Pro Landscaper Africa June 2018

Concept to Delivery

DESIGN, BUILD, AND MAINTAIN

June 2018

Time to Shine

TIME SQUARE CASINO

KNIGHTSBRIDGE THE URBAN OASIS

Faces of the Future Campaign THE NEXT GREEN GENERATION

FutureScape

AFRICA TRADE SHOW SAVE THE DATE

AGENDA HOW ARE WE ABSORBING YOUTH INTO THE PROFESSION?

LEADER

DESIGN, BUILD, AND MAINTAIN

Welcome to the June Edition of Pro Landscaper Africa 2018. and associations can better absorb the youth into our professional circles and encourage the green industry’s progression.

Our June edition showcases some very interesting content indeed. From the SASPI (South African Sport and Play Institute) and TGMA (Turf Grass Managers Association) association news to the Interview with one of the founders of Habitat Landscape Architect’s, Stefan du Toit.

W

elcome to the June edition of Pro Landscaper Africa. It is youth month and certainly a very serendipitous moment for us as we launch our new campaign, Pro Landscaper’s Faces of the Future.

In an effort to cultivate the youth and applaud them for the wonderful work they have done for the industry, we are pioneering a new campaign titled Faces of the Future. From horticulture to landscape architecture, design, build, maintenance and supply to the industry, we want to see YOU enter. You can read more on this inside.

Our Agenda section also touches on how we as landscape firms/ practices/learning institutions

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We also visit the Site of Prime Trees Wholesale Nursery and showcase Symport’s rise to acclaim within the industry.

Our Landscape Architect’s journal features A dissertation by Roux Lube, second place winner of Corobrik’s Most Innovative Final Year Landscape Architectural Student Award. This dissertation is titled Bee-cause: Designing to receive.

Our portfolio section this month features African Environmental Design’s Knightsbridge Development in Bryanston, Johannesburg- as well as Interdesign Landscape Architect’s Time Square Casino in the Menlyn Maine Precinct. We roundup our South African portfolios with the Transnet Precinct by Benjamin Stiffler and (recently re-branded) Contours Landscapes,

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which sees the restoration of the 150-yearold Mechanical Engineers Offices in Salt River, Cape Town. Our trip abroad this month is to the newly designed and built plaza of Greenwich Square in London.

You will notice a particularly budding Nurture section this month with our influencer’s ideas on Plants for Hedging, a wonderful piece by Talborne Organic’s Jenny Slabber Titled Life is… Changing and a Designer Plants spread by Leon Kluge (designer of this years Gold medal winning RHS Chelsea Flower Show Garden, created on behalf of SANBI). We feature a beautiful country garden he has designed and catch up with Shadowland’s Natalie De Waal as she tells us why she #LovesHorticulture.

We are also launching our inaugural FutureScape Africa Trade Show on 1st November 2018 and would like each and every one of our readers to attend this day, chock full of seminars and industry influencers, it is set to become a date that is worth diarising!

Enjoy the read.

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P R O F E S S I O N A L S P O RT S S U R FA C E S

CONTENTS

faces OF THE

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7-9

News Shed & Association News Industry news from around South Africa

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Tips from Abroad

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17

26 PORTFOLIOS 32

Knightsbridge: The Urban Oasis by African Environmental Design

The Agenda What are we as an industry doing to absorb the ‘young blood’ of the landscaping trade into our firms/practices/ professional circles and how can we, as well as institutes of learning and associations better equip our youngsters for the best chance within our industry?

37

Time to Shine

by Interdesign Landscape Architects

42

150 Years Reinstated

by Benjamin Stiffler Environments & Installation

by Contours Landscapes

16

Introducing Pro Landscaper’s Faces of the Future Campaign and FutureScape Africa Trade Show

47

Greenwich Square

by Outerspace

19-20

Site Visit: Prime Trees Wholesale Nursery Pro Landscaper catches up with Bruce Stewart and Ryk Briers, the 2 founding members of Prime Trees Wholesale Nursery to hear about their expansion plans, practises and offerings to the industry

NURTURE

50-52

Plants for Hedging

22-23

Feature: The Synthetic Superheroes A look at Synport and their many products for the landscaping sector, their expertise and innovations in artificial turf products.

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Designer Plants: Leon Kluge creates a beautiful meadow garden

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Life is… Changing by Jenny Slabber

24-25

Landscape Architects Journal: Bee-cause, Designing to Receive A dissertation by Roux Lube, second place winner of Corobrik’s Most Innovative Final Year Landscape Architectural Student Award 2018.

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Why I #LoveHorticulture: Natalie de Waal

61

Little Interviews

27-30

30 Minutes with Stefan du Toit We spend some time with one of the founding members of Habitat Landscape Architects to find out more on his journey within the profession, ideals and design ethics, as well as him and his teams preferred sectors.

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Pro Landscaper Africa | May 2018

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When you use water Remember the source!

Irrigation ● Residential Pools ● Fluid Handling ● Commercial Pools

NEWS

NEWS Masterclass demonstrates a vision of an accessible, safe and thriving city! exclusive bubbles of gentrification or ghettos for the poor. The workshop prompted participants, made up of students and practicing architects, to imagine, script and build the city we dream of: a city of living walls and streets with hairdressers, spaza’s, barbers, carwashes, vegetable sellers, gwinja fryers, upholsters, sweet sellers, butchers, delis, lawyers, estate agents, churches, street food and sit-down restaurants.

As part of ArchitectureZA 2018, an urban cultural festival focused on architecture, Corobrik sponsored a masterclass, which was held on Saturday, May 5. Entitled “The 495 CITY”, 26’10 South Architects, with guest speakers Sameep Padora from India and Peter Barber from the UK, explored and expanded on the architects’ role in how cities develop through the provision of affordable housing.

“With this masterclass we wanted to demonstrate a vision of an emerging city that is accessible, safe and thriving, by recognising the street as a cultural public space to which our buildings form the backdrop,” explains Thorsten Deckler, co-founder of 26’10 south Architects, “Think of it as a budget Wakanda, built in a day,” he said, referencing the recent hit movie, Black Panther.

The premise of the masterclass centred around the everyday moments in which people connect, trade, exchange or simply enjoy seeing and being seen. These moments are ones which can strengthen a democratic society through connecting people from different life worlds through economic and social networks. “In South Africa, many vibrant neighbourhoods were destroyed through Apartheid’s Group Areas Act, in the process erasing from our collective imagination what a South African urbanity could have been. Today’s residential estates, office parks and malls make little to no provision for these moments, which are essential to the functioning of a democratic society,” explained the pre-event publicity.

The response was impressive; over 250 people applied against an anticipated 50, and in the end just over 70 participants could be accommodated. “The brief, in a nutshell, was for students to make a model of a vibrant city at the scale of 1:20. We gave each of the 12 groups a site and a building prototype and asked them to demonstrate the life of the city with architecture forming the backdrop. The tight parameters allowed them to work creatively and rapidly,” says Deckler. 26’10 south Architects commissioned film maker Anita Szentesi to document the workshop, interview participants, and film the models as an intricate visual manifesto for an architecture that forms an antidote to the franchised city.

Architects end up being complicit in extending and fleshing out this template, but they can play a pro-active role in re-imagining (and realizing) a fairer, more accessible city as an alternative to

Sameep Padora, principal of the award-winning design studio sP+a in Mumbai, noted that cities of today have certain challenges, but also certain facets which are extremely valuable. “To

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step back and show students how to use basic skills such as drawing and models and have the ability to look at the everyday and see something exceptional in that, if you can set students on that process, that’s a huge step.” He commented that the masterclass encouraged the students to come up with ideas, which although alien to the context, could at some point become relevant, or at the very least force them to question the existing notions.

Renowned London-based architect and urbanist, Peter Barber, one of the AZA18 keynote speakers along with Padora, said, “I’m really glad to have been involved in this workshop because the work that we did there is precisely my interest: the relationship between buildings and the street.”

He noted that that the format of the masterclass was refreshing, especially working with 1:20 models. “It’s also refreshing not to have students who have spent a week or two thinking about it and coming in with their sketches, but within minutes to be hacking away at bits of cardboard and making three-dimensional space, which is, after all, what architecture is about.”

The completed models have been transported to Victoria Yards, a uniquely integrated urban context in inner city Johannesburg, where they will be displayed for Africa Day on May 26. “It was a truly profound, spectacular and fun event enjoyed tremendously by students, architects and the many by-standers who came to see what we were doing,” says Deckler.

Deckler notes that the tight parameters within which students could have maximum creative freedom, along with working in three dimensions at a big scale within a team, were two of the reasons for the overwhelming success of the masterclass.

NEWS

Husqvarna Broadens Premium Garden Product Offering and Expands into the High-Pressure Washer Category. and water volume are used in combination.

Husqvarna’s new high-pressure washer range has been built to optimise water usage, using only the amount of water needed for the task at hand. This means users can keep patios and garden furniture clean with less water, as opposed to using a regular garden hose.

Long hose and quick connect make cleaning a breeze.

Husqvarna —enters the High-Pressure Washer segment with a new electric corded range catered to cleaning outdoor spaces of all sizes.

High-pressure washers are a great product to efficiently clean outdoor spaces like verandas and decks, as well as garden furniture and exterior walls. Husqvarna’s new range of high-pressure washers run on electricity, for a cleaner working environment with no direct emissions. Use up to 80% less water compared to typical garden hoses.

The cleaning performance of a high-pressure washer is determined by how water pressure

All Husqvarna high-pressure washers come equipped with a long hose for better reach — up to 15 metres — making it easier to clean around the garden. To ensure the longer hose is tangle-free, a swivel coupling has also been included so connections swivel around the product arm instead.

Designed around user needs, the pressure washers come with Quick Connect, which means users simply ‘snap’ different attachments or cleaning accessories in place. Husqvarna offers a full range of accessories, to help users clean areas or vehicles more effectively.

Strong and Durable The exterior of the high-pressure washers is made from water-resistant and UV-protected

plastic to better withstand different weather conditions when stored outdoors. A metal pump comes standard with all pressure washers in the range, for increased product lifetime.

Durable wheels on the pressure washer let users easily move their product around the working area. Being large in diameter also means it is easy to roll over uneven surfaces around the garden. All high-pressure washers in the range come with two types of nozzles: a flat jet nozzle that lets users switch between high or low pressure using the same nozzle, as well as a rotary nozzle that gets rid of persistent dirt effectively.

Husqvarna’s high-pressure washing solutions cater to a variety of garden sizes and uses with the most powerful being the 400-series.

The Husqvarna PW 450 has the highest cleaning performance in the range, with a maximum pressure of 150 bars and 640 litres per hour of water flow makes it perfect for cleaning paving, as well as large terraces and a variety of facades. All 400-series models have been enhanced with a flexible, steel-reinforced high-pressure hose for a better product lifetime and easy handling. www.husqvarna.co.za

It’s a Gold for South Africa at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2018

South Africa won gold at the prestigious Royal Horticultural Society Chelsea Flower Show in London in May. SA has won gold 36 times in the 43 years it has exhibited at the international flower show.

Designer and gardener Leon Kluge of the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden and his team presented a culturally oriented display featuring not only SA’s unique flora, but also the Cape Flats.

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Pro Landscaper Africa | May 2018

Leon Kluge, “It was an experience compared to none, representing South Africa at the world’s most prestigious flower show, the Chelsea Flower Show. Winning an award is a bonus. My team and I hope that we made South Africa proud and that we convinced many, many people here in Europe to visit our magnificent diverse country.” The theme of this year’s exhibit, and Kluge’s first design, is Iconic Landscapes and the exhibit takes the viewer on a journey around the sub-continent.

The South African National Biodiversity Institute said it was “great news” and “what better day to receive the award than on International Day for Biological Diversity”.

“Kirstenbosch has done South Africa proud,” said Magomola. “Thanks to our new designers, Leon Kluge and Chris Randlehoff and our volunteers who worked hard to make the exhibit a success. Mpendulo Gabayi of Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden and Ricardo Riddles of the Karoo Desert National Botanical Garden, thank you for your contribution. Well done, you stand on the shoulders of giants who came before you.”

Kluge took over the reins from multi-awardwinning designers Davidson and Raymond Hudson, who designed and created the Kirstenbosch South Africa Chelsea Flower Show exhibit for 24 years.

