Random Harvest Newsletter Archive

Dear Indigenous Enthusiast,

February has been a truly magical month for us here at the nursery, `and I hope it has been for you in your garden as well. The wetter weather has brought a whirlwind of activity on the farm. 

The weeds have been practically rubbing their hands in glee, presenting us with a significant challenge to keep the plants in bags clean and   weed-free. 

We’re also currently on a mission to trim back the lush growth that the rains have encouraged, particularly in areas where it spills over the pathways. In fact, we even had to clear the driveway to ensure a smooth passage for our guests staying in the cottages.

PUBLIC HOLIDAY: We are open on Human Rights Day March 21st.

IN THE NURSERY 

This time of year always reminds me how worthwhile it was to invest in building furrows to channel runoff water from the roofs and nursery into the dam. 

Every drop was captured, and the results were incredible - the dam has doubled in size since last month! Jeff and I couldn’t resist driving down twice a day just to see the water level rising. 

With all this rain the roads were really bad so Jeff organised a team to fill in the potholes. Thanks to their tireless efforts, the road is now in much better shape, and I’m optimistic that your drive to visit us will be much smoother and more enjoyable.

It really fascinates me how the old oak tree stump remains a thriving part of the ecosystem, with beautiful fungi still growing around it. This is a testament to the power of nature when left undisturbed by harmful chemicals. Even after the tree’s life has ended, the stump continues to support new growth, proving that a natural, chemical-free environment allows life to flourish in all stages. 

We still have the wood we processed from it and have already crafted a few beautiful tables. Admiring the life still thriving around the stump, I’m also exploring creative ways to use the remaining wood, ensuring that every part of the tree continues to serve a purpose. 

FOOD PARCELS

We remain dedicated to empowering people in the nearby informal settlements by providing them with practical skills to create new income opportunities. 

A few weeks ago, we welcomed two individuals and Frans taught them how to bake a selection of delicious treats to sell. Their enthusiasm was truly inspiring, and they left excited to put their new skills into action. We look forward to seeing them succeed on their journey!  

I am deeply grateful for your ongoing generosity and support with the food parcels, which has made it possible to distribute 300 food parcels to needy families monthly.  It is both touching and heartwarming to be the recipient of such goodwill.

I am not sure if you are aware of how your donations impact the whole community that we assist. Suddenly there is hope for parents to start making their own means to support their families.

If you are able to continue assisting us in this work these are the banking details: 

Random Harvest Nursery, FNB 51441129818 Cheque account: code 25 07 41, Reference: Food Parcels

I would also like to remind you that every cent that is donated goes to the purchase of food only and not to any other expense (these are carried by Random Harvest).

Kiddies eco-activity

Spot the Hidden Creatures at Random Harvest!

Bring the children along for a fun and exciting adventure! We’ve set up a special "Spot the Creatures" trail around our retail area, where kids can search for hidden animals and insects while learning about nature. They will receive a pamphlet with instructions, and as the hidden creatures are identified along the trail, they’ll fill in the names of these creatures that they discover. 

Once finished, they can head to reception to claim a special little treat we’ve prepared for them. This engaging activity is a wonderful way to spark curiosity and appreciation for the natural world. Running from March 1st to April 1st, 2025, it’s a perfect outing for families. No booking necessary and its free of charge - we only ask that the kids bring a few items for our food parcel drive.

BIRD WALKS

The quiet rivalry over the old Hamerkop nest continues, with the Barn Owls now taking up residence. 

After the Egyptian Geese previously occupied it, the Barn Owls have now moved in. It’s fascinating to watch nature’s ever-changing game as different species come and go. Hopefully the owls will be spotted on the next bird walks, dates of which are as follows :

Date:     8th of March with Chris Hines 
Time:     06h30 for 07h00

Date:     12 April with Lance Robinson
Time:     06h30 for 07h00 

Cost:    R195.00 per person, this includes a delicious breakfast buffet 

Booking is essential - please contact Ronald on [email protected] or Tel. No. 066-587-3077   

COFFEE MORNING

Date:  Wednesday 5th March at 10h30
Topic: The importance of Bug Hotels and how they are made.
Join Tim and Pauline of the BaobabCollab as they demonstrate how a Baobug bug hotel is made.

