“My foray into gardening has no particular starting point, as far as I can recall. My grandparents farmed the land, and my parents were big on growing mainly food where we lived. I recall having more than a passing curiosity for flowers in particular and tried my hand wherever/whenever I could. In later years, I have become consumed with collecting and grooming plants” — Sandra Donaldson

It was hard to ignore the many complimentary comments about Sandra Donaldson’s garden. SO is delighted to now share the beauty of her oasis. No surprise that for this gardener there are only positives in her world. Indeed, her take is that “it is a spiritual experience… The words of American essayist Ralph Waldo Emerson “Earth laughs in flowers” is my credo, and so I make my journey much about such laughter. Plants represent life at another level and there is something akin to a vibrational energy that humans can experience when they collide.”

Eschew all thoughts of zero challenges. Donaldson has had failures in her effort to grow some things but that she surmises is a part of the learning process. The positives however, outweigh the pitfalls.” The positives I would categorise as joy, a God-presence that is totally fulfilling. Having successfully created a garden, I am able to propagate and share plants with friends. I also enjoy what similarly minded friends share with me. The space allows me to entertain friends surrounded by beauty”, she adds.

When asked when she felt she had become a bona fide gardener, the woman whose first plant purchased was a rose (talk about starting at the top!) throws her head back in laughter as she responds, “I think the feedback from my friends was the first point. I’ve also made a few propagating experiments that have been successful, so I feel blessed.”

Her gardening occurs twice weekly. Watering occurs daily. Due to the volume of water required, and the reality of lock-offs, she’s created a grey water system which has reduced her use of potable water quite significantly. Plants are fed fortnightly and sprayed for insects and fungus. Where possible, infected plants are removed to “sick bay” for treatment.

Donaldson’s tips for SO readers are as practical as her no-nonsense approach to gardening:

Identify the reason for wanting a garden. Showpiece? Shrine? Entertainment area?

I believe gardening is an art form. One has to connect with self to figure out what you want to express. For me, what I try to express is harmony. I try to reintroduce things of old (old irons, pots, kettles) into my garden and to grow many different plants together. You will find an orchid amidst a fern, and a rose. This concept generates bursts of colour.

Also do not be afraid to test your skill. Be ready for a challenge. Nothing is impossible. Use the Internet for guidance if you are unsure. So many people are afraid to grow orchids, for instance. Yet many will succeed with effort. A good place to start is with native orchids.

Once you gain experience you become encouraged to try and even experiment!

I believe a great garden is frequently refreshed. The work never ends, so there is always something new to experience.