A weekend of succulents at the Botanical Garden

It is never too late to grow and nurture a love of plants and gardening.

To showcase the power and potential of indigenous and water-wise plants, The Johannesburg Succulent Society (JSS) will be hosting a Spring Show at Walter Sisulu Botanical Garden, October 9 and 10. This is the JSS’ first Spring Show since 2019 and will feature tables and stands manned by well-known and respected gardeners, collectors, and growers.

The two-day succulent extravaganza will be the largest of its kind on the West Rand, proudly displaying the most unusual succulents, as well as the everyday varieties. “Food stalls and refreshments will be available plus a little activity to educate, entertain and inspire the kiddies. There will also be a wide variety of plants for sale for those who are interested in taking home a treasured water-wise plant or two,” said Caryl Stutchbury, JSS committee member.

The Society aims to promote knowledge, cultivation and propagation of succulent plants, and to contribute towards the protection and conservation of all indigenous plants in their habitats. Southern Africa is one of the most succulent-rich areas in the world, with half of the world’s approximately 10 000 succulent species originating here. “Worldwide there is a tremendous active interest in the succulents of the region,” stated Caryl.

Succulents may be described as plants that are adapted to store water in their leaves, branches, or stem bases to be able to survive long periods without water. Succulents promote water-wise gardening, and the ability to grow in pots in small gardens, and even on a balcony. Gardening in general is a wonderful stress reliever, particularly during lockdown or when work is tense, and one is in need of an outlet to de-stress.

“One of the biggest things we are trying to do, is to expand the knowledge and share a passion. In the current environment, water resources are short, and it makes sense to popularise indigenous and succulent plants. Succulents are a wonderful plant for kids to get involved with as they are easy, rewarding and educational. Young adults who are likely in small accommodations, don’t have to have green fingers to keep a couple of these plants alive on their windowsills,” she elaborated.

A highlight of the weekend will be a judged show of succulents where the audience can feast their eyes on award-winning plants and interact with fellow water-wise plant enthusiasts. For the first time, the show will also feature small succulent gardens set up by commercial growers, and a landscaping class to provide living examples to visitors of how to garden with succulents and indigenous plants.

Normal entrance fees to the Walter Sisulu Botanical Garden will apply but there is no charge to enter the JSS Succulent Fest. Doors open at 9:00 on both Saturday and Sunday, and will close at 16:00. For more info one can email Jhbss.info@gmail.com, visit joburgsucculentsociety.com or their Facebook page joburgsucculentsociety.