath an enormous pear tree.

Follow the newly- laid brick paths past the vegetable beds and you will reach the new dam which has the beginnings of a wetland/bog area. Climb up the steps to the viewing platform and you will be able to enjoy the amazing views all around, and also appreciate the layout of the maze, which follows the Persian Carpet pattern.

A colourful walkway planted with shrubs, herbaceous perennials and pelargoniums was much admired. Future plans include beds of hibiscus and roses at the front of the house, and a fountain with cascading pools. Several members commented that they hoped we would make a return visit to Neil’s garden.
Our outing was slightly shortened when a storm that had been threatening finally resulted in a downpour, and we made a dash for Miller’s Restaurant, where Michael Upton, assisted by Tim Rowen, provided us with his renowned cream scones for tea.

Maureen McKinnon was the winner of a pelargonium in the lucky draw. Members were reminded of the Plant Sale to be held at the market on Saturday, December 12th. Contributions of rooted plants, exotic or indigenous, succulents, herbs or any garden-related items are needed. Phone Sue at 023 5411 558 for more information.

The end-of-year meeting will be held on Wednesday, Dec 2nd, at 21 Pastorie Street. Everyone is welcome to come along and enjoy a glass of wine or fruit juice with us. Please note a later starting time of 17h00. Bring along a folding chair and a wine glass, a pen and a small plate of nibbles. The cost will be R10 for members and R15 for non-members.