Random Harvest Newsletter Archive

Dear Indigenous Enthusiast,

The start of 2025 has been so busy and full of excitement.  So much so that I was unable to write the February Newsletter. Ronald and Jeffrey stepped in and kindly offered to do this for me, and I think they’ve done an amazing job. I am so lucky to have the staff that I do. A big thank you to both of them, and I look forward to reconnecting with you in the March Newsletter. I hope you enjoy this one as much as I did.

The rain has been wonderful, and you can almost sense the plants thriving and feeling happy. The dam is also eventually brimming with water – what a relief to see this sign of the season's abundance. With the skies so overcast and cloudy almost every day now, it feels like we are now living overseas.

IN THE NURSERY

The recent rains have brought much-needed life to the farm, but they’ve also kept us incredibly busy. The weeds and grass seemed to shoot up almost overnight, thriving in the moisture. 

We’ve been hard at work weeding and cutting grass to keep everything under control and ensure the plants have room to grow. It’s been a challenge, but the lush greenery and vibrant growth make it all worthwhile.

After completing the foundation for our new tank stand on the highest point of the farm, we began installing the pipeline.  We are confident that the elevated position will boost water pressure and reduce the need for pumping during irrigation…here’s holding thumbs!  Although the pipe installation has been a significant and challenging task, we are now almost finished. With only the tank left to install, we are excited to see our efforts come together, creating a more energy-efficient watering system to support the farm’s needs. 

FOOD PARCELS

We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who generously donated towards our food parcel project, making it possible for us to distribute over 200 food parcels this past month. This has brought relief to many families in need, and we couldn’t have done it without your kindness and support. As we are in the new school year, we are reaching out once again for your help. 

Many children in the informal settlements lack proper school uniforms, shoes, and stationery, making the start of their new school year difficult. Any contribution in good condition, whether it’s school supplies, uniforms, or shoes will make a tremendous difference in their lives. With your help, these children’s future becomes a lot brighter. Donations may be dropped off at our office. Thank you for your continued generosity. 

Alternately our banking details are: 

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

BIRD WALKS

The European honey buzzard has returned to the farm and seems to be spending a lot of time near the beehives. It appears the buzzard has discovered an easy feast, skillfully feeding on the larvae and combs. Jeff managed to capture a photo of him. We find it amazing how wildlife adapts and cleverly utilizes the resources in its surroundings. Hopefully the Honey Buzzard will be spotted on the next bird walks. Details as follows:

Date:     8th of February with Lance Robinson
Time:     06h30 for 07h00 

Date:     8th of March with Chris Hines 
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 

Lappies Labuschagne, dragonfly enthusiast, will share his passion and love for the over 162 species of these unique creatures with us. Explaining their role as indicators of ecosystem health, their ecology and how they benefit humans.

Date:  Wednesday 5th February at 10h30
Topic: Talk on Dragonflies

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.

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 

Grassland Walk

Due to popular demand and the recovery of the grassland, we’re excited to host another Grassland Walk with Jeffrey! Don’t miss this chance to explore the revitalized landscape and learn from Jeffrey’s expertise.

Date:  Saturday 15th of February at 10h30
Cost: R25.00 per person towards our food parcel drive 
Booking is essential - please contact Ronald on [email protected] or 066 587 3077

HOLISTIC WELLNESS RETREATS & WORKSHOPS

Jana will host different wellness retreats and workshops on the farm every weekend, including the Retreat into Nature Mini Wellness Experiences which were well-received during December and January. 

Book your spot for the Reboot & Rejuvenate Weekend Wellness Retreat from 14th – 16th February – the theme is “Embracing Self-Love – Creating Fulfilling Relationships.”

Comprehensive wellness programs for employees play an essential role in the workplace.  If you want to support your employees’ well-being while boosting workplace productivity, contact Jana to discuss her Wellness@Work corporate lifestyle wellness retreats. These workshops are facilitated in the tranquil surroundings of Random Harvest, the perfect setting for inspiring and energizing your employees. 

Read Jana’s Google Reviews to discover what her clients and participants say about her services.  Contact her directly at [email protected] or 076 329 8692 for more information about wellness retreats or corporate programs.

PRACTICAL GARDENER TRAINING  – February 14th

Start the year off right by giving your gardener the gift of growth and inspiration! 

Equip them with the knowledge and skills to nurture your garden to its fullest potential. 

