FAMILY-RUN gardening business Grovida recently celebrated an impressive 45 years in business, marking nearly half a century of growth, innovation, and deep community roots.

For owner Vincent Laurenco, the company’s longevity, he says, is built on dedication, teamwork, and an unwavering commitment to quality.

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“We are a family business and the staff know they are part of the team. Out of a workforce of 28 staff we have five staff members that have over 30 years service,” he said.

Grovida was founded by Laurenco’s father and continues to thrive as a proud second-generation family business. That legacy, he explained, has shaped not only how Grovida operates but also how it connects with the community.

“Over the years, we have built trust with our clients, so they keep coming back. Because of our long standing with schools and the local community, we like to get involved.”

Ten years ago, Grovida made the move from Durban South to Durban North — a change that Laurenco described as both necessary and rewarding.

“Sadly we needed to move from the south of Durban, having been in the same premises for 35 years as the area was becoming more industrial. The Durban North transition 10 years ago was a fairly easy transition.

“Moving to Durban North we got the support from most schools, bowling clubs and sports fields. With their support it made it easy for us to give back to the local community.”

That spirit of giving back has become part of Grovida’s DNA. From revamping local police stations to supporting schools and the Umgeni Bird Park, the business continues to invest in the beauty and well-being of the neighbourhood.

Grovida’s community projects often start with grassroots partnerships. Laurenco fondly recalls one of their first collaborations.

“The very first project that Grovida got involved with at the infant stage was with Enviro Fixers. The amazing work that they do is remarkable — replacing alien invasive plants with indigenous plants. Since then we have been involved with both police stations in the community — Greenwood Park with Grace Church and Durban North Police Station in conjunction with Northwood School. We did a memorial garden for Rosehill Primary School. I then had my neighbours from the Umgeni Bird Park call me in asking me to beautify the two flower beds as you come in.”

Despite challenges in the economy, Laurenco says community support has helped Grovida stay strong and even discover new opportunities.

“Sadly in today’s tough economic times, everyone’s budget has been cut when it comes to spending on gardens. This has a ripple effect on us. Ironically Covid did us well. During lockdown many people became aware of the importance of family and ‘me time’. It was during this time that many people realised that gardening was not a luxury anymore but rather a necessity — for their well-being and the family. So many people started their own vegetable gardens. I am all for growing your own vegetables. Hopefully more and more people will begin to grow their own vegetables.”

Laurenco now hopes to continue bringing new ideas to local gardeners while nurturing the next generation’s love for the outdoors.

“When it comes to gardening, SA in general tends to lag behind first world countries when it comes to product offering and new ideas. I have seen this in my international travels and slowly I would like to bring them here and be the first.”

When it comes to community, his goals are just as down-to-earth.

“We will continue to give back, perhaps give garden talks to junior schools to get the young children into the garden and off the devices.”

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