AS a way to promote civic pride and encourage residents to beautify and keep their verges well maintained in a sustainable way, the Somerset Park Home Owners’ Association in partnership with eThekwini Municipality recently held only its second Verge Competition.

The winners were announced earlier this year and judges looked at three categories; freestanding homes, complexes, and most improved verge.

“The competition encourages homeowners to put a little extra effort and creativity into the appearance of verges. Aesthetically pleasing exteriors not only improve homes, but also beautify and help uplift communities,” explained Dr Suren Lutchminarayan, who heads the green committee and is the director of the Somerset Park Home Owners’ Association.

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“A number of different criteria are considered when judging the verges entered into the competition. The overall attractiveness of each verge is the starting point with the innovative use of plants and features. Some of the verges could be indigenous while others have special themes,” he said.

Dipak Vallabh, a resident on Ilchester Avenue won best freestanding home verge, and Somerset Gardens won the best verge for complexes.

Lyntin Padayachi, chair of the trustees at Somerset Gardens situated on Somerset Drive, explained why it was important to upkeep verges in the area.

“We were excited to have won the best verge for a second year running. The win last year motivated us to change things up this time around. It also uplifts the entrance to the complex. We also did the inner landscape beds within the complex itself which adds it to the beauty. A lot of effort has gone into the beautification of our verge thanks to our landscapers Peter and Marilyn. I must add that we’ve been doing this before the competition existed because we feel it is important to uplift the area.

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“We are proud of the win and we encourage other residents and complexes to get involved and take part. Apart from the competition being a motivation, beautifying your verge benefits the entire area, not just for complexes alone but also other homeowners,” he said.

His comments were echoed by Peter (James) Tavener and his wife Marilyn (Jesse), the owners of Jesse James Succulent & Landscape Design.

“All credit must go to the body corporate. Our relationship began with the complex many years ago. At the time, they wanted to improve their entrance and we shared our ideas and they gave us free range to do what we do best. Like Lyntin mentioned, we are very proud to work with the complex, they are the motivators behind beautifying their verge and have gone on to beautifying other beds within the complex. It is very encouraging to us because we as landscapers are given the ability to do the work we love doing. We also thank them for their continual belief in us,” he said.

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