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Episode 3: Gourmet garden

Abacus Gardens was privileged to be asked to design Dr Kwini’s kitchen garden. The decision was made to design a Gourmet Herb Garden, in that the area was directly outside his kitchen and the family loved cooking.

The design took cognisance of the definite east west axis and the long rectangular geometry of the space. A cheerful water cascade was positioned at each end with several archways leading towards the centre of the space where the main focal point was a richly decorated wrought iron gazebo, under which the family could enjoy meals at a Clarens sandstone table subtly decorated with colourful mosaics.

4 planter boxes were built 700mm off the ground so that picking herbs would be easily accessible. The area would be covered in stepping stones with further accents being developed through wrought iron mini-domes and elegant rustic pots on pedestals. These would be filled with cascading herbs whilst flat growing peppermint scented mentha would fill the gaps between the steps. Regulated symmetry would be the fashion of this formal yet classical Gourmet garden design.

Herbs were carefully selected to include the following 5 categories:

Culinary herbs
Medicinal herbs
Cosmetic herbs
Decorative herbs
Folkloric herbs

There’s an earthy satisfaction about walking out of your kitchen and picking fresh herbs to be used in your day’s cooking.

Bay leaves are best used for venison and bobotie and these were planted for screening, in that they are evergreen and have a tall yet narrow growth pattern.

There’s always a rush of sensual pleasure that comes from simply brushing against a lavender hedge and in light of this, strongly perfumed basil and lavender were used as hedging, while standard lemon and lime trees were formally arranged to support the symmetrical design.

It was essential that the herb selection entertained all 5 of the senses. Bursts of flavour, crunchy textures, visual excitement and smell were considered at each step of the garden design process. Various herbs were introduced to Dr Kwini prior to planting, since smell is one of the most evocative senses and we wanted to ensure that the family took pleasure from each herb encounter. The garden, after all, was designed so that the entire Kwini family could have fun in it. We also queried Dr Kwini as to which type of foods were the family’s favourites and planting was synchronised accordingly.

Fruiting Olive trees were planted to enhance the vertical horizon and to dilute the enormous visual size of the adjacent retainer wall.

Power-packed aromatic herbs such as fennel, coriander, basil and thyme were planted in abundance, throughout the entire structured garden.

Fennel, great with a variety of fish dishes, would also contribute towards the family’s health throughout winter with its medicinal properties in the treatments of minor ailments such as coughs and splutters.

The decorative nuance created by herbs, was accentuated magnificently by the red and yellow coloured spinach leaves and purple coloured chillies. These chillies, when dried and broken, could also be used as a deterrent for ants around the house and garden.

Juniper Sky rocket conifers were planted and thus justified in the design as a folkloric herb. Many ancient cultures burnt juniper branches as part of their rituals and traditions. Few people are aware that Juniper berries are the principal flavourant for the well known spirit, Gin!

Enchanting roses and pansies were added for colour whilst also contributing to both the culinary and decorative aspect of this gourmet garden. The aroma from rose petals and lavender can enhance the luxury of bathing, and encourages relaxation and enhanced sleep.

Abacus Gardens Design team suggested that Dr Kwini places wooded rosemary cuttings between the logs which will be used for firewood, in the cold coming wintery months. The fresh aroma will permeate all dwelling areas once these cosy home-fires get crackling.

With the introduction of coriander and lemon grass, the family would be encouraged to explore the exotic flavours of Asian cuisine whilst rocket, celery and lettuce would always ensure fresh and healthy pickings for every day salads.

The highlight of the Gourmet garden installation no doubt was the final handover, as Abacus Gardens had prepared a multi-course meal for Dr Kwini and his family, using herbs exclusively from his garden. The following were prepared for this handover feast:

Violas frozen in ice-cubes
Olive oil was infused with both chilli and rosemary, and used as a dressing
Crispy foccacia was sprinkled with chives and rosemary
Fresh garden salad included baby herb leaves, lettuce, celery, coriander and rocket
Pasta punched with chilli and basil
Minted ice tea
Herbed parsley butter
Cottage cheese with roughly chopped chives
Gooseberry ice cream
Jug of ice cold water with slithers of fragrant lemon

Click here if you would like to FAST TRACK an enquiry to have a Verge garden designed and installed especially for your home.

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