This full-day workshop is perfect for gardeners in residential, corporate, hospitality, and school settings. Combining expert guidance with hands-on learning, participants will gain essential insights and practical tools to enhance their abilities and recognize the vital role they play in creating and maintaining beautiful, functional spaces.

What’s Included:
• Comprehensive course materials
• A beautifully crafted certificate of attendance
• Tea/coffee on arrival, a delicious breakfast, and a hearty cooked lunch
• This engaging and motivational workshop promises to be a rewarding experience for the dedicated men and women who bring life to our gardens.

Register now to empower your gardener with the tools to thrive all year long.

WhatsApp Lindsay on 0824499237 or email [email protected] to book your gardeners’ place

Celebrating 30 years of inspiring gardeners worldwide!

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

This season, our grapevine has produced an impressive harvest, and we’re excited to soon offer our famous homemade grape cordial in the tea garden. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the fruits of the season while relaxing in a beautiful setting. 

Our tea garden offers a peaceful escape, whether you’re looking to unwind with a delicious meal, spend quality time with family and friends, or simply enjoy a moment to yourself. With its serene atmosphere and delightful offerings, it’s the ideal place to slow down, take in the surroundings, and treat yourself to a special freshly prepared meal.

COTTAGES

February is the month of love, and what better way to show yourself some self-love than by booking a relaxing stay at our country cottages? Escape the everyday and treat yourself to the peace and tranquility you deserve.

Surrounded by nature, our cottages provide the perfect setting for unwinding, recharging, and enjoying a little time just for you. Plus, it’s cheaper when you book directly with us or through our website. This February, give yourself the gift of relaxation and make unforgettable memories in the heart of the countryside. 

To make this idea even more irresistible, for the month of February, we are offering an all-inclusive midweek special of R950.00 per night per person for the room, a bird walk or tour of the farm with Jeffrey or Ronald and a delicious breakfast. 

Booking is essential. Please contact Ronald on 066 587 3077 or email [email protected] for more information or to make a booking.

RETAIL

We’ve been busy revamping the beds outside the retail area. This time, we’ve used a beautiful mix of Zantedeschia hybrid in various colours and Stipa dregeana, a delicate looking indigenous grass. These plants are always a winning combination, offering both stunning visuals and texture. The vibrant Arum Lily with the softness of the grass creates a perfect contrast, making the space even more inviting and visually appealing. 

We’ve moved the bird feeder tree back to its usual spot, and it’s amazing how quickly the birds adapted. Despite the brief change in location, they didn’t miss a beat! They were just as eager to feed from the new tree, and as soon as we hung the feeders, they were right back, enjoying their meals as if nothing had changed. 

We’re refreshing our pollinator garden and adding more grasses, which are thriving in their growing season. These grasses are looking wonderful and will be placed next to the display for easy access, so that customers don’t have to search for them. We hope this revamp inspires you to create your own little grassland haven in your garden at home, supporting local pollinators while adding beauty to your outdoor space.

Our water plant section looks absolutely fantastic after the recent waterproofing work, and we couldn’t be happier with the results. A big thank you to Robert Brooker and his team at Water Brothers, who did an outstanding job ensuring everything was completed with care and precision. Their expertise has truly transformed the area, making it not only functional but also a standout feature we’re proud to showcase. 

Wholesale

With the sun out shining again we would like to remind our wholesale customers that we are always available to help make suggestions for plant choices and with basic layout ideas. 

Our huge range of available plants makes designing an indigenous garden a creative and sustainable project and we will gladly assist where possible.  We are also able to deliver nationwide for those tackling installations in other provinces or not based in Gauteng. Feel free to reach out to us with any questions or for personalized recommendations, we’re here to help every step of the way.

SHOP

Our little gift shop is a true treasure trove for nature enthusiasts and those who simply appreciate the beauty and wonder of the natural world. We proudly offer a carefully curated selection of books on natural history, covering a wide range of fascinating topics. From the intricate biodiversity of ecosystems and the mesmerizing world of birdlife to the unique characteristics of indigenous plants and the rich tapestry of wildlife, there’s something here to ignite the curiosity and passion of every visitor.

Whether you’re a seasoned naturalist with a deep love for environmental exploration or someone just beginning your journey of discovery, these books provide a wealth of knowledge, insight, and inspiration. They are more than just informative—they invite readers to see the world through a fresh perspective and develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for the environment around us.

These books also make wonderful gifts for friends and family who share your love for nature, or they can serve as personal keepsakes, enriching your own library with resources to fuel your curiosity and deepen your connection with the wonders of the natural world. 

