Plot gardens wow once more

Slowly traversing bumpy roads, city slickers once again ditched the roads most travelled to enjoy a day out exploring the jewels of Marister, on November 23 and 24.

With gates adorned with fabric garlands, the owners of seven plots welcomed visitors to the second annual Benoni North Open Gardens held in aid of HELM, a community-driven organisation operating throughout the city’s plot communities.

The ‘new kids on the block’ Linda and Steven Otto’s garden is an oasis built to create new memories.

“Eighteen months ago, we bid farewell to the hustle and bustle of city living by moving our family and business to Marister,” said Linda.

“My husband grew up on a plot and fostered a lifelong dream of returning to this quieter way of living.

“Since making the move, we have not looked back. Plot living comes with its unique challenges but those far outweigh that of being confined to the perimeters of suburban homes.”

Bianca Preston, from Germiston, drew inspiration for the garden tour to spruce up her garden.With her tabby cat sprawled out under one of the lush shrubs, Linda said her most cherished memory in her new home is having the honour of hosting her son’s wedding in the garden, which is awash with colour.

Marvelling at the Ottos’ little paradise, Bianca Preston, of Germiston, said she was stealing gardening tips with a glance.

“I am a keen gardener who sometimes battles with new ideas, so this garden tour will get the creative juice flowing,” she said.

Stopping at Tiptol Golf and Conference Venue, ticket holders could browse some of the homemade delights Marister residents had on offer.

Hoërskool Hans Moore matric learner, Jayden Richards, captivated the visitors’ attention with the variety of plants he had on sale and his vast, green-thumbed knowledge.

“I grew up on a plot and fell in love with watching plants grow,” he said.

“I was diagnosed with dyslexia but found cultivating plants helped me focus. The colours, shapes and patterns of each plant are captivating and somehow stimulate my brain to perform better academically.

“I hope to use this knowledge to pursue a career in landscaping and interior design. I cannot begin to emphasise how beneficial plants are for mental wellness.”

As the tour drew to a close, an event organiser, Glynnis Wilson, said the community was delighted to have hosted another successful tour.

“Each year we learn and grow but it is heartening to see that we could host many gardening enthusiasts, from far and wide, on our small holdings,” she said.

“With the sale of tickets, the Marister residents can contribute to the invaluable work of HELM volunteers.”

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