This year's Blackwood's Open Midlands Garden Weekend is set to take place on Saturday, October 31, and Sunday, November 1. During the event, three distinct gardens will be open to the public, offering visitors a chance to explore and gather inspiration. The gardens include Amberfield Retirement Village in Howick, Carol Sacke's Garden in Merrivale Heights, and Hebron Haven Hotel Gardens in Dargle. Each garden boasts its own unique features and attractions.
Amberfield Retirement Village in Howick is one of the participating gardens, featuring nine individual resident gardens. These gardens showcase a variety of styles, ranging from shady cottage gardens to water-wise indigenous spaces. Visitors can also look forward to a floral art display, free demonstrations at 10:30 am on both days, refreshments, and plant sales. The event aims to support the SPCA, with entrance fees set at R20 per person for access to all nine gardens.
Carol Sacke's Garden in Merrivale Heights is another highlight of the Open Garden Weekend. This garden comprises creative garden rooms, each with its own distinct personality. The garden features whimsical and Japanese-inspired spaces, as well as formal and indigenous gardens. Visitors can explore the on-site art gallery, enjoy the tea garden, and take advantage of plant sales, all while supporting a good cause, namely CHOC.
The third participating garden is Hebron Haven Hotel Gardens in Dargle, which offers a charming country garden experience. The garden features mature trees, cottage-style planting, winding pathways, pergolas, and tranquil water features. On Sunday, visitors can enjoy a mini high tea, refreshments, and live music. Entrance fees for this garden are R10 per person, with proceeds going to support the Dargle Conservancy.
The Open Garden Weekend provides an excellent opportunity for gardening enthusiasts and nature lovers to explore the beautiful Midlands region. With its picturesque landscapes and unique gardens, the event is sure to attract visitors from across the country. The gardens are open from 9 am to 4 pm on both days, allowing ample time for visitors to explore and take in the sights.
Directions to each garden have been provided to ensure that visitors can easily find their way. For Amberfield Retirement Village, visitors can turn right into Karkloof Road and then left into Mare Street, with the entrance on the right. Carol Sacke's Garden is located in Broadacres Country Estate, accessible via District Road from the N3 North. Hebron Haven Hotel Gardens can be reached by taking the D203 from the Tweedie junction off the N3 and proceeding to the Dargle Road.
In summary, the Open Garden Weekend offers a unique chance to explore three exceptional gardens in the Midlands, each with its own character and attractions. With a focus on supporting local causes, the event promises to be an enjoyable and rewarding experience for all who attend. Visitors can look forward to a fun and inspiring weekend of gardening and exploration.
Key points
- The Open Garden Weekend will take place on October 31 and November 1.
- Three unique gardens in the Midlands will be open to the public.
- Entrance fees will support local causes, including the SPCA, CHOC, and Dargle Conservancy.
