As proud sponsors of the Open Midlands Gardens, Blackwood’s was thrilled to see this year’s programme branching into new territory. For the very first time, winter gardens have been on show, and what a celebration it’s turned out to be!
One garden, in particular, has captured the hearts (and cameras) of visitors: the Hackland Aloe Garden. A testament to the vibrancy of indigenous planting, this spectacular space proves that South African gardens don’t have to sleep through winter — they can sing.
During the cooler months, this expansive garden is bursting with colour, life, movement and bird song. Aloes of every size and shape take centre stage — blazing in shades of orange, coral, red and yellow, while birds dart between blooms and bees hum busily from one nectar-rich flower to the next.
What makes the Hackland Aloe Garden truly special is its thoughtful design. Aloes are woven beautifully into a rich tapestry of other water-wise plants, creating texture, structure and seasonal interest around every corner. Winding pathways invite slow exploration, leading to shady picnic spots, quiet benches and secret nooks that encourage you to sit, soak it all in and be inspired.
Despite its grandeur, the principles behind the Hackland garden are wonderfully accessible:
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Water-wise planting
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Seasonal colour with purpose
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A habitat for birds, bees and butterflies
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Creating spaces to be enjoyed, not just admired
If you’ve ever wondered how to include aloes in your own garden — whether in borders, rockeries, pots, or wild-style groupings — this is the place to draw inspiration. The design ideas on display are achievable, sustainable and a brilliant example of how indigenous gardening can be both practical and breathtakingly beautiful.
The good news? You don’t need to imagine it — you can see it for yourself. While the aloes remain in bloom over the next few weeks, the Hackland Aloe Garden is open to visitors at just R30 per person. Pack a flask, grab your hat and spend a few hours in a garden that redefines winter as a season of abundance. And if you’d like to take a piece of the experience home with you, be sure to visit their Aloe Nursery filled with sun aloes for sale.
Visit, wander and let the colours of our South African winter spark something new in your own garden.
