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Kirstenbosch Gardens has always been lauded as a pristine sanctuary for local and international visitors to enjoy the beauty of the Cape’s unique biome of fauna and flora.

While the setting remains unbeatable, the gardens themselves are looking a little tattier than usual and folks are starting to notice.

It seems the nature reserve also took a little beating from the COVID-19 pandemic, as some local and international visitors to K-Bosch report that the usually immaculate standard of the gardens has deteriorated over time.

CapeTalk‘s Mike Wills spoke to Keith Kirsten, a past council member of The Botanical Society of South Africa and Horticulturist about the Garden’s unfortunate decline.

The main criticism is that the Gardens are “untidy and wanting” of some Tender Loving Care. It is concerning to see it wane as it is an important tourist attraction that boosts the economy.

Kirsten said that Kirstenbosch Gardens’ current condition has much to do with the economic state of the country.

“The state of the nation has a lot to do with it. The setting is iconic and it’s still a magnificent place to be… but it’s not perfect. The gardens are not in the best place it could be.”

He said that the reason for the current state is down to a couple of challenges that the organisation has faced in the last few years, including a shortage of staff and reduced funds for horticulturists. He said the overall economic state of the Gardens means it receives limited funding, and therefore cannot afford the maintenance it need.

Plus, since COVID-19, the number of gardeners hasn’t been at full capacity and there are more interns than full-time workers now. The plants are feeling the effects of less knowledgeable hands in the dirt. Kirsten added that the Gardens curator might also be too busy with admin, affecting their ability to attend to the Gardens.

It’s not quite a sight for sore eyes and visitors are hoping that Kirstenbosch Gardens will be restored to its flawless condition sooner than later.

[source:capetalk]