Chairperson Nana Magomola and CEO Dr Moshibudi Rampedi, both at the show, praised the team for the superb work in presenting S outh Africa’s unique biodiversity to the world.

www.prolandscaper.co.za

NEWS

ASSO CIA TION NEW S THE SOUTH AFRICAN SPORTS AND PLAY INDUSTRY (SASPI)

Fintrex, Seamless Flooring, Servest, TurfTech as well as UJSportslabs. Hence, SASPI represents the sports and play industry as a whole and is concerned with the construction of artificial/ natural pitches, athletics tracks, sports courts and play surfaces.

The main aim of SASPI is the following; •

To provide and maintain a central organization for the promotion of efficiency, progress, welfare, knowledge, education and general development among persons engaged or employed in the sport and play industry;

SASPI is a registered NPO (trade body) established in 2016 by 6 founding members.

Our mission at SASPI is to improve the standing of the sports surfaces industry in South Africa and to promote the participation of all roleplayers in the industry by encouraging training, higher standards, professionalism, ethical conduct and social interaction through regular meetings, conferences and workshops. The 6 founding members include Belgotex Floors,

•

To act as a networking platform and to support professional standards and to pursue social issues in the sport and play industry;

•

To encourage a high standard of quality and workmanship in the sports surfaces and play industry and to exercise control, supervision and guidance in respect of the conduct of the members;

THE TURF GRASS MANAGERS ASSOCIATION (TGMA)

This has proven to be so successful that it is now being expanded to include all other sports and facilities requiring turf grass management and maintenance throughout Southern Africa.

The Turfgrass Managers Association of Southern Africa's vision is to provide a professional support structure for the Turfgrass Industry in Southern Africa.

The TGMASA is committed to improve the standard of Turfgrass Managers in Southern Africa through education and professionalism .We keep our members informed of the latest technology and developments in the turf industry ,communicating with all sporting turf, agriculture bodies and associations in the green industry when it relates to environmental issues as well as education.

The Turfgrass Managers Association of Southern Africa (TGMASA) – Course superintendents saw a need to network and share their knowledge and experience on the maintenance and upkeep of golf courses.

www.prolandscaper.co.za

The TGMASA was officially established on the 30th August 2012. The Association provides information to its members, representing their interests and facilitates training at all levels.

The TGMASA will provide a forum for discussion and networking among course and sports field superintendents and turfgrass managers at a national level.

•

To formulate and recommend contract procedures and standards for the guidance and common use of all SASPI members;

To achieve this, we have developed compliance standards which members need to adhere to which assists in regulating members. SASPI has three categories of membership including Principal members, Selected Supplier members and Associate members. To become a member of SASPI, please visit the website for more information.

This year SASPI hosted its first Conference on the 25th April at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg. The day included International speakers covering a range of topics to educate and inform Municipalities, Architects, Consultants, Specifiers, Suppliers, Contractors, Installers, Legal Advisors and Investors in sport and play facilities across Africa. For more info regarding this conference and to register to attend for 2019 please visit the SASPI website www.saspi.co.za/

be part scientist, environmentalist, horticulturist, personnel manager, instructor, meteorologist and accountant. Course superintendents and grounds men are no longer merely keepers of greens and fields, Our National Partners are the foundations that growth of industry.

To become a national industry supporter visit www.tgmasa.co.za

TGMASA and its members strive to be recognized by the turf industry as one of the key contributors in elevating course- and sports field superintendents as professionals thereby raising the standard on all sport fields, parks and recreational grounds.

Turf grass management has now become a multiskilled discipline. A course superintendent may

Pro Landscaper Africa | May 2018

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F E AT U R E

A TRAILBLAZING SUCCESS The Landscape Apprenticeships Trailblazer group of employers has received government approval to develop new landscape apprenticeship schemes in England

“THE SCHEMES WILL BE OPEN TO ALL EMPLOYERS WHO ARE INTERESTED IN TAKING ON LANDSCAPE APPRENTICES IN ENGLAND”

T

he Trailblazer Group of 20 employers came together last year, with the support of the Landscape Institute, to develop proposals for employer-led landscape apprenticeships.

The proposals were also supported by the Institute of Place Management. The two approved schemes are the landscape assistant scheme, which is a Level 4 qualification, and the landscape professional scheme – a Level 7 qualification leading to Chartered Membership of the Landscape Institute.

The group will now begin designing the apprenticeship standards to define the competencies required for each apprenticeship. The group plans to consult on the draft standards in May this year, aiming to have the schemes ready for delivery in early 2019.

Once ready for delivery, the schemes will be open to all employers who are interested in taking on landscape apprentices in England. Larger employers paying the Apprenticeship Levy will be able to use their Levy contributions to fund training costs, while smaller employers will have access to government funding. Due to the fact that apprenticeships are a devolved policy area, the apprenticeships will intially only be available in England. The Landscape Institute is wishing to explore apprenticeship opportunities in other devolved nations in the future.

• TIPS FROM

ABROA

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“APPRENTICESHIPS ARE A FANTASTIC WAY TO COMBINE WORK EXPERIENCE WITH OFF-THE-JOB TRAINING AND GIVE EMPLOYERS THE OPPORTUNITY TO BRING NEW TALENT INTO THEIR BUSINESS” Poppy Smith, head of external affairs at the Landscape Institute, welcomed the government’s approval of the proposals.

“We have had great support in developing this initiative from our board of trustees, advisory council and members, all of whom agree that apprenticeships can help us to develop new skills and talent for the profession and increase the diversity of new entrants,” she said. “This is really exciting opportunity and we look forward to supporting the Trailblazer Group in their ongoing work to prepare these apprenticeships for delivery”.

Colin Pill of lead employer Tyler Grange LLP chairs the Trailblazer Group. “Apprenticeships are a fantastic way to combine work experience with off-the-job training, and give employers the opportunity to bring new talent into their business,” he said. “We now have a lot of work to do now in making sure the apprenticeship standards reflect the requirements of employers across the landscape profession. We look forward to the challenge and the opportunity ahead.” www.landscapeinstitute.org

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Pro Landscaper Africa | May 2018

www.prolandscaper.co.za

AGENDA Considering youth day on the 16th of June and with the launching of our Faces of the Future Campaign, the topic of youth within the green industry is quite pertinent. We ask our contributors…

What are we as an industry doing to absorb the ‘young blood’ of the landscaping trade into our firms/practices/professional circles and how can we, as well as institutes of learning and associations better equip our youngsters for the best chance within our industry?

BERNADETTE EKSTEEN Prof. Landscape Architecture Prev SACLAP Registrar & Current SAGIC Administrator

www.prolandscaper.co.za

To fully understand, appreciate and make the best of the opportunities that lie in each of the above themes, one needs to unpack them separately, which is not possible within the constraints of this discussion. A golden thread is to be found that brings this all together as no one person, business, institution or association can do this alone.

the ambit of the diverse green industry. It should be about; encouragement, taking a journey, breaking silos, taking calculated risks, creating modules of learning that can be obtained through various means and combined in such a manner so as to empower the individual with a sound skills base. This then forms a sturdy platform from which the individual can go forth.

The golden thread for me is a collaboration of all the role players in the green industry which needs to be fostered to bring about a secure and inclusive environment for our young people.

An environment where the individual has the opportunity to spread his/her wings, explore and find a “habitat” where he/she can flourish within

Through this process the true spirit of ubuntu arises – “a quality that includes the essential human virtues, compassion and humanity”.

Cultivating a pride, in terms of the contribution each individual makes to building a better South Africa as an active participant within the green industry.

Pro Landscaper Africa | May 2018

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AGENDA

2.

IDA BREED,

3.

FRANS VAN WYK

Chief Landscape Architect, National Department of Public Works. Vise-President of SACLAP, SACLAP Education Committee Chair, SACLAP National Academic Forum Chair.

Senior Lecturer, University of Pretoria, ILASA Immediate Past President Information overload and an excess of opinions are what possibly confuse young people the most today.

The careful selection of core information and principles to share with students has become a critical component of teaching. More than ever, hands on and practical experience are required to take young people out of the abstract digital reality into the real world of consequences.

In the light of climate change and loss of biodiversity that the planet experiences, how to ethically make the right decisions and influence others to do the same, is one of the most critical components of what young people in our industry need to learn.

The best chance in our industry has become synonymous with the best chance for our own lives and the lives of other species. In the last century, our industry has become earmarked by optimization and efficiency that often serve the interest of a small group of people and neglect long term benefits to others and the environment. This implies a need for change in the destructive patterns created by the market in search of profit.

Yet, there cannot be innovation without respect of traditions that embody lifetimes of experiences. Young people must have an opportunity to learn from past experience.

The challenge of all firms and professional circles are to allow for renewal through the fresh ideas of new members. As stated by Alvin Toffle, “the illiterate of the 21st century will be those who cannot learn, unlearn, and relearn.” May young members come with core values to regenerate the landscape we all work with and find the required openness toward positive change in our traditions.

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Pro Landscaper Africa | May 2018

In support of students qualifying from accredited programmes, opportunity is provided to acquire additional competencies as candidates. Students who struggle to find mentors are assisted by SACLAP, the various VA’s and in some instances also the Institutions who have dedicated staff tasked to monitor and facilitate the integration of students into the work place.

From Student to Professional – stay focused and maintain momentum.

We have to acknowledge that not all who complete their studies will pursue careers in the specific field, however too many qualified youngsters are in my view lost before registering professionally. In many instances the employed young get bogged down with an overload of insignificant tasks and immense workloads crushing their aspirations.

Students and first employments should know that these are exciting times for the landscape sector. It is now possible to pursue 8 professional categories of registration, aligning with NQF 6, 7, 8 and 9 qualifications in two professions.

Currently the UP, CPUT and UCT host programmes that feed landscape architectural categories, with the CPUT also feeding towards the landscape management categories and several other academic institutions committed to be assessed for registration purposes.

The Landscape Management Profession is a young profession growing steadily. Not only students should be interested, holders of an appropriate qualification (even nonaccredited), with the required work experience, should contact SACLAP regarding registration possibilities.

As part of an accreditation visit, the assessment panel would also have interviews with graduandy to meter if challenges with integration are prevalent.

Most Academic Departments have Programme Governance and Advisory Committees in place, providing opportunity for representation and input from the work place. Free student registration, a free workshop for candidates to prepare for registration and reduced assessment fees were measures introduced to ease the way towards professional registration.

Presentations are also done to students to ensure they remain informed on the road to registration.

Many firms are hesitant to employ youngsters straight from varsity expecting new appointments to hit the ground running. In my view students are better prepared than ever to live up to these expectations. I can testify of numerous cases where firms, after heavy protest, had to be convinced to employ the newly qualified, only to be pleasantly surprised at their abilities and work eager.

After all, is it not an obligation to plough back to sustain the feeding grounds that enabled your success? If you would like to better equip youngsters provide them an opportunity in your firm and keep them inspired and motivated to pursue professional registration.

"As stated by Alvin Toffle, “the illiterate of the 21st century will be those who cannot learn, unlearn, and relearn.” May young members come with core values to regenerate the landscape we all work with and find the required openness toward positive change in our traditions.

www.prolandscaper.co.za

AGENDA

4.

JOHAN VAN ROOYEN, Lecturer @ CPUT

The Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) landscape architecture programs aim to equip practiceorientated professionals with the required knowledge of design principles and procedures, the utilisation of ornamental plants and the proficiency to implement and manage landscape projects and installations.

The absorption and employability of our newly qualified graduates is extremely important to CPUT being an institutions of higher learning, even more so being a university of technology - making sure our courser are relevant and

IDA-MARIÉ STRYDOM on behalf of South African Green Industry Council (SAGIC)

5.

aligned with professional bodies, accreditation procedure and ultimately respond to industry.

The increasing demand for environmental quality has led to the rapid expansion of landscape planning as a career, concentrating on the development of aesthetically pleasing, functional and ecologically stable landscape spaces for the community. With that said CPUT is the only institution in South Africa that offer a SACLAP accredited diploma in landscape architecture.

Transformation of the built-environment profession is extremely important and we are playing a very active role in facilitating this process. Black student, coming through CPUT, are currently busy with their masters qualifications. We hope to have the first of many black female landscape architects in the next two year!

