Want your garden to look good for guests? Here are 10 plants that’ll brighten beds and containers over the holidays
1 Vincas
Modern vinca hybrids are bred to perform at the height of summer when the rest of the garden is wilting. They’re not only colourful, they are the real deal when it comes to water-wise planting. Vincas have richly coloured blooms offset by shiny green foliage that stay looking good even in the heat. Plant them in a sunny position about 20cm apart. Jams ‘n Jellies’ (pictured) come in a range of unique hues, while Titan boasts extra-large flowers.
2 Impatiens
Both New Guinea Impatiens (Impatiens hawkeri, which have large flowers and colourful foliage, and Busy Lizzies (I. walleriana) with their profusion of blooms, are invaluable for brightening shaded areas and for containers and hanging baskets. They are very undemanding; just keep the soil moist and fertilise lightly but regularly. Look out for New Guinea Divine, Celebrette and double Fiesta Bonita (pictured) bedding impatiens. In sunnier areas, plant SunPatiens.
3 Portulaca
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Winter Warmer
Properly insulated homes are the next frontier for South Africa in a world of higher energy costs and a harsher climate
Carved in MARBLE
Use marble around your home to create an instantly luxurious feel
A Lesson From The Animal Kingdom
Not all of us are graceful ballet dancers or stylish fashion followers, but we can still stake a claim to elegance
Nature's Hidden Harvest
Clutching a bovine bolete deep inside a pine forest, Ryan Enslin discovers nature's bounty as he unearths her hidden gems and edible treasures
PAPER BRIQUETTES
Fuel your winter fire with these home-made briquettes made from recycled paper that you would otherwise throw away. Each brick burns for up to 1.5 hours
WINTER DOS AND DON'TS HOUSEPLANTS
Winter houseplant care is not complicated, but there are a few essential tips to follow to keep your plants alive until spring arrives
In The Garden
July Garden To-dos
ELEGANT AGAVES
Low-maintenance and always looking their best, you can't ask for much more from these showstoppers
MIRROR UPDATE
Turn any old or plain rectangular mirror into luxe home decor with this simple and beginner-friendly DIY
LOFT LUXE
This Cape Town loft remodel, inspired by Balinese living, shows how much of an impact minimalist design can make in small spaces
