In 2022, the Merwe family embraced an extraordinary opportunity to relocate their regenerative farm from Delmas, Mpumalanga, to the breathtaking Garden Route in the Western Cape. Under the visionary leadership of Schantel Merwe and her husband, Etienne, Vanderfax has evolved into a cutting‐edge cut flower farm that not only supplies exquisite blooms for events and shops nationwide, but also provides edible flowers and organic compost to clients both locally and internationally—all achieved without the use of pesticides or herbicides.
Starting afresh in their new home, the Vanderfax team built their own planting beds, fine-tuned an efficient irrigation system and adopted a suite of regenerative agricultural practises. By utilising rich compost, laying down weed mats, and crafting a naturally balanced ecosystem, they have transformed their land into a thriving haven where nature truly fights its own battles. For instance, when a significant grasshopper infestation threatened their crops, the ingenious application of small protective bags over the flowers saw the pests vanish—without any resort to chemical or biological sprays. Livestock, including chickens and ducks, now work in tandem with nature, helping to control pests and fertilise the soil, while strategically placed T-posts encourage owls and other beneficial birds to enhance the ecological balance.
Set against the majestic backdrop of the Outeniqua Mountains, Vanderfax specialises in cultivating unique and indigenous varieties—such as Scabiosa incisa and the George Lily—that are seldom found elsewhere on the Garden Route. Their unwavering commitment to building strong, healthy soil is evident in the annual addition of nutrient-rich compost, ensuring that both the land and its produce grow ever more resilient.
Guests are invited to visit the farm on Fridays between 09:00 and 12:00, where they can create their own bouquets, or join the Bouquet Club for an immersive learning experience. For those who prefer a regular touch of floral elegance, a bouquet subscription service is available with deliveries across Mossel Bay, Groot Brak, and George. Schantel has also expanded the product range to include a bespoke fragrance collection—featuring diffusers, candles, hand soap, hand cream, and, of course, perfume—and the team is exploring the prospect of retailing fresh chicken and duck eggs in the near future.
Vanderfax is more than just a farm—it is a living testament to the power of regenerative practises and the belief that working harmoniously with nature yields extraordinary results. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Schantel, Etienne and the entire Vanderfax team for their innovative approach and unwavering commitment to sustainable farming.
Further demonstrating their dedication to the environment and community, Vanderfax now supports the Friends of the Biosphere programme as a Hero, making monthly donations to champion environmental causes. Our deepest thanks go to Schantel and the Vanderfax team for their steadfast dedication to sustainability and their ongoing support of the Friends of the Biosphere programme.
Type of entity: Regenerative Flower Farm
Location: R102, George
Contact: schantelvdm@gmail.com
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