SAGIC (South African Green Industries Council), as the all-inclusive body representing the wider green industry, continues to engage with all roleplayers, including policymakers and regulators at the highest level to find ways of ensuring the sustainability of the green industry through collaboration.

The Council is actively involved in the enhancement of knowledge, skills and capabilities through various training and educational interventions. Finding solutions to green industry challenges is an ongoing priority.

One of the challenges is to ensure that we have enough skilled and qualified candidates as well as entrepreneurs from the younger generation to boost job opportunities in the industry.

“We realise that there are many advantages of having younger employers in the green industry,” says Ida-Marié Strydom, SAGIC Chairperson.

“These include the fact that millennials are digital natives and they have no difficulty in adapting

Our course develops practice-orientated professionals who have knowledge of design and plants, combined with the necessary technical ability to implement and management landscape projects. Our qualification is accredited by SACLAP and we work closely with other professional bodies like SALI and ILASA. We have given the process of transitioning from student to graduate to working professional a lot of though. We have designed our current courses with that in mind specifically. We offer our students a six month work-integrated-learning (WIL) experience as part of their qualification. We have placed WIL at the end of the qualification, making sure our students are prepared academically and industry ready. This makes integrating into the working environment much easier for our graduates.

to the rapid development in technology, as compared to workers from older generations.

The use of software, mobile technology and digital marketing tools are becoming essential in our industry,” Strydom adds.

“Millennials are innovators and bring new ideas to the work environment without being afraid to think out of the box. They value fulfilment in their careers over more traditional rewards, such as making lots of money. The challenge for us, therefore is to continue to make our industry as interesting and challenging as possible while offering innovative careers that bring fulfilment, as an attraction,” says Strydom.

SAGIC does not only provide formal training through its member organisations, but also by create continuous awareness and interest through various communication channels such as social media and the sharing of interesting and exciting news relating to the Green industry.

AGENDA

THEA WENTZEL

7. WARREN LANGE

Prof. Landscape Architect, Landeco Director & Autodesk Instructor

Prof. Landscape Architect

6.

Though some firms go the extra mile to accommodate and equip ‘fresh-out-of-varsity’ students. Unfortunately, due to the pressure of the economy it becomes extremely difficult to accommodate young inexperienced workers.

Lately many job opportunities request a minimum of 3 years' work experience.

In 2016, I had a few months relativepersonal contact with the 3rd year Landscape Architectural students at Tukkies. They were eager, enthusiastic students. I met them again early the following year, on different places in different settings, many disillusioned: only 3 or 4 out of the class of 16 were employed. I know of 1 company that appointed 2 students out of goodwill to help the industry. The situation didn’t improve much during the rest of the year.

What the students learn during the 5 years of study form part of a very small aspect (⅙th) of the SACLAP Core Competency List*, which place much of the responsibility on the employer to ensure in-job training for the inexperienced student, before they, the student, will be able to produce any documentation independent. At the moment it is more viable for any firm to appoint a Certified CAD drafter, with a 1 year intensive CAD training. The drafter will produce higher quality plans, faster, with a lower starting salary required.

As a responsible profession, we as current professionals must invest in not only the future of our industry, but also in the future of the youth. Investment ensures sustainability, which is a cornerstone of our approach to our biophysical environment.

Landscape architecture is still regarded as a new profession in South Africa, and in many instances, the value that Landscape Architects can add to projects is so often misunderstood and overlooked.

Our company actively seeks to create international relationships where we host between 2 and 7 students annually from both French and Dutch universities as part of our internship program. Students spend between 12 and 18 weeks working on a variety of projects with the aim of learning to contextualise their approach to holistic design solutions. Not only do we take pride in the educational participation student’s careers, but we make friends for life.

Furthermore, the education of new candidates is of concern as this lack of understanding of the profession as a whole, and its crucial role in the built environment leads young potential candidates to often look elsewhere for their chosen careers.

From past experiences, I feel that all tertiary institutions offering Landscape Architecture and associated built environment careers must include mandatory internship programs for all learners to better integrate into the field.

8.

LEE BURGER

Landscape Architect Will the youth still garden?

This month the question was asked: “What are we doing to attract the youth to landscape design?”

How to bridge the gap? I recently heard this saying: your expectation determines your opinion. I propose that the Employer, SACLAP and the Institutes of Learning synchronise their expectations to best equip our youngsters.

The answer is in my view; not nearly enough.

I am not alone, in a recent article by Marcia Eames, Senior Lecturer at Cornell University: “When it comes to working with the youth in garden settings, all across the nation, we often miss the boat”

*The SACLAP Core Competency Table is required to meet in order to register as a Professional Landscape Architect.

So what needs to be done? How can we interest the youth in a career outdoors? The answer is complex, and rightfully so. In my

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Pro Landscaper Africa | May 2018

Stimulation within the industry by active professionals to consciously participate in educational programs is key to the continued sustainability of Landscape Architecture. This involvement should include local and international associations as Landscape Architecture is a global skill, not just a local job.

view there is not nearly enough monetary investment in landscape design and installation.

Who would blame the youth for running after the high paying careers? In times like these, even the best of us are suffering under economic pressure. Add to this the disinterest of authorities in the art of landscape and we are planning to fail. So firstly, the industry need money desperately. This will only come when we cultivate the aesthetic of a city as crucial.

The identities of our cities need to link to landscape. Landscape needs to be associated with opportunities. Once we have successfully turned around the current notion of how our environments look and impact our daily lives, we will be able to change young minds. Are we, the landscape industry doing enough? With the resources and the hands available we are doing everything we possibly can, but unfortunately, beautifully landscaped cities are very low on the priority list of our decision makers.

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BENCHES | BOLLARDS | BINS | PLANTERS | PAVING AND ALL YOU NEED TO HARDSCAPE ANY ENVIRONMENT

Proud supplier of all paving at the new CTICC- developed with Stauch Voster Architects www.blueportwetcast.co.za | 082 907 2171 | sales@blueportwetcast.co.za

SHARE THE WONDER

“Ever since I was a little girl I have been interested in trees.

My life now is just trees and… um…and champagne” - Judi Dench

Tel: +27 871 1595 | Fax: +27 872 3136 SALES@JUSTTREES.CO.ZA | WWW.JUSTTREES.CO.ZA

1 NOVEMBER 2018 - SAVE THE DATE!

The LookOut

COMING SOON! Pro Landscaper Africa is proud to present a first ever for our green industry. On the 1st of November 2018 we will be launching FutureScape Africa Trade Event at the Cape Town V&A Waterfront's LookOut venue. With this beautiful venue and a full day of free seminars for industry members, we are certain that this event will include every member of our diverse profession. Our aim is to bring the pages of our magazine to life by connecting various associations, trade members, municipal heads, landscape architects, landscape contractors, grounds maintenance companies, installers and industry suppliers under one roof for an event you will book into your diaries annually!

To register your interest email media@paperplanepublications.co.za to receive FREE parking on the day and an electronic barcoded invite for FREE admittance. You will also receive updates on seminars and influential speakers, CPD allocations and all of the build up news prior to our event!

Book your stand now, spaces are limited and expected to be reserved quickly! www.prolandscaper.co.za | media@paperplanepublications.co.za

faces OF THE

We are looking for the most impressive young professionals within the industry!

Our Faces of the Future initiative being launched during youth month is quite serendipitous indeed!

This, we feel, is the perfect time to launch our new campaign, and, seeing as though we too are an office that fits the ‘youth’ criteria, we would like to champion a youth movement within the green industry.

Faces of the Future is designed to be a way of recognising and celebrating the work that young people across the outdoor design, build and maintenance sectors are putting into their budding careers. This includes horticulture as well as any green industry profession! Entering Faces of The Future is a great way to gain recognition for your own work or the work of someone you know.

LAUNCH

The rules are quite simple, you can nominate yourself or a colleague/apprentice if the nominee was aged 30 or under on the 1st of January 2018 and currently works within the horticulture, arboriculture, garden design or landscape sector.

All we ask is that you email media@paperplanepublications.co.za to receive the application form. Winners will be announced in an outlined section of the October issue of Pro Landscaper to be sent to all of our subscribers, posted online and publicly recognised at our FutureScape Africa Trade Show, held on the 1st of November 2018.

It really is a fantastic initiative and we are sure it will give way to some extraordinary entries.

Sound like something you are interested in?

It is a platform to establish yourself within the industry and to create a space for other professionals, both young and old to gain insight into expertise within your chosen fields.

email media@paperplanepublications.co.za for your application form or visit www.prolandscaper.co.za and navigate to our Faces of the Future Tab.

ING!

WELCOME TO RAMBRASS INTERNATIONAL

Established in 2000, Rambrass International custom designs, manufactures, installs and maintains a full variety of play equipment for parks, schools and public areas.

For 20 years we have worked closely with clients from planning and design right through to manufacturing and final installation of custom fabricated equipment. Our current operations are primarily located in South Africa, but we are structured and able to deliver a comprehensive range of services throughout Sub-Saharan Africa.

We also recently opened a branch in Cleveland, United States of America

082 417 7397 |

076 062 0405 | www.rambrass.co.za | info@rambrass.co.za

SITE VISIT

SITE VISIT:

Prime Trees Wholesale Nursery

In the heart of the Boland, nestled between the picturesque mountains of the Paarl region, sits the pristine Mistico, home to our June site visit, Prime Trees Wholesale Nursery.

A pleasant 30-minute drive from Cape Town’s CBD, Prime Trees offers an exquisite location.

The entrance to the property is a dramatic archway, lined with perfectly kept trees and set against the backdrop of undulating mountains in the distance and horses grazing amidst the scenery. This, we feel, certainly sets the tone for the type of business you are about to encounter.

Prime Trees was Founded in 2014 and supply’s high-quality trees and shrubs to traders such

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as landscape architects, property developers, schools, municipalities, as well as contractors.

It was founded by the passionate horticulturist, Bruce Stewart, who knows first-hand the importance of what it takes to grow quality trees. With nearly 25 years of experience, Bruce’s attention to detail, skills and passion for the industry has brought him, along with business partner, Ryk Briers (who too boasts 40 years within the farming sector) into a collaboration of skill and experience like no other.

Prime Trees has been situated on Mistico for 1 year with the area comprising 40 hectares of prime planting space. Currently 16 hectares are under trees, but this number is increasing at an astounding pace. During our visit to the farm, we witnessed a very happy and motivated workforce erecting new rows within blocks which are set to become home to popular species such as; Afrocarpus falatus (yellowwoods), Erythrina Caffra (coastal coral trees) and Vachellia xanthophloea (fever trees).

Bruce’s many years within the industry have helped him determine the best species to grow and the most popular and widely used varieties

to direct attention to. His tailored offerings certainly help him, and his team, concentrate their energy into growing incredibly uniform, well-kept and good quality trees with notably great spacing. Prime Trees have partnered with Haifa Multicote and have installed Netafim micro-irrigation meticulously to optimise the growing potential of each tree onsite.

Furthermore, Prime Trees is one of only a few who make use of the latest root technology called Rootmakers, designed to create fibrous, non-circling root systems to equip plants for transplanting success. The more the root system is forced to branch the more the nutrient absorptive surface is increased, which in turn increases growth and overall plant health.

Prime Trees continues to grow and expand their resume, offering the highest quality shade and ornamental trees and container stock including wholesale shrubs, perennials and fruit trees. They have over 100 000 mature trees in stock at any given time and their timely service, quality and continued supply has certainly afforded them the opportunity to expand as rapidly as they have done in this short period of time.

Pro Landscaper Africa | May 2018

19

SITE VISIT

What struck us about this company is the way they do business. There is a definite accountability for their work and as a trade member you can rest assured that when you arrive onsite, you will be greeted by one of the two charismatic directors of the farm. This is testament to the type of business they are running, where there is a personal relationship and culpability for every aspect of their work.

Your visit to Prime Trees Nursery might include driving through the site with Bruce and Ryk to see rows and rows of perfectly kept trees. A good portion of the trees we saw were tagged to be sent to sites around the Cape. Bruce knows quite a bit about what he grows, so test him, he will not disappoint! During your visit you may notice beauty in the simple things, like the plantings of succulents and herbs between blocks to enhance your time onsite. If you are lucky you may even get to meet staff members working to help Prime Trees reach its potential. We were lucky enough to bump into Amanda Duku, a qualified horticulturalist, with her team of very capable ladies, bagging Aloes whilst we were there.

