Respect the Spekboom!

July 31st, 2017

Portulacaria afra, commonly known as spekboom, is a drought-resistant, indigenous succulent native to our country. Although mainly an inhabitant of the Little Karoo and Eastern Cape, it also grows in dry river valleys in the east and up to the Limpopo, and on the slopes of the Soutpansberg.

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Forage in your Backyard – Weeds to Eat

July 6th, 2017

The nights are cooling with the approach of autumn. Almost unnoticed, the surings open up their umbrella leaves, expecting the annual rain to fall eventually.

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How do you like them apples?

May 9th, 2017

Winter Pearmain, a delicious apple variety, is an ancient fruit grown here in our garden under the watchful eye of Oom Anton Roux. For many years he ran his own nursery, where he propagated and grew varieties of old-fashioned gems.

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Bugs: The good, the bad & the ugly

April 11th, 2017


Some bugs are good for our gardens, some bad, says resident bug expert Arné Stander.



Some six-legged creatures are vital when ...

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Nature’s Apothecary – The Healing Garden

March 22nd, 2017

New to our garden here at Babylonstoren is the medicinal planting that includes species said or proven to cure an array of ailments. Some have been chosen for their beauty, others for historical interest, aroma or remedial qualities.

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Adam & Eve of Figs

February 17th, 2017

Since ancient times, figs have been one of the most desirable summer fruits. They are easy to pick, easy to peel and best eaten fresh under the tree.

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Bobaas Bonsai – Penjing Display in the Puff Adder

January 16th, 2017

Penjing? In short you may call it Chinese bonsai, but it is so much more! Bonsai started 3 000 years ago in China and not – like many people think – in Japan.

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All about that base

December 22nd, 2016

The Puff Adder – a 70-metre wooden structure that slithers through oaks and blue gum trees next to the stream – now plays host to a selection of very rare caudex succulents. Master Botanist Ernst van Jaarsveld explains that caudiciform plants are characterised by a swollen stem base.

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10 Tips for Gardening Water Smart this Summer

November 16th, 2016

The recent water crisis in our country demands immediate action from all gardeners. What can we do to reduce our water consumption and what is the best plan to achieve this in the long and short term?

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Hurray for the first national Garden Day!

October 4th, 2016

Most of the year we plant, water, weed and mulch – work, in other words. Garden Day is the day to reap the rewards of our labour. Toss down that spade, invite family and friends around, kick back and appreciate the varied reasons why making a garden is so rewarding!

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