SINCE the beginning of this year the Durban North Conservancy has embarked on a Verge Project as a way of creating green corridors throughout local neighbourhoods.

Part of the project is about beautifying verges.

These connecting pockets of biodiversity provide food and habitat for birds, butterflies and other small creatures.

Jane Troughton, the chairperson of the Conservancy, said she already worked with several residents and businesses to help transform their verges.

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According to Troughton, the project provides residents with a free landscape consultation and design. The conservancy can then source the plants at wholesale prices.

“Residents need to cover the cost of the plants and compost and the conservancy is asking for a minimum of 10% of the plant costs as a donation. This enables us to do our work in disadvantaged communities and common spaces. Homeowners or businesses simply reach out to us and we’ll be in touch,” she said.

Troughton added the conservancy were only focusing on verges.

“We want to concentrate our efforts where they are visible. I want to stress that we are not in the business of landscaping, but rather education, inspiration and habitat development. In addition to the landscape design and plant sourcing we work alongside the verge owner and gardener, teaching the about the plants, why they have been planted for their conditions, and very importantly, how to maintain the plants. Naturally the plants chosen are only indigenous and water-wise.”

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One of the residents involved in the conservancy’s project is David Asgeir-Nielsen.

His verge on Burleigh Cresent has been transformed through the project and is now earning the admiration of his neighbours.

“I moved into the area nine years ago and I’ve been involved in little projects the conservancy have been involved in, not to the extent of Jane and others. I have a love for gardening and I always want to promote the great work the conservancy are doing. Prior to my verge transformation, it was mostly grass but the new look gives me great pride. When people see me out watering or tending to the plants it inspires them to comment, or toot and give a thumbs up,” he said.

To find out more visit the Conservancy page.

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