Haifa Multicote: Transforming plugs into mature trees.

This is a well versed and welcoming company, inviting any trade member to visit them for a tour of the farm. We suggest you brave the beauty of the Boland and take them up on their offer.

Rootmakers technology

'We grow trees for horticulturists, by horticulturists’ - Bruce Stewart.

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Pro Landscaper Africa | May 2018

www.prolandscaper.co.za

Multicote™ (8) 15-3-12+Mg+Me

Controlled Release Fertilizers for Nurseries & Landscaping Multicote™ controlled release fertilizers provide a steady, continuous supply of essential nutrients at a precise, pre-determined rate. A single application ensures balanced nutrition over the entire growth season, saving on labour and costs. Multicote™ (8) 15-3-12 Mg + Me (K7996 Act 36 of 1947) is a well balanced fertilizer that meets the needs of most garden and indoor plants when grown in balanced growing mediums and soils.

Best time of application is Spring, but Multicote™ may be used all year round. Adjust the application rate according to the plant's sensitivity. Contact a qualified agronomist for advice.

General Application Guidelines: (available in 4, 8 and 12 month release longevities) Landscaping – Flowerbeds: Apply 30 to 60 g per m2. Be sure to spread evenly before turning it into the bed, or cover with a suitable mulch or compost.

IN

E

Nurseries – Annuals and sensitive plants: Make your own blend of the following: 25 kg Multicote™ (8) 15-3-12+Mg+Me plus 10 kg Multicote™ (2) 42-0-0. Mix well.

Apply the blend @ 5 grams per litre of growing medium, as above.

icot ult e

™

Nurseries – Potted Trees and perennial shrubs: Apply 3 to 8 g per litre of growing medium. Mix the required dosage into the growing medium prior to filling the pots, or dose each pot individually.

M

Landscaping – Trees: Apply 300 g (small tree <2 meters) up to 1kg per tree (large tree >6m). Divide the dosage per tree into four portions and apply into slots, 5 to 10 cm deep, radiating around the tree, within the wet zone.

SID

The advantages of using Multicote™ are: • Easy, precise application of nutrients for each plant.

• Most advanced fertilizer use efficiency • Constant growth throughout the growing season (no saw-tooth effect as a result of fertilizer spikes) • More resistance to disease and insect attack • Plants can withstand handling and transplant shock better.

Haifa Turbo-K™

compound fertilizer formulations Haifa Turbo-K™, a NPK compound granule generated from Multi-K™ Potassium Nitrate, is the ultimate solution for your general fertiliser requirements. With 2 uniquely formulated products, the nutrient ratio will satisfy most applications.

Haifa Turbo-K™ has readily available nutrients making it ideal for healthy lawns, beautiful flower beds and other landscaping requirements.

General recommendation: Flower beds: Haifa Turbo-K™ 14-6-14 +Me: Apply 10 g/m2, reapply monthly.

Lawns & Sports fields: Haifa Turbo-K™ 18-3-14 +Me: Apply 10 g/m2, reapply monthly

Haifa Turbo-K™ has a low environmental impact due to benefits such as • Efficient uptake due to synergy between nitrate and potassium • 100% plant nutrients, fully consumed by the plant • Free of sodium and chloride • Contains carefully balanced K, Mg and S to optimize plant uptake • Homogeneous composition in each granule, ensures uniform plant nutrition

Haifa South Africa PO Box 1409, Brackenfell, 7561, South Africa Tel: 021 982 0309 • Fax: 021 981 7637

Michael Koch | 083 2314516 | michael.koch@haifa-group.com Gerrit Burger | 082 800 8766 | gerrit.burger@haifa-group.com

Pioneering the Future www.haifa-group.com

F E AT U R E

The Synthetic Superheroes

S

ynsport is a family business which started in 1994 as a synthetic sport surfacing company in South Africa. Over the years they have become market leaders in artificial turf systems. The move to synthetic sports surfaces is a worldwide phenomenon due to the uniformity of the surface, maintenance costs, water savings and most importantly, it can be used 24/7 without the draw backs associated with natural turf. Since its inception in 1994, Synsport has solidified their place within the market and has come a long way, now supplying and installing surfaces that meet the specifications for sporting disciplines such as soccer, hockey, rugby, cricket, netball, golf, athletics, indoor sports and recreation.

Offering a turn-key operation sees Synsport doing their own civil works, base design, surface installation, fencing, netting, score boards and any other ancillary items. Gaining over

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Pro Landscaper Africa | May 2018

20 years of experience mastering the sporting scene, Synport decided to diversify its range to include ‘Synthetic Lawn’ and, most recently, their ‘Petscape’ product has been revealed as a free draining stone-based alternative to clients with animals seeking a pet friendly solution.

Since conquering the sporting realm, they turned their attention to designing their own range of landscape products under the Synthetic Lawn brand, powered by Synsport.

They started with the product SYNSCAPE, a carefully developed synthetic lawn product that has a realistic look and feel. Synthetic Lawn has also made a huge impact on playgrounds and gardens. Over 200 schools and crèches have already approached this company to transform their muddy play areas into beautiful, soft and clean spaces. There are a variety of products to help transform projects into happy, low

maintenance areas for clients to enjoy, they can even create synthetic putting greens to add character to your space.

All landscape products come with an eight-year guarantee, are UV protected, have a double mesh backing for extra stability and are made from recycled materials which is great for the environment. Synsport offers a “supply only” service for the DIY installer or one of their highly experienced installation teams can come and transform the space within your project for you. They are also the first company to offer a 100% Pet-Friendly product called Petscape.

Petscape yarn undergoes an antibiosis treatment - meaning it does not allow bacteria to live and breed on the yarn itself. This product also makes use of a woven backing with carboxylate coating which allows free draining through the turf where as traditional turf backing is coated with a

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F E AT U R E

latex spray limiting drainage and absorbing urine, which results in an an odour. This product has been very well received in the market and is a must have for Pet Owners who want a lush green lawn but who were previously concerned about the drainage capabilities of traditional synthetic lawn.

In the business world corporate boardrooms, entrance areas and staff relaxation areas all utilise synthetic turf. The retail industry has found multiple uses with synthetic turf for shop flooring and display areas and we can certainly lay claim to the advantages of artificial turf for green building ratings and overall office aesthetic and moral.

Synsport Head Office is based in Cape Town and they have offices in Knysna, servicing the Garden Route area up to Bloemfontein as

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well. Recently, due to high demand they have opened a third office in Johannesburg situated just outside Fourways.

Over the years we have evolved as a company and increased our services offered to include various sporting disciplines and surface types.

This was the thinking behind the re-branding.

The various colours in the new Synsport logo represent the different surfaces that we provide and the variety of colours that we can offer.

We are extremely excited about the future as this family business continues to grow and evolve. Watch this space!!

Info@synsport.co.za

No job is too big for the Synsport team. Give us a call if you have a project that you would like to undertake. We can make that dream a reality. Nothing makes us prouder than when we can transform unsightly neglected areas into beautiful multi-functional spaces. It is the ethos of our company. By adopting a â&#x20AC;&#x153;qualityfirstâ&#x20AC;? mentality and having open conversations with all stakeholders we have developed into a company and a brand that is always sought after when the conversation for a new artificial turf is started.

www.synsport.co.za Pro Landscaper Africa | May 2018

23

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS JOURNAL

Landscape Architect’s Journal: Bee-cause: designing to receive

A dissertation by Roux Lube, second place winner of Corobrik’s Most Innovative Final Year Landscape Architectural Student Award. His dissertation explores designing landforms and soil to encourage flowering species to bridge the boundary between the Cape Honey Bee foraging grounds and beepollinated farms.

The Brief The Landscape Architectural thesis brief at the university of Cape Town for 2017 was openended and undefined, which gives each student the opportunity to explore subjects which are true at heart. There are two key points the brief requested the thesis submission to fulfill, one being that the dissertation contributes to the global landscape architectural profession, which brings up questions as to which global paradigms are taking place at this moment in time? Be it environmentally or politically driven, and how does the landscape architecture as a design tool reflect or respond to the pressure global paradigms generate in the design field.

The second basic requirement was for the dissertation to respond to local “issues”.

A very broad term to be used in this context.

But the use of such a broad term opened doors for the student to explore what landscape architecture is as a profession and which aspects

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Pro Landscaper Africa | May 2018

in the built environment, environmental industry and even social scope landscape architecture can influence.

Thesis description The project titled “Bee-cause: designing to receive” explores designing land-form and soils to receive and support a variety of flowering species in strategically located corridors; bridging the boundary between the Cape Honey Bee’s foraging grounds and bee pollinated farmlands, as a result building valuable socio-economic, educational and environmental relationships whilst assisting our local Honey Bee crises.

The project proposes a set of corridors in the sub-urban/agricultural area of upper Elsieskraal River, Cape Town. It is proposed that the landform is designed and altered in a manner to effectively receive and nurture a very specific palette of high nectar producing flowering species, of which many are in fact, what some

may call “weeds”. The project thus places weight on soil sciences and design whilst creating a palette of plants which flower at a specific time and carry nutrients for our agricultural pollinators.

By doing so the project bridges the gap between when the bees are required for agricultural crop pollination and when the often mono-cultural crops don’t produce nectar, but bees still require nutrients for survival.

The system of seasonal flowering corridors splicing through the farms simultaneously act as a framework to physically connect people across the private farms which have become barriers between different urban fabrics. The multifunctionality thereof allows for strong connections between social, educational and ecological systems. This hopefully promotes public awareness, admiration and care. A spin-off effect being the by-products of the scheme, which ranges from flowers to honey and

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LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS JOURNAL

other bee products can be used to assist local small businesses, start market days on designed platforms and simply help the community to prosper.

Why this topic?

As a landscape architecture student, entering the industry in a time of ever increasing environmental complexities and degradation, I felt it was of value to draw inspiration from the current situation South Africa is experiencing; agricultural issues, drought and an everexpanding red data species list. Landscape architects have an interesting advantage, which is that we carry with us the knowledge to truly interweave environmental issues at hand with spatial qualities that form pleasant public space for all. Although many other traits including political aspects and contemporary landscape, architectural theory may drive our South African landscapes, I have a personal interest in assisting

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ecological issues which ultimately drive healthy living. I believe that times of developing schemes and spending national or local capital on strategies which exclusively protect degraded ecological systems should be a thing of the past. This is where the beauty of the wide scope of work landscape architecture entitles comes to play. It is our responsibility as landscape architects â&#x20AC;&#x153;to be, in my caseâ&#x20AC;? to weave ecological, economic and social threads through our projects. Ultimately assisting environmental issues, driving the economy and through promoting community engagement, uplifting social issues and creating further awareness about the ecological matters at hand. Not all projects however offer the opportunity to drive all three elements, which is why, when the occasion to assist ecological systems within an urban environment presents itself, it's an opportunity to be seized. This brings me to my thesis topic regarding our local Cape Honey Bee.

Pro Landscaper Africa | May 2018

25

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INTERVIEW

30 MINUTES

with Stefan du Toit Habitat Landscape Architectâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Stefan du Toit is a pioneer in designing habitats and people orientated spaces that are connected and integrated within the natural and cultural context.

Pro Landscaper catches up with Stefan to hear about his journey through the profession.

Boys on an expedition

Karoo sunset www.prolandscaper.co.za

Pro Landscaper Africa | May 2018

27

INTERVIEW

Onsite workshop with EPWP beneficiaries

Q: What are some of the key factors you

consider when hiring young professionals?

As a small firm, we have specific needs and requirements that allow us to work as a team.

The team dynamic is a very important factor for us. Both Siegwalt and I are actively involved with young professionals and students and believe in up-skilling them for the future.

We are very passionate about this, so, when we look at hiring young upcoming professionals we look at them as people, as individuals and as team players. We look at their personalities and their interests as individuals and their potential.

Q: You do quite a bit of government/

municipal work… what are the challenges that come with using unskilled local labour for these specialised public projects and what are some of the rewards of this?

Q: What did you want to be when you were

growing up, and how did you manage to make your way into the Landscape Architectural profession?

I wanted to be an Astronaut or a space explorer.

