Grade 8 to 10 learners at Swelihle High School in the Umlazi township on the KwaZulu-Natal East Coast celebrated their new water-wise garden and learning about indigenous plants.
The Grade 8 to 10 learners from Swelihle High School had a fantastic day when they learned all about planting water-wise gardens. The group got to learn all about the benefits of indigenous plants.
Indigenous plants are sustainable, they use minimal water and are fauna-friendly. They thrive in environments without the use of artificial fertilizers. Using indigenous plant species to maintain or rehabilitate previously degraded areas is a great way to protect local biodiversity and it creates a habitat for local wildlife.
Water shortages and increasing droughts play a massive role in the lifespan of gardens around South Africa. Ensuring that gardens are water-wise and filled with local plant life is a great way to have your gardens survive dry seasons.
“Through the water-wise garden project, learners at Swelihle High School are developing an understanding that planting gardens are not just about greening and adding value to the school grounds. Rather, by selecting the right plants they are having a positive impact on the environment around them. Learners are becoming more eco-conscious and active change agents too” – Nomfundo Ndlovu, WESSA Schools Programme Project Manager
The school is part of the Nampak funded Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA) Eco-Schools that are creating eco-friendly schools and healthier living spaces in their local community.
This is a fantastic day for the school as they celebrate the hard work put into planting the garden and the knowledge gained from the experience.
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