Garden for Life

In 2020 expect to see Helen’s newest feature (currently under construction), a berry cage to house a grape, persimmon, strawberries and red and black raspberries. Using a boundary fence, she’s maximised space, while still creating an accessible, netted growing area to protect crops from birds.

At 82 years, Helen’s garden has been created to minimise heavy lifting, and beds are built at just the right height for her small frame. Though remarkably energetic and nimble, her garden design works well for her age and stage of life.

You won’t find an inch of lawn at Helen’s 400 sq m property. Arborist mulch is underfoot throughout. It provides a clean walking surface, is low maintenance, and retains soil moisture.

Helen’s 20+ fruit trees are grown in EverGrow bags to constrain the roots, and keep fruit on the lower branches (perfect for pruning and easy picking.) Vegetables and herbs dotted between the trees maximises food yield.  

The tunnel house is hugely productive. Helen raises her own seedlings – selling these and fresh produce each Sunday at the Carterton Farmers’ Market.  She hosts workshops on edible gardening, compost making and seed saving.

She is passionate about growing her own food, and sharing this knowledge with others.

EverGrow bags, plants and seeds for sale – cash only.