The Baobug is a cast acrylic resin bug hotel, inspired by the baobab tree. It is designed from the ground up to be sustainable, recyclable, collaborative and customisable. They can be made in a variety of colours and styles, so every new Baobug is a chance to experiment. The presentation will cover the design process that led to the final product, talk through the uses and applications, as well as the importance of bug hotels in urban spaces. 

We’ll also discuss the materials involved and how they were chosen during the demonstration. For more information about The BaobabCollab and the Baobug, please visit their Instagram: @baobabcollab.  After the talk, you can visit the pollinator garden for some inspiration on what pollinator friendly plants and features you can include in your garden.

Date:  Wednesday 2nd April at 10h30
Topic: Tree walk in the garden
Jeff will give a short presentation on trees suitable for small gardens, sharing his recommendations on the best species and their benefits. After the talk, he will lead a guided tree walk through the garden, offering a closer look at different species and practical advice on selecting and caring for them.

Please remember to bring along some non-perishable food for our food parcels. 

Coffee Morning Cost: R25.00 per person towards our food parcel drive.

Edible weeds Workshop by Nikki Brighton
Date: Saturday, 15 March, 2025
Time: 9am – 11am
Nikki Brighton's immersive experience will focus on finding and tasting common weeds, aka uncultivated food, in the Random Harvest gardens.  During her workshop you will learn to identify various tasty edibles and surprise your palate while you forage for free food.  

Nikki is a passionate rewilder who will inspire you to look at your garden differently. This could be life changing! 

“This workshop is an absolute eye opener. Nikki has so much knowledge and an amazing way of sharing her passion for plants.” XAVIER

Nikki’s three books – Wild About Weeds, Mnandi and Edible Weeds (a pocket guide) will be available at the workshop. Strictly by booking: please contact Nikki on 083 473 3074 or [email protected] 

HOLISTIC WELLNESS RETREATS & WORKSHOPS

Jana is thrilled to be hosting and facilitating, with Michele Higginson from Asha Yoga Studio, An End-of-Summer Treat: A Yoga and Nature Immersion Wellness Retreat on Saturday 8 March 2025. You can book a 1-day Saturday package for the yoga and nature-based wellness activities. Alternatively, book an overnight package and enjoy a weekend of yoga, nature immersion, and downtime on our farm.
Other wellness retreats happening in March include:
•    Reboot & Rejuvenate Weekend Wellness Retreat: Saturday 15 – Sunday 16 March.
•    Retreat Into Nature Mini Wellness Experiences: Sunday 2 March and Sunday 23 March.

For more information, contact Jana directly at [email protected] or WhatsApp her at 076 329 8692. Alternatively, head over to her website www.journeytreehealing.com.

PRACTICAL GARDENER TRAINING

Fridays March 14 & May 16, 08h30 – 15h30

Now in its tenth year at Random Harvest Nursery, this practical programme for gardeners at any level and in any industry (estates, schools and corporate) demonstrates sustainable gardening techniques, including soil health, feeding programmes, pruning, lawn care, propagation, care of tools, plant knowledge and more. It is a well-rounded inspirational day with a beautiful certificate awarded at the end of the workshop.

Give your gardener the gift of knowledge by enrolling him/her today.  Email: [email protected] or WhatsApp Lindsay on 0824499237 for more information and to reserve your gardener's place.

3-day Garden Design Masterclass :  Tues, 13 – Thurs, 15 May

Join Lindsay at Random Harvest Nursery for this life-changing masterclass. Over the three days, we will explore the essential steps of garden design, inspirational plant choices, create habitats for wildlife, how to draw an accurate plan (crucial for quantification), followed by a day of essential horticultural practice. The course is ideal for both the homeowner and anyone wanting to work in the green industry. Email: [email protected] or WhatsApp Lindsay on 0824499237 for more information.

