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More Barrier Plants

By on February 6, 2012 in indigenous

In response to Niall’s post on Zulu Barbwire… mol-d I am reliant on natural vegetation as my only form of defense, the wire fences having been stolen many years back. The hedgerows are admittedly quite wide, 2 – 4 meters, but are filled with many thorny plants that provide us with impenetrable barriers. Here are [...]

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Zulu Barbwire

Zulu Barbwire

By on February 3, 2012 in indigenous

This excellent creeper has such deadly thorns that it has been colloquially named ‘Zulu Barbwire’. One plant at the base of a fence or hedge will quickly grow up and out, creating a near impenetrable barrier to would be thieves.  And with its delicate white flowers, its a much more attractive solution than barbwire or an electric [...]

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From unspoilt eco-tourism hub to dusty, mining town in 10 years? A perspective on mining in Mtunzini

By on January 12, 2012 in environment, indigenous, sustainability

HOW MINING WILL CHANGE MTUNZINI The tourism brochures boast about its ‘pristine coastline’ and ‘zig-zagging rivers and streams’ in a ‘clean and safe environment’. They also mention its commitment to the ‘preservation of its natural heritage’. But if mining giant Exxaro KZN Sands gets its way, all this could be lost for future generations who [...]

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WIN BIG!! Naked…

By on December 1, 2011 in environment, indigenous, sustainability

conservationists calendar from Iphithi Nature Reserve We are nearing the  festive season and to raise awareness of the Iphithi Nature Reserve in Gillits, the generous (and semi-nude) conservationists have given us three calendars to give away as prizes. If you would like to win one of them and get it posted to your door (in South Africa), [...]

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How do I bonsai a baobab?

By on November 25, 2011 in indigenous

I found a tiny thirty-odd year old Baobab in my Eastern Cape garden. It flowered and seeded and sadly I think it has died. However, the seed was viable and I now have a tray of baby baobabs. Seeing they grow poorly in this part of the country, I thought it would be best to [...]

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