I loved playing with LEGO, designing everything to do with Space. People said that I had a vivid imagination.

I would say there are many contributing factors to my career choice but predominately these two: 1.

My exposure to the rich, natural and cultural landscapes and environments of Southern Africa from a very young age, travelling and exploring with my family.

2.

An interest in the Built Environment, especially with my grandfather being somewhat of a pioneer in the Engineering industry, playing a role in the formation of the Engineering Faculty at The University of Pretoria. What inspired me was the fact that he also had his own firm CAduToit Engineers, contributing not only to the academic side of the industry but also to the physical manifestation of the profession.

When I considered what I wanted to study, I investigated various courses including

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Pro Landscaper Africa | May 2018

Engineering, Town Planning and Architecture and it was during this exploratory process that I stumbled upon Landscape Architecture. I then enrolled and never looked back! Landscape Architecture is Art and Science for me – a field where I can explore and create with my imagination as well as apply real science in order to make it functional.

Q: Habitat Landscape Architects is a jointly

owned firm between yourself and Siegwalt Kusel… how did you join forces & where would you describe your preferred spaces to design?

From the age of 3, there were times where our personal paths crossed in some way or other, involving the arts and science and funnily enough we ended up studying together, where after each of us went our own way. Prior to 2010, each of us had our own small one-manfirms, but eventually both of us found the need to collaborate and fill the gaps with other Landscape professionals. So, in 2010, we decided to join our firms and Habitat Landscape Architects was born. We are currently a team of five people with a preference for the “rural” landscape and it seems that most of our projects tend to be in Gauteng, the Eastern Cape, the Northern Cape and the Western Cape (including all the Karoo). We have over the past 8 years, crisscrossed most of the provinces boundaries in the country.

This is a hot topic and one that I believe we as professionals will have to work with for a long time to come. Unskilled labour is exactly that – the workforce that execute the work is UNSKILLED and working with them to achieve an outcome that is satisfactory, requires patience, encouragement and a positive spirit.

Successful projects in the government or municipal sphere always require a fundamental understanding of the community, local resources and the skills that exist in the community, taking time to understand this is a crucial investment, and secures a positive outcome.

The team always has a positive outlook and optimism to make the most with what is at hand. The design is always pragmatic, creative and locally grounded. Ultimately the success of these projects can only be measured by the stewardship that the communities afford to these projects.

Priceless is the positive reaction and feedback received from the community and local champions.

Q: Who is your biggest professional influence?

I have a few, Peter Walker, Prof. Michael Murphy – Texas A&M, Andrea Cochran, Martha Schwartz, Roberto Burle Marx and Catherine Gustafson. Its a long list, but they are all inspirational!

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INTERVIEW

Murray Park project, Springs.

Q: From what do you draw your inspiration as a Landscape Architect?

I am passionate about understanding the numerous layers of the landscape and extracting from and interpreting these layers as the key informants to the design process.

I strive to design habitats and people orientated spaces that are connected and integrated with the natural and cultural context. I always draw my inspiration from the subtle interactions between the natural, cultural, historical and social environment that shapes, develops and sustains the community. It is these delicate interactions that inform the final aesthetic manifestation of the design.

I also adopt and support The New Landscape Declaration, as declared on June 10-11th, 2016, by the Landscape Architecture Foundation: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The urgent challenge before us is to redesign our communities in the context of their bioregional landscapes enabling them to adapt to climate change and mitigate its root causes.

As designers versed in both environmental and cultural systems, landscape architects are uniquely positioned to bring related professions together into new alliances to address complex social and ecological problems. Landscape architects bring different and often competing interests together so as to give artistic physical form and integrated function to the ideals of equity, sustainability, resiliency and democracy.â&#x20AC;? www.prolandscaper.co.za

Pro Landscaper Africa | May 2018

29

INTERVIEW

Q: Tell us a little about your volunteer

2.

Landscape Architecture experience for SANParks?

Growing up, I was fortunate enough to have had the opportunity to visit and experience the country’s National Parks together with my family. At least once a year we would visit the Kruger National Park and this awakened a deep love for the people, the fauna and flora of our National Parks in me. In short it is a labor of love.

Q: What are some of your most inspiring projects to date and why?

I have enjoyed most of our projects, so it is quite difficult for me to choose, but some projects that were very inspiring were: 1.

Egg Rock Karoo Garden. It was our first Government project and we had the opportunity to interact with the community. This project very much formed our approach to our company and the projects we find interesting.

3.

De Aar Hospital. Exciting project because of the challenging environment and climatic conditions. Other aspects were plant species selection, cultivating and growing of our own plant material. Drawing the natural and cultural landscape into the hospital.

Murray Park. There were two profound elements in the project that stood out for me and added depth to my approach in our profession. The site gave me new insights into heritage architecture and how to embrace it on a project scale. The second was the in-depth look at children’s play areas for various age-groups with the added dimension of “All-inclusive play”, that deals with abled and disabled children playing together, which really changed the way I will approach children’s play park design in future projects.

Currently, we are working on two exciting and inspiring projects, namely The SANBI National Botanical Garden, East London, and the Sol

Plaatjie University, Kimberley, where we are part of the professional design team of the long-term development.

Q: When you aren’t at the office / onsite… what are some of your hobbies?

I enjoy reading, exploring and capturing stories with my camera.

Photography has been a life long passion for me and ever since receiving my very first Kodak 110 film camera from my father, I have been making memories. I have recently completed a professional photography course through the New York Institute of Photography, taking the capturing of memories to the next level.

When there is time, I explore our country’s backroads with good reading material on our natural and cultural history as well as keep my camera at hand, looking for interesting subjects or stories to capture. I have a strong passion and love for the South African landscape, both natural and cultural. Especially the Karoo.

Karoo thunderstorms

Layered concept of the De Aar Hospital atrium

Team Habitat

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P R O J E C T

O N E

KNIGHTSBRIDGE THE URBAN OASIS

Knightsbridge Development is a redevelopment office park, based in Bryanston, Johannesburg and is a direct response for the need for a development of this nature in the area. The Knightsbridge Office and Park is located on Sloane Street, opposite the Didata Campus and building commenced in November 2015. With 7 buildings in total, the development will reach completion by August of 2018. This office complex and entire office park is designed to achieve a 4-Star Green Star SA rating.

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Location: Bryanston, Johannesburg Project Size: 32,000m2 Cost: R950M Timeline: July 2015 – Dec 2020

The Knightsbridge site was previously an office park that the client, Emira Property Fund, requested to be redeveloped. The Master Plan was developed around the idea of a central park where buildings are placed within a dense urban forest on the periphery. The brief was also to incorporate as much green as possible onto this high-density site to allow for an ethical environment and unique space for its tenants. Running tracks and outdoor relaxations spaces are also provided within the urban forest. Knightsbridge development aims to increase the variety of organisms present in the urban ecosystem without impairing human usage of the landscape.

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Using Biomorphic forms and patterns: Using nature as a blueprint for design and numerical arrangements that would be found in nature.

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Material connection with nature: Natural stone walls done by Pilatus, an excellent Zimbabwean Stone mason and used the boulders as sculptures that were found on the site when doing the excavations.

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Complexity and order: balancing formally designed open space areas with clipped lawns with completely wild natural spaces that provides a habitat for birds and wildlife.

Biophilic design principles were employed for this project. Biophilic in that the landscaped area explores the possibility of amalgamating nature with the built environment. This was achieved by:

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Integration of people in Nature: by providing running tracks and relaxation spaces in the outdoor environment within the urban forest, the office lifestyle is also enhanced with rooftop entertainment areas where extensive landscaping has been done.

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PORTFOLIO

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Greenwalls and Roofs were introduced where possible to reduce the heat island effect of such a densely developed area.

A large portion of this project was the salvaging and rehabilitation of trees from the old site.

There were many big trees that needed to be transplanted, first to a holding nursery and then back onto the property. The green building principle and initiative was influenced by African Environmental Design and headed onsite by Bossie van Rensburg of Tree Traders.

The rainwater will be harvested for irrigation and you can expect the office lifestyle at Knightsbridge development to be unlike any other, with a centrally located restaurant with boardroom facilities, roof gardens and entertainment spaces and various outdoor office spaces that will enhance the experience of the user.

Pro Landscaper chats to Randal Wahl, director of Regent Lighting Solutions, to hear more on what it took to effectively light this development.

Large scale tree transplanting formed the backbone of the new landscape development.

The project however was ineptly managed, and this became quite problematic towards the end as very little time was given to do the Landscaping.

"We work closely with Knightsbridge Properties as well as WSP Consulting, who are actually current tenants of one of the buildings within the office park.

Landscaping Contracting firm, Plant Elite, were contracted to install the Softscaping onsite.

The lighting solution required by the clients was to minimise the space occupied by the chosen fittings as well as to provide a holistic solution incorporating walkway and parking area lighting.

Tim Conradie explains that “as an extension of the biophilic philosophy, we focussed strongly on the indigenous and endemic plants that grow on the Highveld and in Johannesburg in particular. The emphasis is on encouraging local biodiversity. Knightsbridge is an urban park, so the outer perimeter is thickly planted to anchor the buildings within the environment and to create some separation from the surrounding offices. The forest is broken up into chapters with each building having a different feel. The entire forest is under planted with local shrubs, perennials and wild grasses.

The central gardens while still indigenous are more stylised with an emphasis on yearround interest and colours. Plant Elite used an extensive palette of indigenous plants which has already attracted an increase in birds, butterflies and insects which is very rewarding.

As the gardens mature so this will increase too. This is an exciting project to work on at every level. The client, Emira Property Fund, has encouraged us to create a landscape that is both sustainable and aesthetic.”

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We had recently completed a custom developed luminaire called the Thia, out of the necessity to create a vandle-proof fitting that is easily accessible for maintenance requirements and provided the precise light source required for pedestrian areas. For the Knightsbridge project, this Thia bollard was further developed to enable a modular system that enabled the bollard to be placed on the pavement with a light source at the top of the bollard that could be directed onto the parking area in one direction as well as a separate light source at the base that could be directed in the opposite direction. This proved to ensure that the client’s requirements were met in both space occupied by a fitting and the multiple uses created. This fitting was then further developed into an Urban Light Element to be placed in and around the landscape areas at a mounting height of between 2.5m and 4m. The style was carried through from the general exterior of each building across the parking areas to the landscape garden areas".

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PORTFOLIO

SUPPLIERS Landscaping Contractors Plant Elite - 0842401680 Outdoor Furniture WilsonStone - 011 615 6212 Lighting Regent Lighting Solutions 011 474 0171 Paving Bosun Brick Urban Pavers - 010 001 8398 Pilatus Stone Mason - 072827 9765 Decking Rhinowood - 084 580 6406 Planting Tree traders - 083 380 9876 Random Harvest Nursery 011 957 5354 Siyakula Nursery - 076 639 7949 Grow Wild Nursery - 011 465 8857 Wildflower Nursery - 082 801 1741 Grassland Nursery - 011 963 0600 TreeGiant - 011 957 5342/3 Sunkloof Nursery - 083 514 0709 Ecoflora Nursery - 082 415 2993 Belgro Horticulture - 011 957 2051 Florahaven Organics - 082 800 7592 Images Emira Property Fund

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PORTFOLIO

ABOUT AFRICAN E N V I RO N M E N TA L D E S I G N

African Environmental Design was established in 1997 by Sonja Swanepoel.

Their mandate is to respond with clarity and imagination to the unique circumstances of each project and their core strength lies in skilful design, tempered with their ability to deliver projects in budget. Solutions are site specific and effective utilization of space established by a functional brief is at the core of all our designs. They are committed to an ecological design ethic, rooted in place making and founded on a contemporary aesthetic that subscribes to the notion that landscapes are resilient living systems robust and constantly changing /growing. Bio-mimicry as icons of larger natural systems, juxtaposed in the urban landscape, re-present their idea of landscape and their place in nature.

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Size: 13 000 m2 Location: Menlyn Maine precinct Timeline: 1 year Cost: R6 million

P R O J E C T

T W O

TIME TO SHINE Interdesign Landscape Architects were appointed on behalf of Sun International to design a space reflecting the theme of horology- the art and science of measuring time. Time Square Casino is located in SAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first Green City, Menlyn Maine precinct.