Making the Most of Indigenous Trees R540.00
People’s Plants R585.00
Guides to the Aloes of South Africa R440.00
Creative Gardening With Indigenous Plants R465.00
Essential Scorpion Sting First Response R350.00
Indigenous Healing Plants R565.00
Creative Indigenous Garden Design R200
Indigenous Plants for Small Gardens R175.00
Creating Biodiversity Gardens R175.00
The Cape Orchids R1995.00

PLANTS LOOKING GOOD

Elionurus muticus - Wire Grass (E)
Very hardy, upright growing grass with bright green, dense tufts of leaves at the base of the plant.  The long white seed heads curl gracefully backwards at the tips of long stems from Sept. to May. In autumn the leaves turn a beautiful coppery brown. This widespread grass is ornamental and easy to manage in the garden.  Birds collect the seed heads for nesting material.  Two essential oils are distilled from this grass.  Plant in pure stands or as part of a grassland garden. It is also useful as a soil stabilizer. As with all grasses it should be cut back once a year and raked to remove the thatch.  Pant in full sun in well-drained soil.  Size: 30 to 90cm 

Ocimum obovatum (Was Becium obovatum) - Cat’s Whiskers (E)
A hardy, deciduous, herbaceous groundcover with a perennial, woody rootstock, from which annual stems arise. Bright-green leaves provide a good colour and textural contrast in the grassland garden. From Sept. to Feb. heads of white to pale mauve flowers are borne. These attract many small pollinating insects. This is the host plant for a number of Blue (Lepidochrysops) butterfly species, which can often be seen fluttering around the plants.  Grows best in well drained, loamy soil, in a sunny position. Do not over water in winter. Flowers best in full sun.   Size: up to 30cm

Andropogon appendiculatus - Vlei bluestem (E)
Very hardy clump-forming grass with quite a broad leaf blade.  There are always some red leaves but in autumn and winter there are bright red leaves in the clump.  It bears rust-brown to almost purple flowers in summer. Use as an element of a well-watered grassland garden or in a mixed border as it is not very aggressive.  This is a grass that looks good all year round but should still be pruned back at the end of winter to allow for fresh new growth.  Plant in sun or semi-shade and water regularly.  Size: Up to 1.3m 

Ficus abutilifolia - Large-leaved Rock Fig (E)
Hardy, deciduous, small to medium sized fig tree that has beautiful, large, heart-shaped leaves. The pale green figs with raised white dots, attract birds to the garden. The figs are actually inverted flowers. They are borne in the axils of the leaves from September to March. It is one of the rock splitter figs and has white stems and roots that flatten themselves out along rocks. It likes a north facing position and should be kept out of the cold wind. Makes a wonderful container plant for both indoors and outdoors. Do not plant figs near walls, pools, pipes or paving as they have an aggressive root system. Creates an interesting focal point in the garden. Size 2 to 10m

Gunnera perpensa - River Pumpkin (E)
Very hardy, deciduous marsh plant, with large tuberous roots that have a nitrogen fixing, symbiotic relationship with blue-green algae.  It has beautiful big, round, bluish-green leaves that are carried on long stems and arise from a central point on the roots.  The tiny brown flowers are densely packed in gracefully drooping spikes from Sept. to Feb.  Used extensively for Muthi (traditional medicine). It only grows in wetlands in shallow water, at the edge of pools and streams and marshy areas.  An attractive foliage plant for damp places and around water features.  Plant in sun or semi-shade in damp to moist soil. Size: up to 1m

Jamesbrittenia aurantiaca – Cape Saffron (E) 
A hardy, fast-growing, evergreen perennial that adds a vibrant burst of colour to any garden. Known for its striking orange, pink, red or brownish flowers with contrasting darker centres, it blooms profusely throughout the warmer months, creating an eye-catching display against its fine, green foliage. This versatile plant is highly attractive to pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, and plays a role in supporting garden biodiversity. Its drought-tolerant nature makes it a great choice for water-wise gardens and low-maintenance landscapes. Ideal for use as a groundcover, in rockeries, as edging, or cascading over retaining walls, It also thrives in pots, hanging baskets, or window boxes, adding beauty to patios and balconies. It performs best in well-drained soil with full sun to partial shade. Size: 20 to 30 cm

