Nestled in the heart of Durbanville, lies a garden that is a testament to the love and dedication of its owners and the meticulous care provided by the horticultural team.
Avondale's journey began with the original owners Jack and Julie Grieves. Ardent gardeners, they were responsible for planting many of the mature trees that grace the landscape today. In 2000, the property changed hands, and the new owners embarked on a revitalisation project. For the next 22 years the garden underwent a transformation: from a smallholding with stables and grazing for horses, to a landscaped, cultivated garden. For many years it delighted visitors with its colourful beds in an English garden style.
The owners acquired neighbouring properties, expanding the garden and transforming it into a magnificent oasis. As time went on, drier conditions and changing interests in indigenous species worked its magic and today, the focus is wholly on indigenous species and the conservation of the disappearing natural habitat of our country's natural flora and fauna. It is now a haven for many bird species that were displaced by the habitat destruction caused by the many housing developments surrounding Durbanville.
A year ago, Tania Fouche arrived at Avondale and undertook the daunting task of being the next custodian of the garden. Tania believes that a garden, regardless of its size, should always be an integral part of one's home. She views gardening as a form of stress relief and a way to appreciate the intricate beauty of nature. With each labour of love, she witnesses the results of her efforts, further fuelling her desire to invest more time and care into the garden.
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