Big or small, your garden must be a jol!

Every year for Garden Day, the Perdeskoen community – just opposite Babylonstoren, where members of our farm team live – open their hearts and garden gates to participate in the annual garden competition. This year, the judging process was once again a true privilege. It’s clear what care, effort and a good dose of love can achieve in a garden 

This year’s judges were Liesl van der Walt (former Head Gardener at Babylonstoren) and Anke Dunasaki, a landscape designer from DDS Landscaping. Twenty-two homes took part, and the competition for top honours was fierce. Judges looked for thoughtful use of colour, design, neatness, fruit and vegetable plantings, and the presence of an ornamental tree. 

Jan and Gerda Kanfer once again took first place with their beautiful and vibrant outdoor space. The use of recycled glass bottles to border flower beds showed true creativity. “We absolutely love working in the garden,” says Gerda. 

Jumat and Ronel Lewies came in second, just as they did last year, except this year they missed top honours by only half a point. “We always go for exotics. We love flowers,” says Ronel with pride. “We only had two days to prepare for the competition and worked very hard to get the garden ready.” With the top two gardens remaining consistent for two consecutive years, it underscores the dedication and focus that gardening requires. 

Kallie Siegelaar placed third, receiving special mention for his beautiful roses and fruit trees.  

Following all the hard work, how does one celebrate a win? With a garden party, of course! The three winning households will host Garden Day parties on Saturday 11 October to celebrate their beautiful blooms with loved ones.