PLANTS ON SPECIAL – LESS 15%

Bauhinia tomentosa - Yellow Bauhinia (E)
Hardy, deciduous, fast-growing, drought resistant, scandent shrub with deeply-lobed leaves, resembling butterfly wings.  It flowers throughout summer, bearing masses of lemon-yellow, bell-like flowers with a purple blotch at the base of one petal. It is the host plant to the Orange Barred Playboy butterfly, the larvae of which feed on the seeds. It attracts pollinating insects, which in turn draw insectivorous birds.  The leaves and flowers are extensively used by traditional healers. It looks good planted in a mixed shrubbery or as an informal hedge or in a container.  Plant in full sun or partial shade. Size: 2 to 4m  

Cyperus prolifer - Miniature Papyrus (E)  
Hardy, evergreen, small sedge.  Each green stem is topped by a cluster of grass-like flower spikelets.  These very decorative stems can be used in flower arrangements.  An attractive little plant that is ideal for planting in a small pond or wet area.  Helps to filter and keep water clean and healthy.  Will gradually colonise a wet area through the repeated emergence of adventitious shoots.  Plant in sun or semi-shade.  Size: 30 to 40cm  

Gomphostigma virgatum - River Stars (E) 
This is an extremely hardy, evergreen, water-loving, graceful perennial or shrub with small, elongated, attractive grey leaves.  It blooms profusely almost all year round with spikes of white flowers.  These attract small pollinating insects to the garden. This shrub grows well in running not stagnant water and in a normally irrigated garden. I have seen this pretty, delicate-looking plant anchored between rocks in a fast-flowing stream in the Free State – shows how tough it is.  Plant close together in groups for the best effect. Plant in full sun or semi-shade and prune to keep it neat. Size: 1m

Setaria sphacelata var. sericea - Golden Bristle Grass (E)
Hardy, evergreen, beautiful, neatly tufted grass.  It bears dense, golden inflorescences of hairy flowers from Oct. to May that look like miniature bulrushes.  Although this is a tall grass, it is neat and narrow and does not go wild.  It attracts birds to the garden and is the host plant of various butterfly species.  It makes a lovely form plant and can be planted in a grassland garden, as a backdrop to a colourful bed or mass-planted for a beautiful effect.   As with most grasses, it should be cut back once a year and the thatch removed.   It grows in sun or semi-shade and needs regular watering. Size: 70cm to 1.2m

Sclerochiton odoratissimus - White Lips (E)
Hardy, evergreen, small- to medium-sized shrub with attractive, glossy, small, dark-green leaves.  In late summer and autumn, it bears masses of wonderfully fragrant, pretty white flowers that are streaked with red or purple lines.  The flowers are like little hands facing the sun.  It is a sight to behold when in flower, especially with all the pollinating insects that visit the flowers.  Trim it into an attractive formal hedge, use in a mixed shrubbery or plant in a container. It is fairly drought-tolerant but can also be planted in damp, sunny or semi-shade spots in the garden. 
Size: .75 to 1.5m 

Harpephyllum caffrum - Wild Plum (E)
This fairly hardy, evergreen, large tree has smooth, shiny bark that becomes cracked with age.  It has attractive, dark foliage with the odd red leaf in the crown.  The sickle-shaped leaves, arranged in a spiral around the stem, are another beautiful feature of this tree, particularly when looking up into the crown from underneath.  The small yellowish-green flowers are borne in terminal sprays from Oct. to Feb. Male and female flowers are on separate trees, therefore only female plants bear fruit.  Fleshy red berries follow the flowers and attract many fruit-eating birds to the garden.  The fruits and the kernels are edible, and a delicious jelly can be made from the pulp. The bark is used for medicinal purposes and the wood used for furniture.  This is a beautifully shaped tree for gardens and makes a wonderful street and parking area tree. Protect from frost when young but once established can take quite cold conditions. Plant in sun, semi-shade or light shade.  
Size: 10 to 20m    

GARDENING TIP

Creating a mini grassland haven at home is a wonderful way to bring the beauty and biodiversity of nature into your garden while contributing to the survival of local wildlife. As pressure for space in urban areas gets ever stronger, so areas of natural habitat get smaller and smaller. Gauteng, where we are situated, was once predominantly grasslands that stretched for kilometers.

Now, apart from a few nature reserves and conservancies, our gardens provide the only hope of potential as habitat for many species of birds, insects, spiders, lizards and other creatures that visit or live in grasslands. In fact, it is amazing how many creatures will take up residence even in the tiniest natural space provided for their use. 