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he Time Square site comprises an area of 13,000 square metres of well thought out design and beautifully executed hard and soft landscaping.

The brief by Sun International was to create a robust, cost effective and low maintenance outdoor space which would complement the architecture of the building and entice visitors to enter the casino, arena and hotel buildings. The outdoor space was required to fit into the design language for the Menlyn Maine precinct, which is marketed as the first green city in Southern Africa. The landscape also had to function as spill-out for large volumes of pedestrians, linked with the rest of the precinct, especially the Central Park development and park area across Aramist Road. Furthermore, it had to be visually appealing from birdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eye view from the adjacent casino and high-rise hotel buildings and allow for visibility to all outdoor screens and the Sunstar structure in the centre of the development.

Materials were sourced from local suppliers as far as possible. The planting palette comprises indigenous species, mainly to ensure a sustainable, resilient landscape, which is water wise, requires low maintenance and retains its aesthetic throughout the year. The design concept aims to enhance the architectural theme of horology, the art and science of measuring time. Paving patterns and shapes of planters and stairs therefore reflect the mechanisms of a clock, further enhanced by the planting palette, which aims to enhance the time theme. Species therefore were carefully selected to ensure an allyear round effect, with different effects throughout each season using colour and texture as a means of executing this theme.

This project saw many specialised challenges and called for skill of working alongside a fall of approximately 3,000 metres across the central piazza area, polystyrene fill due to the level difference on the site and the fact that much of the site was built on a basement area. Limited timeframes were allowed for the installation of the soft landscaping, which was installed by Bidvest TopTurf.

Another challenge was to overcome the level difference of approximately 3,8 metres in a cost-effective manner across the main piazza, with the minimum weight, as most of the piazza and landscaped areas were positioned above the basement. The objective was to ensure a gradual change without visitors to the development being aware of the level difference over such a short distance. Planters, stairs and ramps were therefore strategically planned, and planters have varying depths of between 300mm and 1500mm.

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PORTFOLIO

SUPPLIERS Lead Contractors: Bidvest TopTurf 087 286 5625 Plants: Tshala Plant Brokers 082 415 0165 Pots: Igneous Concrete 011 827 7425 Planting Medium: Culterra 082 563 1380 Geo Textiles: Fibertex 083 268 6666 Paving/Edging: Bosun 011 310 1176 Lighting: Regent Lighting Solutions 011 474 0171 Perimeter Fence Fencing contractors Fencesteel 012 543 1294 Betafence Betaview 021 868 7300 Images supplied by:

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The design of the paving was done in such a manner as to continue the theme of time into the landscape and form a continuation of the prominent lines as seen on the building faรงades which can be understood on ground level but also from birds-eye view due to the high-rise nature of the buildings which surround the landscape. In the eastern piazza the complex paving patterns draw directly from the idea of cogs in a clock mechanism and merge with the shapes of the planters, thus creating the continuation through various levels of the design. In the western piazza the paving lines materialise from the focal tree and radiate

outdoors drawing on the concept of a sundial with the tree acting as the gnomon.

The lighting design was done in such a manner as not to detract from the feature lights found on the faรงade of the building. The lights subtly illuminate the walkways and guide the user towards the building entrances-alerting the user of various level changes within the landscape.

Various uplighters were used beneath the trees to create focus elements within the landscape as one moves through the space and lighting bollards were used to clearly demarcate the pedestrian realm from the vehicular realm.

Pro Landscaper Africa | May 2018

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PORTFOLIO

The design concept aims to enhance the architectural theme of horology, the art and science of measuring time.

ABOUT INTERDESIGN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS

Interdesign Landscape Architects was established in 1998 and is a 100% women-owned company with majority black ownership and certified as a B-BBEE Level 2 Contributor.

The directors are Shalini Chetty and Karen Botes. The objective of the diverse and experienced ILA team is to create functional, responsible, sustainable and aesthetically pleasing outdoor spaces to meet the clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s budgetary and other requirements. ILA is renowned for their dedication to the quality of their work and creative approach, through design with nature.

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P R O J E C T

T H R E E

150 YEARS REINSTATED Transnetâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 150-year-old Cape Town office building was to be brought back to its former glory, with an update that would both honour the past and uplift the present. With Design by Benjamin Stiffler and implementation by Contours Landscapes, the Mechanical Engineers Building, located in Salt River, Cape Town saw a glowing transformation.

PORTFOLIO Location: Saltriver, Cape Town Size: Phase 1 – 1,400m2, Phase 2 - 1,500m2 Timeline: 1 year

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he Mechanical Engineer’s Building was built in 1927 to accommodate the various management and administrative support functions of the predecessors of Transnet Engineering, established in 1862. This building, also fondly referred to as the “White Building”, went into disuse in years gone by. Up to July 2012 parts of the building were leased to private sector tenants.

The intention of this project was not just to retain and restore this heritage building and the surrounding landscape, but to reintegrate the building with the operations of Transnet Engineering, to support the growth of the entity and to restore the dignity of a building which has served its users well over the past 90 years in an aesthetically appealing horticultural setting.

Over the years the grounds were leased to several tenants who did not invest sufficiently in the property to ensure that it was saved from degeneration. Over time the grounds on which the building was placed had become overrun with noxious weeds, in particular Acacia saligna (Port Jackson Willow) and Acacia cyclops (Rooikrantz) which grew dense and tall in places.

Pennisetum setaceum (Fountain grass – also classified an alien invader) took root wherever Rooikrants and Port Jackson Willow were not able to take root first. In the years prior to the renovation, transient vagrants soon began to overnight on the site. This led on to other unsavoury elements squatting on the grounds on a semi-permanent basis. This contributed to a considerable litter build-up and general site degeneration.

Because of the site not being actively guarded and secured at all times, it was being used

as a dumping ground for rubble and waste, exacerbating the unsightliness. The site really had very little horticultural aesthetic appeal or value.

Prior to the aesthetic improvement of the landscape, the many decades worth of rubble, litter and noxious weed accumulation had to be removed and dumped to create a clean site on which to work. Included in this rubble build-up was the presence of toxic waste such as disposed oil and asbestos roof sheeting which required special handling and disposal.

There was also no indigenous flora on the site worth retaining.

Cape Contours Landscapes, (who have since rebranded to Contours Landscapes) was appointed by Aveng Grinaker/LTA, the principle contractor, as a domestically appointed landscape subcontractor to attend to all landscape installation requirements.

The landscape proposal was drafted by Benjamin Stiffler Environments as part of the professional team headed by Gallagher Lourens Architects GLA who were commissioned by the employer, Transnet.

Ben Stiffler explains that "the landscape concept drew on various factors such as the site constraints (high soil salinity; extreme South East and North West prevailing winds); period architecture and industrial elements and materials which one would be excused for associating with the rail transport industry (the incorporation of industrial elements like core ten steels, stone as a mulch in planting areas; gabion wall structures and stone cladding all incorporating shutter and ballast stone).

PORTFOLIO

SUPPLIERS Main Contractor Aveng Grinekar/LTA - 021 703 1040 Gabion and Stone Cladding Contractor Contours Gabions - 021 788 1202 Irrigation contractor Turfmanzi Irrigation - 010 021 5097 Stone Furniture Blueport Wetcast - 021 902 0239 Water feature Water in Motion - 08 3227 5950 Tree suppliers Just Trees - 021 871 1595 Trees SA - 021 842 0003 Organic soil additives Reliance compost - 0861 888 784 Architects: Gallagher Lourens Architects (GLA) Paving C.E.L. Paving Products - 021 905 5998 Lighting Lightnet - 021 905 9460 Images: Benjamin Stiffler

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Incidentally, ballast stone is often used as a supporting foundation under railway track and hence the direct link.” Contours Gabions was contracted to incorporate certain industrial design element such as ballast stone filled gabions -to shore up certain portions of the landscape and stone clad facia’s, again using ballast stone- to create focal and points of interest.

Interestingly, historical records and artefacts unearthed during construction revealed the site to have housed draft horses once used to transport materials and passengers.

According to the Contours Landscapes installation team, it was not your “commongarden-variety” landscape installation project!

Some of the challenges that needed to be overcome were expressed as follows, “The project was installed in a phased approach.

This was required to ensure that the landscape installation followed close on the heels of the civils; hard elements and architectural trades but which resulted in an unusually long and protracted landscape installation period

which was not anticipated at tender stage (as opposed to being called to site to install the landscape elements after all the other trades have completed their works and left site); Limited and constrained access necessitated the downsizing and the delivery of bulk material (compost; topsoil, mulch cladding stone and ballast stone) from 10m3 truck loads to 6m3 truck loads and towards the end of the project , from 6m3 truck loads downsized to one ton light delivery vehicle (LDV) loads, prior to accessing the site; Incorporated into the landscape design was a potted roof garden using plant pots too heavy to place using manual labour. At ground level 1,000L and 400L trees were specified. The placement of both the pots and the trees necessitated the use of a 30 ton mobile crane.

Despite the many challenges that were experienced, the project was completed on time and within budget and according to the client the quality of the gabion and landscape installation far exceeded expectations. What has been designed ad installed is truly a new start to an old and well known site.

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PORTFOLIO

"The intention of this project was not just to restore this heritage site, but to reintegrate the building with the operations of Transnet Engineering, to support the growth of the entity and to restore the dignity of the building."

ABOUT BENJAMIN STIFFLER

Benjamin Stiffler settled in Cape Town over a decade ago, following an extended period of travel and work experience spanning 3 continents. His 13 years in the landscaping industry have seen him managing medium and large-scale projects, both locally and abroad, for the likes of multi-disciplinary landscape architecture firms like Planning Partners and environmental rehabilitation initiatives such as a Vula. In the seven years since founding his own landscape architecture consultancy, Benjamin has developed a breadth of expertise around sustainable environmental solutions for both commercial and residential projects. Get in touch: bcsproject.co.za ABOUT CONTOURS LANDSCAPING

Contours Landscapes provides a comprehensive landscape service to a wide range of clients. Its focus is on consultation, design, and implementation of landscapes, construction of precision gabion retaining walls and installation of living green walls. Contours Landscapes is keen on collaborating on projects and is based at the foot of the Muizenburg mountain range in Cape Town.

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PORTFOLIO

P R O J E C T

F O U R

GREENWICH SQUARE GREENWICH

Outerspace

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he Greenwich Square development is located along the Woolwich Road, between Greenwich and Woolwich. Outerspace was briefed to create a space that drew on the area’s rich history, provided a social area for locals that would also benefit local businesses, and included a public art sculpture at its centre, to create a sense of intrigue and excitement.

The development is based upon the creation of human-scale streets and spaces, with a town square at its heart. This place was to become a civic space for new and existing local communities with the Greenwich Centre, a community facility containing a swimming pool and doctors’ surgery. It would also be enlivened with bars and restaurants.

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Design The space is intended to be pivotal to the local area, and was thus designed to be flexible so that it could host a range of activities. Its layout was designed carefully to accommodate pedestrian desire lines through and across it, as well as the path of the sun throughout the day. Outdoor café seating and play spaces are situated around the edge, with space for potential events in the middle.

It also contains a series of raised planting beds to soften the space and provide a human scale element, which prevents the scale of the surrounding buildings from potentially being overwhelming.

Taking on board the various design principles, the layout and character of the space was very much driven by the ‘sense of place’ – namely, its historical context and indigenous landscape. The shape and arrangement of the planters were inspired by Britain’s

Client Hadley MACE Awards What Housing Mixed Use Winner 2015 Consultants Make Architects; Chris Brammall Build time Nine months (phase one) Project value R34 million

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historic voyages of discovery and enlightenment, which Greenwich was very much at the heart of; the scheme contains a mix of plants that resemble the natural woodland, before humans made their mark.

As well as designing the landscape for the Square, Outerspace was also given the chance to design a public art sculpture. While the feature will not necessarily be seen from outside the Square – from Woolwich Road, for example – it will offer an element of surprise and excitement once people reach the central part of the Square.

The sculpture celebrates the dichotomy of the area’s history: Greenwich and Woolwich are both places with immense maritime history, but they also had two extremely different impacts on British and global history. On the one hand, this area is the source of some of Britain’s bloodiest battles, such as Trafalgar, with Lord Nelson having been trained at the famous Royal Naval College in Greenwich. On the other hand, it was a starting point for multiple journeys of enlightenment and discovery. HMS Beagle, for example – the ship on which that Charles Darwin sailed to Patagonia – was first launched from Woolwich Dockyard. The public art sculpture aims to portray these two very different faces, looking down over the space and telling the community their story.

