Cape Peninsula Coastal Gardening
A book by Tara Dalton
Tara has written the book Cape Peninsula Coastal Gardening in collaboration with horticulturalist, Gael Gray and botanist Dr Lee Jones who expanded the plant list for the Klein Slangkop Eco Estate and included plants that are found in the greater Kommetjie area, as well as in other parts of the coast on the Cape Peninsula. Photographs in the book are taken by Tara, Katrien Heere and botanist, Dr Tony Rebelo.
What is Cape Peninsula Coastal Gardening all about?
Mission
To preserve and celebrate the extraordinary flora of the Cape Peninsula while inspiring a new movement in ecological gardening.
The Need
The Cape Floristic Region, one of the most biodiverse floristic regions on earth, is under severe threat from urban and agricultural development. Habitats are shrinking, and many species face extinction. At the same time, there is growing public interest in rewilding and sustainable gardening. In the UK, the Knepp Rewilding Project transformed public attitudes towards ecological restoration; South Africa has the same opportunity, but no clear voice leading the way. This book seeks to bridge that gap by linking conservation with everyday gardening practices.
Click any photo to enlarge
Photography credit: Katrien Heere
Purpose of the Book
Inspire people to appreciate and protect their local flora.Encourage creation of wild areas in gardens using indigenous plants and proven rewilding techniques.Provide a clear, visual guide to identify and grow local species.Raise funds for a feasibility study into partnerships with nurseries and institutions (such as the Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden) to expand the availability of indigenous plants for the retail market.
The Hyperlocal Flora Foundation
To give this project structure and longevity, we have just registered the not-for-profit Hyperlocal Flora Foundation with the Department of Social Development.
Once registered, this will be dedicated to:
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Promoting awareness of hyperlocal flora and its conservation value.
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Educating the public through books, talks, and demonstration gardens.
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Encouraging sustainable horticultural practices.
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Collaborating with experts, nurseries, and conservation groups to improve propagation of local genetic plant material grown for retail markets.
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Raising funds for research, feasibility studies, and community initiatives.