Flower Power

South Africans across the country join the Garden Day movement in celebration of our unique gardens and green spaces. We speak to fi ve Garden Day ambassadors about how gardening boosts mental health and physical well-being, creates a connection to nature and generally puts a spring in one’s step

- HEIDI BERTISH

Calling all plant lovers

In the lead up to Garden Day on Sunday, 11 October, there will be an array of virtual events – the one that caught our attention was the flower crown-making workshops. On the day, the movement will host its first virtual Garden Day gathering with events such as yoga sessions and garden-inspired gourmet cooking. Look out for the Garden Day programme, available from the beginning of October. gardenday.co.za

Long live the gardener

‘My great grandmother was a masterful gardener her whole life and lived to the age of 113,’ says Constance Stuurman, floral artist and gardener at the renowned Babylonstoren farm in the Cape Winelands. ‘My grandmother lived to 101 and was also very active in her garden. I really believe their longevity was the result of the life they lived as gardeners.’ ‘I began gardening at the age of two, and I can also honestly say that in the 50 years that have passed since then, I have never had to see a doctor.’ She jokes that she aims to live to 114. As an ambassador for Garden Day, Constance takes every opportunity to spread the word about the health benefits of gardening. ‘Too many people are stuck in offices behind a computer and seldom go outdoors to enjoy and feel the sun. People need the sun just as plants do. Gardens are constantly evolving, which keeps one on one’s toes. Gardeners don’t see challenges as problems. They come up with solutions – along with the other benefits of gardening, it teaches us to be creative thinkers too.’ @babylonstoren

The art of gardening