LANDSCAPING COURSE

Enhance Your Landscaping Skills with JPJ Landscapes – Training Programs This March 2025
Are you passionate about landscaping and eager to elevate your skills? JPJ Landscapes is excited to announce two hands-on training programs this March, designed to help you grow your knowledge and expertise in landscape design, horticulture, and quoting. Whether you’re looking to solidify your foundation in the industry or expand your skill set to include quoting, these courses are the perfect opportunity to take your career to the next level. 

Course Options:

1. Basic Landscape and Horticulture Program
Dates: 25th – 27th March 2025
Cost: R4,500.00
This 3-day program will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of essential landscape design principles and horticultural practices. You’ll learn the fundamentals of designing beautiful, sustainable landscapes while gaining key horticultural knowledge to ensure your projects thrive. It’s an ideal starting point for anyone looking to build a strong foundation in the landscaping industry. 

2. Basic Landscape, Horticulture, and Quoting Program
Dates: 25th – 28th March 2025
Cost: R6,000.00
This 4-day program is an extended version of the 3-day course, including everything covered in the Basic Landscape and Horticulture Program, plus an additional day dedicated to landscape quoting. This extra day will equip you with the tools and knowledge to provide accurate, professional quotes for your clients, ensuring you can manage projects efficiently and with confidence. 
For More Information, please contact Judy on [email protected]

TEA GARDEN

After weeks of experimenting with gluten-free ingredients, we’ve finally perfected an irresistible treat, a Gluten-Free Italian Almond and Coconut Cake! This delicious sponge, made with almond and coconut, has a light yet rich texture. It’s finished with a glossy apricot jam glaze, fresh raspberries, and roasted flaked almonds for the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. A true treat for both gluten-free and non-gluten-free cake lovers alike! 

We have also had some extra hands in the kitchen, A wonderful lady Brigitta who is staying in our cottages has been helping Franc perfect the recipe, making the baking process even more fun and rewarding.

COTTAGES

Mashudu, a delightful young lady, recently stayed in one of our cottages, and it was an absolute pleasure having her. She made a lasting impression on everyone, including myself. From the moment she arrived, she embraced her experience with warmth and curiosity,. taking the time to reflect on the unique charm of Random Harvest, which she expressed beautifully in a heartfelt article. I think she captures the atmosphere here perfectly. 

We really appreciate Mashudu’s kind words and the time she took to write about the inspiration and the little moments of joy, she found during her stay Random Harvest. Click the link here to enjoy her lovely article!

RETAIL

The grasses in the retail section are looking stunning at the moment. They are full of vibrant colour and lush texture. Now is the perfect time to plant them and add movement, structure, and interest to your garden. With many species to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect grasses to enhance your space. 

Ever since the rains, the guys have had to work extra hard to keep the sections clean as the silt from the run-off water soon collects between the packets. 

The plants in the nursery are looking amazing. They’ve put on a burst of fresh growth and vibrant colour, making this the perfect time to refresh your garden. March is always a great month for adding a splash of colour, and the retail staff are on hand to assist you with what you need.

Garden pests and diseases are especially abundant at this time of year. If they become overwhelming, consider our organic, eco-friendly pest control and plant health booster solutions. However, remember that eliminating caterpillars means fewer butterflies gracing your garden. A balanced approach—managing, rather than eradicating—ensures we can continue to share our gardens with the creatures that make them truly alive.

Jonathan has carefully handpicked a selection of beautiful bulbs, now available for sale in the shop. With a little care and patience, these bulbs will reward you with bursts of colour and beauty, making your garden come alive in the months ahead. 

WHOLESALE

We are excited to resume the monthly talks followed by a mini high tea with our wholesale customers, providing valuable insights to help you create stunning gardens for your clients. 
Booking is essential: Contact Jonathan on [email protected] or 076 830 5242 /082 553 0598 .

Saturday, 15 March 09:00 – 12:00
Topic: Perfect Plant Combinations
Jeff and Jonathan will be sharing their expertise on plant combinations, offering ideas on how to pair different species for maximum impact and beauty. We hope this talk gives you fresh ideas and inspiration when designing beautiful gardens.  Remember, we are always here to assist with plant selection and offer advice to help you make the best choices of indigenous plants for your projects. We look forward to seeing you there!  