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PORTFOLIO

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8 1 Aerial

image of the masterplan

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2 Publicity event unveiling the sculpture

OuterSpace

3 From concept to fabrication

Outerspace is a landscape architecture

4 Darwin and Nelson: contrasting outlooks

and urban design practice creating

5 Residential entrance lobby

schemes that are contemporary in style

6 Landscape forms respond to architecture

and technology, respond to their physical

7 Bespoke furniture encourages social interaction

context, and engage the people who will

8 Robust communal gardens for affordable housing

use the space. www.outerspaceuk.com

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We focus on plants for hedging in this edition.

CARL PRETORIUS - JUST TREES There really are a number of trees that one could use to create a hedge. More commonly used species would include the Buddleja saligna, Tarchonanthus camphoratus, Viburnum sinensis or even Olea europaea subsp. africana.

There are other species that one could also consider. The Podocarpus syn.

Afrocarpus falcatus makes a very dense and tall hedge. Keith Kirsten used this species very successfully at Delaire Graff Estate. In the picture, one can see how well these Podocarpus falcatus have been used to create a very effective tall hedge around the balcony edge of the restaurant at Delaire Graff Estate. Another unusual tree for hedges is the Olea europaea. Olive trees like the Olea europaea subsp. lend themselves well to being kept as a hedge. In windy areas, a great option is the Tarchonanthus camphoratus.

This drought tolerant, wind resistant tree shoots naturally from the base and can be clipped into a really dense evergreen hedge that can also act as a windbreak.

In terms of using hedges for security purposes, nothing works quite like the Dovyalis caffra. It can be used to form an impenetrable hedge around a garden to keep unwanted animals and people out. It will grow well in either full sun or light shade and will also need regular trimming in order to maintain a good hedge. The leaves are used as fodder (bulk feed for livestock). The fruits are edible and make excellent jam. www.justtrees.co.za

Podocarpus falcatus hedge

BETH DUPLESSIS - NONKE PLANTS The Anastrabe intergerrima is a hardy, wind and drought tolerant plant, this small tree or shrub can be easily pruned into a soft hedge, or utilised in a small garden to create a wind barrier or screen. The leaves are very attractive with a creamy coloured underside enhanced by a darker green shade on top. When in flower they have a subtle scent, graduating from pale to custard yellow with a little cream in them. They begin as a bell shape but then change into a pouch shape, the flowers occur from October to May, with the seed pods being present up until July - they are naturally released as the pod splits open. This is an easy plant to grow in the right habitat, which is quite varied from full sun to partial shade.

The Myrsine Africana, very adaptable, the Myrsine is suited for the formal garden where it can be clipped into low hedges or as a structured border, tough enough for the water-wise garden it also attracts birds. It can be propagated from cuttings but is easier to grow from seeds and kept in pots until such time as the plants are well established and ready to be moved into the garden. In the winter rainfall areas of the Cape, the plants should be planted out in the winter months so that they can get a good start before the dry summer months come. www.nonkeplants.com

Anastraba hedge

ELSABE' FRANKENFELD - KRAAIBOSCH NURSERY This fast-growing indigenous shrub has glossy green compound leaves with between five and nine leaflets each and eye catching tubular flowers in many-flowered heads from spring into winter and sporadically throughout the year. It is available in a variety of colours like orange, yellow, red, salmon and pink. It is evergreen in warmer climates but loses its leaves during winter in colder areas.

Tecomaria capensis is usually planted for screening and decorative purposes, but can it be clipped to form beautiful hedges, both formal and informal. The flowers attract nectar-eating birds such as sunbirds as well as butterflies and bees. Birds also use them to nest in. The leaves and bark are used in traditional medicine for many ailments ranging from sleeplessness to stomach ache and bleeding gums.

This hardy shrub is multi-stemmed and has a scrambling habit that, if left undisturbed, can spread to about 2.5 meters. It prefers to be planted in well-drained, composted soil in full sun, although it will tolerate semishade. Regular watering is necessary until the plant is well-established, after which watering can be reduced as it can withstand periods of drought. It responds well to pruning in late winter and general fertilizer in spring to promote new growth and flowering. www.kraaibosch.com

RUDI NEETHLING - TREECO. With the growing residences in urban settings being stacked together, a well-placed hedge of trees on your border will give you a great green wall to admire and at the same time it will block off the noise from the nearby road. Syzygium guineense aka Waterpear is a very popular tree that is perfect for hedging. It is a fast growing tree with a non invasive root system. The berries will attract birds that will help create your own oasis. Being easily pruned you can really shape this tree into a more formal screen or just let it grow wild.

As a new trend the Portulacaria afra aka Spekboom is really coming into its own now as a low hedge. As the Cape is still in a serious drought the Spekboom is a great alternative to many of the more thirsty plants. This wonderful succulent is one of the world's best carbon convertors. A hectare of Spekboom will convert up to 4 tons of carbon per year. They grow well in poor soil types too. They are edible and highly nutritious, so no problem if the kids or grandkids take a mouth full. These are really an indigenous wonder plant. www.treeco.co.za

Spekboom

JENNETH PRINSLOO - PLANTWISE Buxus sempervirens is a rounded to broad-rounded shrub or small tree that is native primarily to open woodlands and rocky hillsides in Southern Europe, Northern Africa and Western Asia. Leaves are dark glossy green above and yellowish-green below. Its dense habit makes it ideal for hedging or screening and it can be closely clipped into different shapes. It is a hardy shrub that attracts bees, birds, butterflies and moths and is beneficial to insects. Buxus are a classic hedge plant that is typically grown in evenly moist, well-drained soil and roots appreciate good organic mulch.

This plant was adored by aristocratic Europeans for centuries defining elements and pathways in formal garden design. Some hedges are purely decorative while others serve a practical function. Buxus used decoratively are often trimmed to precise sizes and shapes.

Plants are generally tolerant of pruning and shearing although pruning should never be done prior to the last spring frost date. Pruning too early in spring often promotes tender new growth that may be damaged by a late frost.

Species plants are easily propagated by cuttings or seed and plants are selected based on local climate, exposure, water availability and drainage conditions. In using Buxus as hedge, the natural and built environment contribute to the visual character and quality in the landscape and almost any row of densely growing hedge will enhance security to some degree. www.plantwise.co.za

DAG WILLEMS - TREES SA Most hedges are planted with a specific purpose in mind as they can define the boundary between two neighbours; provide a screening for privacy, provide shelter for crops, shade for softer plants and to create a wind and or noise filter for the garden.

In a formal setting, hedges will be a simple form of topiary requiring regular trimming to maintain the shape. Trees that work well as clipped hedges are Afrocarpus falcatus, Afrocarpus latifolius, Carrisa bispinosa, Searsia crenata, Cupressocyparis leylandii, Diospyros whyteana, Ilex mitis & Syzygium paniculatum.

Informal hedges are less maintenance and are very often more colourful.

For this type of hedge, you can plant anything from a Hibiscus sp.to an Quercus specie.

Hedges can be created out of one or several species of plants. Using a variety of species, it makes possible to create interest at different times of the year as deciduous and evergreen trees can be utilised. Curtisia dentata, Ficus microcarpa (nitida), Ficus microcarpa var. Golden King, Photinia Ă&#x2014; fraseri 'Red Robin', Liquidambar styraciflua, Melaleuca alternifolia, Podocarpus henkelii, Viburnum sinensis & Viburnum tinus. One of the wonderful aspects of planting a hedge is that you can create a living barrier instead of just building a permanent fencing structure or a wall. The plants might take 2 to 3 years to be come well established, but once fully grown will create a virtually impenetrable barrier. Very often it is better to use species that have long spines for this type of barrier and a wonderful option to consider would be Punica granatum 'Bhagwa or Dovyalis caffra.

In coastal areas windbreaks are always an essential part of the garden layout. The selection of species will depend on the severity of the wind exposure they will be subjected to as well as the size of the garden.

Species that work well are Brachylaena discolor, Buddleja saligna, Buddleja salviifolia, Dodonaea angustifolia, Sideroxylon inerme & Tarchonanthus camphoratus. www.treessa.co.za

It offers excellent levels of efficiency and performance and because of the brushless, highefficiency electric motor is practically maintenance-free

Neater hedges with less effort, more safety Invest in STIHL’s hedge trimmers, with a choice of cordless, electric or petrol models, to make trimming jobs safer, quicker, easier. All are lightweight and powerful and come in standard and long-reach models, with the extended reach of the latter enabling users to neaten the tallest, widest hedges from the safety of the ground. For maximum convenience, try the HLA 85 model, an impressive cordless hedge trimmer with telescopic shaft offering an impressive total reach of 3.3m. This low noise, low vibration, zero emission model is part of the STIHL lithium-ion PRO cordless range, and is well-suited to professional applications. It

shares a battery with other tools in the PRO cordless range for total convenience and mobility, and there is no loss of power as the battery loses charge. It offers excellent levels of efficiency and performance and because of the brushless, high-efficiency electric motor is practically maintenance-free. The blade itself is adjustable by up to 115 degrees to suit the application and is double-sided for safer vertical and horizontal trimming. With no fumes, vibrations, power cables or need for ladders, the HLA 85 offers home and professional users a sense of freedom, safety and power.

Like any premium item, STIHL products are only available at specialised dealers nationwide, for expert advice and superior after-sales service.

www.stihl.co.za

Designer

PLANTS

Renowned Garden Designer, Leon Kluge, creates a small meadow garden in the beautiful area of Constantia, Cape town.

Gardens are paintings and if you do not get your colours and textures just right, then your painting will not be a masterpiece.

When Leon designs gardens the plants are the main attraction as opposed to the architecture, although the planting pallet should speak to the architecture the plants remain the brush strokes.

He feels that the best place to look for inspiration on how plant textures work together is in nature.

Opposites attract in Leon's view, such as this small wild meadow project where grasses were used to soften the urban landscape but thorny thistle like plants protrude through the grass mimicking exactly how they would grow together in nature, to add a subtle splash of

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Pro Landscaper Africa | May 2018

colour, the scabiosa peaks through the grass but the short leaves of the scabiosa stay hidden below the grass. This effect doesn't make the garden look overly busy in the centre.

On the perimeter of the grassy meadow a perennial planting was established to frame the meadow in order for the client to have cut-flowers for the house but also to attract as many Bee's and chameleons as possible, whilst at the same time hiding the boundary walls so that the garden will link with the green surroundings and trees outside this plant lovers garden paradise.

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Plant Palette •

Pennisetum "Cream Falls"

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Pennisetum "Tall Tales"

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Pennisetum "Shogun"

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Pennisetum "Red Buttons"

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Stipa gigantea

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Eragrostis trichoides

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Deschampsia caespitosa

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Uniola latifolia

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Nepeta "Hills Giant"

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Campanula latifola

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Achillea millefolium "red, cerise & light pink"

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Achillea "Red Velvet"

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Achillea "Joey"

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Salvia "Azure Blue"

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Veronica spicata

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Thymus vulgaris

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Agastache "Lavender Fields"

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Monarda didyma "purple & red velvet"

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•

Phlomis ttalica

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Lavandula sidonie

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Salvia canariensis

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Ruella brittoniana

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Lobelia cinnabar

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Salvia "Parkhuis Pas"

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Campanula rotundifolia

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Mimulus "Orange"

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Sisyrinchium "yellow & white"

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Lychnis coronaria

Pro Landscaper Africa | May 2018

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N U RT U R E F E AT U R E

LIFE IS...

CHANGING Life is changing at an incredibly fast pace – look back to 2008 – only 10 years ago. Who would have known that Bitcoin, Artificial Intelligence (AI) powered by algorithms, Rooftop and Vertical Gardens and Urban Farming would be part of our daily lives… and the concept of Green Buildings and Organic food was just too way-out for the business world!

without consideration of the impact on the environment. Their rivers were dying off from discharging effluent into them, tourist beaches were green and slimy from excess nitrogen and phosphate runoff from farmlands. People were getting sick with asthma and allergies from foul air and toxic residues used on food and the environment - so they responded by cleaning up!

