Local garden enthusiasts were delighted by the opportunity to view 15 meticulously manicured home gardens, which were opened to visitors as part of the annual Helderberg Hospice Open Gardens Festival this past weekend (from Friday 25 to Sunday 27 October). These vibrant green oases provided nature lovers with the chance to stroll through tranquil and serene settings, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Visitors were able to admire the natural beauty and sense of calm each venue had to offer. Somerset View Guest House in Heldervue, Somerset West, welcomed over 100 guests to their garden on Friday. The garden features two large Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow flower bushes, which have been a special highlight since 1974. These bushes have been carefully nurtured at the request of the previous 91-year-old blind owner following the sale of the property. When guests comment on the size of the garden, owner Carl Pohl responds, “The garden extends beyond the property,” inviting them to enjoy the stunning balcony view of False Bay. Pictured (from left) are Carl and Emsie Pohl, and their daughter and son-in-law Elbie and Caleb Koenig. Photos: Jamey Gordon


Somerset West couple Chris and Zelna van Zyl warmly welcomed visitors to their Eden, which boasts over 25 000 plants and numerous cozy nooks to fully appreciate the lush greenery. Their avid green thumbs have not only resulted in a thriving garden, but also provided the perfect decor and bouquets for their daughter’s extravagant wedding.

Rene Teichmann’s garden in Parel Vallei flourishes in green splendour, showcasing a vibrant and fragrant array of roses. Among the varieties are the blushing Simplicity Icebergs, elegant Just Joeys, stately Harry Oppenheimers, beautiful Red ’n Fragrant, and stunning Snow Queens, all meticulously planted and nurtured by her daughter, Olga Tosi. Joining the mother-daughter duo in the garden is gardener Donald Kamanga, who tends to the garden three days a week.

Stop and smell the roses! Helderberg Hospice volunteer Collette Kuiper and volunteer manager Karen Gordon with the most beautiful blooming roses picked from the Teichmann garden.

Joseph Kandi proudly showcased his garden, which includes a wild pond. The Zimbabwean national eagerly shares insights into his green space, which is laid out similarly to the map of his home country. Asked what is special about the garden, he mentions the fragrant jasmine that delights visitors’ senses on entry and the Lourens River that runs parallel to the backyard.

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