Soil Stories | Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

As World Soil Day approaches on the 5th of December 2023, the significance of soil health takes centre stage in our Soil Stories initiative. In this interview, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens, nestled within the South African Biodiversity Institute (SANBI), shares insights into their profound relationship with soil health and the pivotal role Atlantic Fertilisers plays in nurturing the lush landscapes they oversee.

Delving into the symbiotic relationship between botanical beauty and sustainable soil, Kirstenbosch highlights how soil health is intrinsically tied to biodiversity, while Atlantic Fertiliser’s steadfast support emerges as a beacon of organic gardening excellence.

Question 1: What Does Soil Health Mean to Us?

Response:

Kirstenbosch, as a part of SANBI, has an intrinsic bond with soil health. Biodiversity, which is our primary focus, unequivocally encompasses the vitality of soil. Soil health, to us, signifies the responsible and sustainable utilization of soil. It’s about leaving it in a state that can be harnessed not only for the next growing season but for generations to come. This means preserving the soil’s structure, ensuring it provides a habitat for the diverse lifeforms within it, enabling them to maintain its fertility and productivity. It’s a safeguard against soil erosion and degradation.

Soil health implies using soil-enhancing products that respect the unseen but vital organisms – from earthworms to fungi – that underpin the intricate web of life in the soil. Organic gardening and farming are our chosen paths because they champion soil health, which, at its core, is about biodiversity.

Question 2: Why Do We Use Atlantic Fertiliser?

Response:

Our relationship with Atlantic Fertilisers is deeply rooted, spanning nearly a quarter of a century. Their unwavering support has been instrumental in nurturing the heart of Kirstenbosch.

We’ve employed their products in our nurseries, gardens, and lawns, even among our most delicate Fynbos species. What sets Atlantic Fertilisers apart is its versatility, as it can nourish lawns, trees, and a spectrum of garden plants. Personally, I’ve found it effective in my vegetable garden.

One of the primary challenges in organic gardening is the bulkiness of organic materials, but Atlantic Fertiliser consolidates the feeding power of several cubic meters of compost or manure into a compact yet potent form. This compactness is a blessing for a garden as extensive as Kirstenbosch, where tons of organic matter are required to sustain our lawns.

Furthermore, Atlantic Fertiliser’s consistency and reliability in organic fertilisers stand out, eliminating the unpredictability of organic sourcing, which can sometimes introduce unwanted weed infestations and plant burn. It’s a trusted, friendly companion in our journey towards maintaining both soil health and the unique biodiversity of Kirstenbosch.

For more information on this beautiful garden visit the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden website here: https://www.sanbi.org/gardens/kirstenbosch/