This change is affecting ALL sectors of the economy, and especially our future lifestyles.

Landscape Architects, Designers, Installers, Property Developers, Architects, Green Building Projects, and Turf and Grounds Maintenance find themselves at the cutting edge of these developments.

Does this not sound like the SA of today? If we want to improve our environment, each of us will have to influence meaningful change wherever we can.

Talborne Organics was an early adopter of green technology in SA. We started our company in 1991 by exporting Organic Fertilizers to Germany in response to European legislation to halt the pollution of water, soil and air caused by rapidly growing consumption of natural resources by a dense population,

How to change the landscape?

Any new installation or landscape maintenance project will only be as good as the foundation that it was built on – the SOIL that sustains it, and all life around it. The Organic philosophy is that all health starts in fertile soil: “A HEALTHY SOIL = HEALTHY PLANTS = HEALTHY PEOPLE AND ANIMALS = HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT FOR ALL”

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Pro Landscaper Africa | May 2018

www.prolandscaper.co.za

N U RT U R E F E AT U R E

"The whole of creation depends upon the soil, which is the ultimate foundation of our existence"- Friedrich A Fallow

Too often a beautiful, creative design is installed without proper basic organic methods for soil preparation being done. This can ruin your project and your reputation.

Rather do the following: •

Correct the pH, to remediate excess acidic or alkaline soils as plants require before planting.

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Enrich the soil with compost, for healthy soil eco-systems and improve structure of clay or sandy soils.

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Add correct organic fertilizer which supplies nutrients required for healthy plant establishment and growth with planting.

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Remove building rubble off-site, do not use as landfill for planting areas with a thin layer of topsoil to disguise it.

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Correct structural groundworks, by not planting in poor subsoil while covering fertile topsoil.

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Mulch and use water absorption and retention methods.

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Stabilize topsoil to prevent soil loss through erosion by wind and water.

Organic solutions that will help your business sustain the change Talborne Organics is a local manufacturer, leading innovation by servicing and supplying the

www.prolandscaper.co.za

very best quality organic and green solutions to all growing sectors throughout Southern Africa. These include Corporate, Commercial and Residential Landscaping, Organic Farming, Gardening and Sports Turf maintenance.

Talborne Organic VITA fertilizers are Certified

by Control Union of the Netherlands for EU & USA NOP Organic Input standards, so ideal for Corporates complying with ISO or JSE environmental standards, while remaining cost effective. Local jobs are created through recycling in rapidly expanding Green Projects such as Eco Developments, Urban Living spaces and Green recreation such as Sportsfields and Community Parks.

Talborne Technical Advisory & Training Services can assist with remedial advice for soil correction and fertilizer application and staff training for converting to Green and Organic methods and products.

Talborne organic fertilizers: We offer a range of options formulated for peak performance: VITA ORGANIC RANGE: These are organic versions of familiar fertilizer blends like Vita Grow 2:3:2(16), Vita Fruit & Flower 31:5(18) and Vita Green 5:1:5(16). Organic and MSDS Certificates can be supplied to meet ISO, Environmental and Sustainability compliance on projects. After 20 years, these products are tried and trusted to perform under the toughest conditions in all landscapes, do not burn plants or lawns and are water wise and labour saving as they are applied every 4 to 6 months.

ENVIRO-CARE RANGE: These biological fertilizer blends are formulated from an organic base, enriched with select chemical fertilizers to boost nutrient levels and are well suited to large scale installations, yet still gentle on the environment.

SOIL CONDITIONERS FERTILIS EARTHWORM CASTINGS: Dairy cow manure is processed by the red wiggler earthworm into a weed free Humus. This concentrated product enriches soil fertility, inoculates soil life and adds stable carbon, which kick-starts soil health in new and old installations.

It is added to enrich growing mediums for containers or raised beds, and is an excellent topdressing for lawn and turf maintenance.

BIOGROW NON-TOXIC PEST & DISEASE CONTROL: We supply selected organic pest solutions.

LANDSCAPING & GROWING SYSTEMS URBANSCAPE WATER SAVING, RETENTION & ROOFTOP GARDENS: Talborne Organics is a distributor of the innovative URBANSCAPE range of spun mineral rock wool, used for water retention in containers, or for planting into and lightweight installations for rooftop gardens.

BERA LANDSCAPE FEATURES & STABILIZATION SYSTEMS: The BERA geometric stabilizing system for gravel surfaces and high-traffic grass and lawn areas. These reduce maintenance and control storm water run-off.

A new range of garden/lawn edging options are available.

THE URBAN BOX – An attractive recycled wooden growing container on a pallet base, which has tiered hinges for fold-up storage and easy transport. These can be painted in a range of colours to suit your landscape or finished in a natural wood stain. Ideal for planting Herb boxes, Edible Gardens and Succulents in small spaces.

Pro Landscaper Africa | May 2018

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Growing Health Growing Health

Fertilizer for Certified Organic Growing

Sizes Available: 2kg, 5kg, 10kg and 25kg Tel: (013) 933 3172 / (061) 454 9632 â&#x20AC;¢ Cell: 079 896 5814 Email: info@talborne.co.za

www.talborne.co.za

LGH Pro Landscaper Quarter page May18.pdf

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2018/04/24

08:47

healthy soil = healthy plants = healthy people

ROOS WHOLESALE NURSERY Roos Wholesale Nursery is a Quality Plant Supplier to the Retail and Landscaping Markets.

Contact: Gerrie 082 410 7219 | Office: Elsie 011 956 6939 accounts@roosnursery.co.za

18 Waterval Cres, Woodmead, Open Saturdays 9am-12pm www.livingstones.co.za

*Delivery to JHB North only

N U RT U R E F E AT U R E

WHY I

LOVEHORTICULTURE

Horticulture is something that connects you to people and I really enjoy interacting with people. I have been in the industry for 21 years and I have worked in both wholesale and retail plant nurseries. I have now gained almost 20 years of experience at Shadowlands Wholesale Nursery, starting out as a general 6pack planter and then making my way into delivery for clients.

I then moved into sales and have worn many hats thereafter. Currently I am the Production Administrator.

on people, from creating beautiful gardens on one hand, to being used for medicine to feed the world on the other is absolutely fulfilling.

As Horticulturists we provide the plants that bring nature into your garden and relaxation to your busy lives. If I am in need of some relaxation you will certainly find me in the garden, getting down on my knees and getting my hands dirty.

Horticulture is not only a science but also a form of art. The satisfaction of watching something grow from seed to maturity might take some time but, it certainly teaches patience and a sense of accomplishment. The beauty that you can create with your horticultural expertise can be quite rewarding, not only in landscaping but also in floral design which is something I am currently exploring. Gardening is also a wonderful bonding moment for myself and my daughter- who loves to get down and dirty with me in the garden.

The impact that the horticultural industry has

It might seem an interesting choice when times are so tough in our industry. I believe however that there are so many avenues to explore, from landscaping to floral design, community garden planning, plant breeding and the list goes on, there are so many possibilities. It is my view that we should adapt to the change, not give up so easily when we are faced with something like the drought. There are so many plant varieties which do fantastically with less water and we need to learn to be innovative during these times.

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What and who influenced my path into horticulture?

Growing up on FERN STREET and with my neighbour at the time always creating the most beautiful floral designs- not to mention my cousin, Jacky Goliath (Owner of De Fynne Nursery) who studied Horticulture and somehow convinced me to give it a try, you could say that it was inevitable that I would end up in this arena. It is the best decision I have ever made.

NATALIE DE WAAL Where do I see horticulture in the next 5 years?

Automated equipment within the industry is the future. Wholesalers will scale down, become specialised growers and grow only specific crops for the climatic condition. We should have less unskilled labour, by perhaps offering more short courses to train the unskilled to work in specific areas of the nursery only. The Technikon and college graduates of today want to jump straight into a managerial position and do not understand that at Tech you are only taught a fraction of what it is to be a well-rounded Horticulturalist.

Having that diploma is the first step into the horticultural field of course, but you need to acquire knowledge at ground level. I have been involved at one of the most reputable wholesale nurseries in Cape Town, Shadowlands Wholesale Nursery and feel they always have kept up with the times. We used to be a one stop shop because that is what the industry required, but now we have adapted to the change that the drought has bought upon us and we make sure that the industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s requirements are met.

Despite the drought we should always remain positive and find innovative ways to change with the times.

Pro Landscaper Africa | May 2018

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LITTLE INTERVIEWS

LITTLE INTERVIEWS

TA N I A F O U R I E

WERNER LANDSBERG

Owner of Men In Green Landscaping

Owner of Landsberg Landscaping

What is your favourite landscaped area in South Africa?

What is your favourite landscaped area in South Africa?

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

Bosjes within the winelands of the Breede Valley.

How is Sustainability embedded into your business practices?

How is Sustainability embedded into your business practices?

The 3 P’s – Profits, People and Planet. Men in Green strive to maintain open and honest relationships with our clients and incorporating their needs and dreams. Our design process is based on a one on one discussion and using all our experience to maintain and protect the natural environment at all times.

Our extensive experience has enabled us to design systems within the clients budget. Men in Green believe in the protection of the environment, our gardens sustain themselves by making cuttings and filling up garden beds with water wise plants. What we remove we put back into our gardens. Insects, Soil and plants. We use greywater and harvesting systems

Port Elizabeth is currently in the grip of a bad drought. Therefor all projects main aim is always to be sustainable. As soon as we hear “sustainable “we tend to think renewable, but in short I design to protect rather than to renew.

What is one item you cannot live a day without?

My hand secateurs Who/What is your biggest professional influence and why?

What is one item you cannot live a day without?

Sunscreen and my measuring wheel.

Who/What is your biggest professional influence and why?

It is very difficult to only specify one person, as the company has been through so much growth and blessed years. I can just give a big thank you to all the people and clients that helped me to make the company a big success.

What is the moto that you live by?

Susan Sands Landscaper and Mentor – She has a wealth of information

Live each day as it is your last!

What is the moto that you live by?

If opportunity does not knock, built a door.

Don’t be afraid to ask advice from fellow Landscapers, we tend to get stuck in our own ideas and styles. Try to network more and share creativity that is at the end of the day what we all love!

One piece of advice for the landscaping industry?

Respect your environment.

One piece of advice for the landscaping industry?

Top Plant?

Aloe Ferox

Top Plant?

Mackaya Bella – Beautiful hardy, evergreen shrub with dark green, glossy leaves and magnificent long bunches of lilac or white shaped flowers in early spring.

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Pro Landscaper Africa | May 2018

61

LITTLE INTERVIEWS

JP DU PLESSIS Division Manager @ Interplant Horticulture

What is your favourite landscaped area in South Africa?

I love the tree rich Century City area in Cape Town.

How is Sustainability embedded into your business practices?

With the current water situation in the western cape we encourage water wise practice and source local and indigenous plants.

What is one item you cannot live a day without?

RINUS STRYDOM Ondela Landscapes – Owner

What is your favourite landscaped area in South Africa?

About 25km from Lusikisiki, Transkei which we did last year.

How is Sustainability embedded into your business practices?

We urge our clients to utilize Grey water for their outer spaces through automated harvesting systems connected to market leading “smart watering” devices.

Definitely Coffee

What is one item you cannot live a day without?

Updates from weather stations

Who/What is your biggest professional influence and why?

Who/What is your biggest professional influence and why?

Must be my dad. He has done well professionally in his lifetime, and he is the one that made me realize the beauty of Horticulture and landscaping.

Technology by means of automated Apps in your garden space that allows you more detailed maintenance of the space. It allows anybody to make informed decisions about their own gardens as opposed to just wasting valuable resources.

What is the moto that you live by?

Live every day as if it's your last.

One piece of advice for the landscaping industry?

Make every drop of water count. Use water wise plant selections.

Top Plant?

I do like the Strelitzia Regina, because of its unique flower.

What is the moto that you live by?

Passion meets creativity – Love what you do, the rest shall follow One piece of advice for the landscaping industry?

Concentrate more on the reality of the practical lines, depth and structure of the outer space. It is not always about which plant, but how the holistic design brings serenity to your emotions.

Top Plant?

Buxus coupled with Duranta in 2 layers.

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Pro Landscaper Africa | May 2018

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