Benoni sits on the Highveld: hot summers with afternoon storms, dry winters and frost. A garden designed for those conditions looks better for longer and costs less to keep.
Start with a plan
- How you'll use the space: play area, entertainment area, vegetable beds, low maintenance.
- Sun and shade: note which parts get afternoon sun and which stay shady in winter.
- Water: where water runs during storms, and whether you'll have a borehole, rainwater tank or municipal water only.
- Budget: landscapers can phase a big project over a few seasons.
Plants that suit Benoni
Indigenous plants from the Highveld and similar summer-rainfall areas generally handle frost and dry winters better and need less water once established. Ask your landscaper for frost-hardy choices, and group plants with similar water needs together.
Paving, lawn and irrigation
- Lawn is the thirstiest part of most gardens. Smaller lawns with beds or paving around them use less water.
- Permeable paving lets storm water soak in instead of running off.
- Drip irrigation on a timer waters beds efficiently. Water early in the morning or late afternoon.
Getting quotes
Ask for a written plan or sketch, a list of plants with sizes, what preparation and soil improvement is included, and who maintains the garden while new plants establish. See also garden service prices in Benoni.
Frequently asked questions
What's the best time of year to landscape in Benoni?
Spring and early summer (September to November) suit most planting, before the hottest weather and with the rains on the way. Hard landscaping such as paving, walls and irrigation can be done any time, and winter is often quieter for contractors.
Which plants cope best with Highveld frost and dry winters?
Indigenous, frost-hardy plants such as wild garlic, agapanthus, aloes and indigenous grasses do well. See our water-wise garden guide.
Should irrigation go in before planting?
Yes. Lay irrigation pipes and drip lines before planting and mulching, so beds aren't dug up later. See garden irrigation.
What should a landscaping quote include?
A plan or sketch, the plant list and sizes, soil preparation and compost, irrigation, labour, rubble removal and any guarantee on plants. Compare quotes on the same plan.