Plant your grasses and wildflowers in well-drained soil, ideally in a sunny spot, and group them in natural clusters to mimic the random patterns found in grasslands. The more one copies the tapestry of plant species in a healthy, thriving grassland, the healthier your own grassland will be. 

Indigenous veld grasses should be cut once a year only, and avoid fertilizing the soil, as most indigenous grassland plants thrive in low-nutrient conditions and require minimal maintenance. You can also add a few rocks, logs, or even a small, natural-looking water feature to enhance the habitat and provide shelter for small creatures like insects, lizards, and birds.

Start by selecting indigenous grasses that thrive in your area. Some excellent options, particularly for a Highveld garden, include Themeda triandra (Red Grass), Andropogon eucomis (Snowflake Grass), Eragrostis capensis (Small Heart Seed Grass), Pogonarthria squarrosa (Herringbone Grass), Melinis nerviglumis (Bristle-leaved Red Top), and Harpochloa falx (Caterpillar Grass). These grasses not only look stunning but also create a natural, flowing aesthetic that mimics the wild grasslands.

To add vibrant color and attract a greater diversity of pollinators, incorporate indigenous grassland wildflowers like Hypoxis species (African Potato), Bulbine abyssinica (Bushy Bulbine), Lobelia anceps (Swamp Lobelia), Watsonia angusta (River Watsonia), and Ocimum obovatum (Cat’s Whiskers) to name but a few. 

These plants offer valuable pollen and nectar for birds and insects, and will bloom beautifully, creating a tapestry of colors and textures throughout the seasons. With time, your mini grassland will become a thriving, self-sustaining ecosystem that not only adds beauty to your space but also supports biodiversity and offers a tranquil, natural retreat right at home.

ON THE FARM

Since the rains, the dam has come alive with vibrant activity, turning into a sanctuary for an array of beautiful birdlife. 

The yellow-billed ducks and white-faced ducks have made the island their home, and we can’t help but hope they are nesting and breeding there, as they are now a constant presence. 

Adding to the scene, the red bishops are in full display, their fiery orange and red breeding colours standing out brilliantly against the green reeds. Their vibrant plumage seems to glow in the sunlight as they hop from reed to reed, with the males puffing out their chests and singing melodic songs to attract mates.

Along the water’s edge, the wattled lapwings spend their days in growing numbers, their sharp calls and striking markings making them impossible to miss. 

Above it all, the swallows are now regular visitors, their swift, elegant movements weaving life and energy into the sky. Every corner of the dam reflects a sense of renewal, abundance, and the quiet joy of nature thriving. 

 It wouldn’t be a Random Harvest newsletter without a mention of the grassland, which continues to be a treasure trove of life and beauty. The guinea fowls are ever-present, wandering gracefully through the grassland, and we recently spotted one with a more greyish hue—an absolutely stunning sight. 

The wildflowers are still putting on a show, with the delicate Hypoxis blooms and the bright yellow Bulbine flowers lighting up the landscape. 

Ronald managed to get a picture of these tiny black grasshoppers clustered together a rare and fascinating sight . 

Alongside this Jeff also photographed some intriguing tiny caterpillars that had formed clusters on the grass. The grassland remains a place of quiet wonder, brimming with surprises at every turn. 

This year, the Grewia occidentalis were a bit late to flower, but after the rains, they made up for it with thousands of stunning blooms, creating a spectacular display. This hardy shrub is a must-have for any garden, attracting a variety of pollinators and birds with its nectar-rich flowers. 

Similarly, the Acacia karroo has also come to life after the rains, its branches covered in yellow flowers, transforming the farm into a breathtaking scene. I have to add that both are perfect choices to add beauty and life to your garden. 

With all the rain we've been having lately, the fungi have been flourishing, creating a vibrant and fascinating display of nature's beauty. 

Jeff took the opportunity to explore and captured these stunning photographs of a variety of mushrooms, each showcasing their unique shapes, colours, and textures. 

Unfortunately, they are so difficult to identify that I haven’t had much luck, but we thought you would enjoy the pictures anyway. 

We hope this gives you more reasons to stop by the farm, enjoy a cup of coffee, and pick up your favourite plants to bring even more beauty to your garden. Wishing you a wonderful February filled with growth, inspiration, and the beauty of nature. May your gardens thrive, your days be productive, and your moments outdoors bring peace and joy.

Sincerely

Ronald & Jeffrey