Saturday, 12 April 09:00 – 12:00 
Topic: Unusual Trees at Random Harvest
Join us for another insightful talk, where we will focus on unusual indigenous trees available at Random Harvest. Discover unique and interesting tree options that you can offer to your customers to add character and distinction to their landscapes.  

As always, we are here to support you with advice and plant selection. We look forward to discussing these fascinating trees with you and helping you bring more exceptional gardens to life! 

SHOP

Feeding birds in March in South Africa is a great way to support local species as natural food sources begin to change with the seasons. By choosing specific foods, you can attract the birds you want to see—seeds for seed-eating birds like doves, waxbills, canaries and finches, fruit for fruit-eaters like barbets and bulbuls, or nectar for sunbirds. 

Providing the right food not only helps birds stay healthy but also brings a variety of beautiful species to your garden, making birdwatching even more enjoyable. 

We have beautiful, handcrafted bird feeders made by Obrian who is a talented local craftsman. By purchasing one, you’re not only creating a welcoming space for birds but also empowering a young entrepreneur in his small but growing business.

Suet balls R34.50
Suet slab R34.50
Suet bits R129.50
Nutty putty R130.00
Peanuts R220.00
Seeds loose R70.00 
Nectar mix R15.50
Seed bells from R26.50
Luv bugs R57.50
Bird feeders from 117.00

PLANTS LOOKING GOOD

Ruttyruspolia Phyllis van Heerden
A hardy, attractive, semi-deciduous shrub with scrambling habit, for sunny or light shade areas. Use as a background shrub, as a trimmed dense screening hedge or simply plant in a container. The large pink flowering heads (December to May) are long lasting in a vase. Also great in a wildlife friendly garden as the flowers attract carpenter bees and masses of butterflies. Prune back after flowering to keep in shape and ensure mass flowering the next season. Size 1.5 to 2m

Euphorbia ingens - Giant Euphorbia 
A distinctive, very drought resistant tree for striking garden or container subject. When mature, it forms a hardy, massive, tree-like succulent with a dense crown 4-angled branches and a short, dark green stem. The yellow-green flowers attract bees, butterflies and insects in autumn and winter, and are followed by reddish to purple fruit, which are relished by birds. Plant in sun to semi-shade, in extremely well drained soil. Size: up to 7,5m

Combretum krausii - Forest Bushwillow
A beautifully decorative tree for sun or semi-shade. The lovely whitish bark (exposed even more if you prune the tree up) and glossy dark green leaves that turn vivid red and purple in autumn give this tree its beauty. The tree even retains these colours for most of the winter. In spring when the new leaves flush, they are often white, making this a gorgeous foliage plant. Spring and early summer see this tree attracting both both birds and insects to the garden with its small, white, sweetly scented puffball flowers. Size 4 to 10m 

Deinbollia oblongifolia - Dune Soapberry 
So many attractive features in one plant! One of the best small trees for attracting butterflies, moths, other insects and birds to the garden, with both fruit and flowers. Large glossy green leaves make this an attractive garden plant for shady areas that also makes a good container plant for indoors. Size 1.5 to 5m.

Loxostylis alata - Tarwood 
A beautiful small tree for full sun or semi-shade that lends colour as well as fine texture to the garden with its foliage and flowers. The new growth is red, turning a lovely glossy dark green. Female trees also bear flowers with sepals that turn red. Late spring to early autumn also sees white, scented flowers adorning both male and female trees. The tree’s corky grey bark also adds colour and texture to the garden. Size 5 to 8 m

Justicia capensis - Money Plant 
This good garden plant for forest gardens or shady gardens will also attract numerous pollinating insects including butterflies with its scented magenta and white flowers. Pruning it will give a denser growth habit and more flowers. It can take some sun and does well in shade. Size to 2m

