Dust off your gardening gloves and get ready to celebrate! Tomorrow marks the ninth year Garden Day is celebrated in South Africa – a day dedicated to appreciating the beauty and joy that gardens and green spaces bring to our lives.

Whether you’re an experienced gardener or simply someone who enjoys the outdoors, there’s a way for everyone to take part. From a lavish lawn lunch to a relaxed tea party with friends under your favourite tree, you can celebrate any way you like. Don’t forget to embrace the spirit of the day by wearing a flower crown, the official symbol of Garden Day.

Stories from Garden Day friends

Garden Day is about more than a celebration; it’s a chance to connect with nature and build community. Dr Anesu Mbizvo, one of Garden Day’s ambassadors, cherishes her childhood memories of exploring the outdoors and now finds peace in her garden. She plans to celebrate with a harvest table and a quiet lunch with her grandmother.

For another ambassador, Corli Leonard, also known as Veldmeisie, the day is about expressing gratitude for nature. She’ll be spending it with close friends, making flower crowns using a mix of plants, fruits, and vegetables. “A reminder to use what we have around us – and don’t forget to play!”

Gardens build community

Beyond their beauty, gardens help bring communities together. Studies show that shared community gardens can boost local pride and strengthen relationships among neighbours. Agri-entrepreneur and Garden Day ambassador Ncumisa Mkabile is hosting a community tea party on her farm, highlighting her dedication to growing not just crops but a sense of unity.

Codi Marais, the founder of Grow a Garden, is continuing his grandmother’s legacy by promoting sustainable living and food security in vulnerable communities. He’ll be celebrating by engaging in outreach efforts in Cape Town, helping to provide education and skills to those who need them most.

Join the celebrations

There’s no right or wrong way to join in on Garden Day. Whether you have a picnic under a tree, relax with a book in your favourite garden spot, or organise a family game night outdoors, the important thing is to enjoy the day.

10  ways to celebrate:

1. Invite the neighbours for a garden picnic party.
2. Have tea under a tree.
3. Convert your garden into an open-air cinema. Set up a projector and a screen against a blank wall or a white sheet.
4. Have lunch in the veggie garden.
5. Throw a tea party with your besties.
6. Serve cake at your closest community garden.
7. Braai on the lawn.
8. Share platters on the patio.
9. Party with your house plants.
10. Host the Garden Day Olympics. Turn your garden into a playful arena for a day of friendly competition and outdoor fun with the kids.

Join the movement

Visit www.gardenday.co.za for a toolkit filled with resources to help you plan your celebration. You’ll find posters, invitations, and even flower crown-making guides. Share your Garden Day experience on social media using #GardenDaySA or send pictures via WhatsApp to 074 288 1487. Follow @GardenDaySA on social media for more updates and special events.

 

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