Asystasia gangetica - Creeping Foxglove 
This rewarding ground cover is so easy to grow and is very versatile. It can be used as a mass planting under large trees and borders in full sun, semi-shade or full shade. It is also a good container plant and is often used in hanging baskets. It is an important butterfly host plant so attracts many species of butterfly to the garden.  The more it is pruned, the more compact the growth, and it will also bear more of its short spikes of large fragrant, white, Foxglove-like flowers from autumn to spring. Size 15 to 20cm

PLANTS ON SPECIAL – LESS 15%

Crassula expansa fragilis - Striped Fragile Crassula 
If you’ve been looking for a groundcover that thrives in those difficult, dry, dark, shade areas under trees, where other plants struggle to grow, then this is it. It is also suitable for containers and for planting between stepping-stones or cascading over rocks in rockeries. Shaded areas come to life with hanging baskets of this soft, delicate looking but vigorous ornamental groundcover. It is also suitable as an indoor office plant. This pretty plant bears masses of tiny, star-like, white flowers throughout summer and early autumn, which attract a large variety of small, non-honey-bee pollinating insects. Size: 15cm

Ziziphus mucronata - Buffalo Thorn 
I love this small to very hardy, medium sized tree that makes a good garden subject in sun or semi-shade. But then I am a sucker for anything that brings this much wildlife to the garden! . It is a host plant to several species of butterfly. A must for a bird garden, and the insect life that the flowers support throughout summer is staggering.  Size 3 to 10m

Plectranthus ecklonii - Large Spur-flower Bush 
March would not be nearly as breathtaking without the beautiful large but delicate spikes of pink, white or mauve flowers of Plectranthus eckloni. With its large, quilted leaves, it creates a great backdrop in shade and semi-shaded areas. The purple flowered form seems to take a surprising amount of sun. If you are willing to prune this shrub back to 30cm at the end of winter and dress with a thick layer of compost or organic mulch, it will reward you with exquisite and delicate colour year after year. It attracts insects and butterflies to the garden and therefore also attracts birds. Size 1 to 1.5m

Indigofera frutescens - River Indigo 
This pretty, small tree is a lovely garden subject for smaller gardens and is really beautiful planted in groves. It also makes an exceptional container plant and works very well on a flat balcony or patio garden. The attractive mottled bark, combined with delicate feathery foliage and blooming at a very young age with beautiful pink flower spikes all contribute to this little tree’s popularity. As it’s flowers attract a host of insects and insect eating birds, it is a great addition to a wildlife friendly garden. Size 1 to 4m

Dyschoriste thunbergiiflora - Purple Bells 
A very versatile and gorgeous shrub with subtle variegation, that is a good hedge plant, providing a small screen. It can also be clipped into a formal hedge or left as an informal shrubby hedge. Excellent container plant for morning sun or semi-shaded patios and balcony gardens. It is covered in spectacular, dark blue, trumpet-shaped flowers with a purple throat almost all summer and into autumn. The flowers are pollinated by carpenter bees and other pollinating insects. Size 1 to 1.5m

Aloe cooperi - Cooper’s Aloe (ex open ground)
This very hardy, summer to early autumn flowering Aloe is a beautiful addition to a wetland or natural pool edge planting or a well-watered grassland garden. The bold flowers attract nectar feeding birds such as Sunbirds and White Eyes. They also make beautiful cut flowers. It thrives in a variety of soil types and unusually for an Aloe, thrives in marshy places. Size 40 to 50cm

GARDENING TIP

Have you ever noticed how much better plants thrive with rainwater compared to tap water? That’s because rainwater is naturally soft, free from the chemicals found in treated water, and packed with essential nutrients that plants love.

If you don’t have a rainwater tank, you can still take advantage of this natural resource by collecting rainwater in an old bin, drum, or any large container. Position your container where runoff from roofs or gutters can easily fill it, maximizing water collection during rainfall. To keep your stored rainwater clean and safe for use, avoid letting it sit for too long. Covering the container with fine mesh or a lid helps prevent debris from falling in and stops mosquitoes from breeding in the stagnant water. 

If you plan to store it for longer periods, consider adding a small amount of organic mosquito control, like mosquito dunks, to keep pests at bay without harming your plants.  Using rainwater for your garden not only benefits your plants but also reduces water waste and helps conserve this precious resource. I strongly recommend giving it a try and watch your garden flourish.

While going through my old pictures, I came across this one and thought I should share it with you. It’s a little raincoat my mom made for her succulents that don’t like too much water. A simple but clever way to protect delicate plants from excess rain! If you have plants that are sensitive to too much moisture, you can do the same to keep them happy and healthy.

ON THE FARM

This season has been nothing short of confusing, and it seems the plants feel the same way! With the unpredictable weather, we were surprised to see a Clivia miniata (yellow form) flowering at this time of year - something completely out of season.

The European Honey Buzzard has become a familiar sight on the farm, often frequenting the beehives in search of an easy meal. I have mixed feelings about this opportunistic guest – it is both fascinating to watch and troublesome for the buzzing workers. 

The recent rains have brought the dam to life, with water birds out in full force. I am delighted that it looks like the Malachite Kingfishers have bred here, as a juvenile was spotted on the last bird walk! 

Even the usually secretive Common Reed Warbler made a rare appearance out in the open. 

My staff have been hard at work weeding the grassland, making sure it stays free from invasive plants. With all the rain we’ve been getting, the transformation has been incredible. 

With the way it looked just a few months ago, we had lost hope that the grassland would recover this season. But nature has surprised us once again! 

On a recent drive with Heather, we were amazed at how big the Hypoxis hemerocallidea are this year, thriving like never before. The entire grassland is full of life, lush and vibrant again, proving how resilient nature can be when given the right conditions.

I recently learned a costly lesson while replacing the pipe in our borehole by the dam. What should have been a straightforward job turned into a major challenge when the pump got stuck. Thankfully, some incredibly kind people came to the rescue, bringing their equipment to help pull the cable and pipe out. 

Despite their best efforts, the pump could not be recovered. However, since this is one of our most valuable boreholes, abandoning it was not an option. Originally 130 meters deep, it now stands at 96 meters but it’s still going strong, producing an impressive 9,000 Liters per hour. Thankfully, this still ensures a steady, reliable water supply for the farm. 

Our efforts to restore the paddocks by planting more grass are paying off beautifully. With lush, healthy pastures now available, the cows are thriving spending their time relaxing and contentedly chewing instead of constantly roaming in search of food. As a result, they’re gaining weight and staying healthier…much to my mother’s delight. The cows have always had a special place in her heart. 

The Paradise Flycatchers are still flitting gracefully around the garden, their long tails trailing behind them as they dart between the branches. Watching them always makes my heart happy, but the real magic is waking up to their beautiful calls each morning—such a peaceful and uplifting way to start the day. Sadly, they will be leaving soon to migrate North, making these last sightings even more special. 

The garden has been especially lively, with the Hornbills making their presence known with their echoing calls. 

Adding to the symphony, the Brown Hooded Kingfisher has also been very vocal, its sharp, distinctive calls ringing through the trees. It’s incredible to be surrounded by so much birdlife, a daily reminder of how special this place truly is.

I am so excited that our only mango tree is full of fruit this year! To protect the harvest, we had to cover the tree with nets, otherwise the birds would feast on every last mango before we got the chance to enjoy them. We can’t wait to finally taste them … hopefully it’s going to be worth the wait! 

Jeff captured a great shot of this cute little spider nestled among the Scabiosa flowers. We couldn’t identify it, but I wanted to share the picture with you anyway.

Dixie has grown into a beautiful, loving dog who is adored by everyone on the farm. She’s always escaping from my mother’s house - we cannot figure out how she gets out as we always find her trotting around with a happy wag around the farm, soaking up all the attention she can get.

Taking Abby out for a run in the morning before I start work in the office is always a breathtaking experience. The air is crisp, and the golden sunlight glowing through the clouds is pure magic. It fills my heart with gratitude and puts a song in my soul. Moments like these remind me how lucky I am to call this place home.

How stunning is this sunset that I captured the other day, just as one of our customers walked in front of me, taking in the serene surroundings. It was one of those perfect, peaceful moments that make life on this farm so special. 

Hope to see you soon.

Sincerely

Linda