First of all, congratulations on this national award, but before we get to the recognition, I have to ask: what was your motivation to enter such a prestigious competition? What does gardening mean to you?
– I really like to be in the garden, or rather I would say to exist in the garden. Before going to work in the summer, the fresh, clean air, the morning dewdrops, the awakening garden birds set the mood for the whole day and recharge me. I am happy to capture the moment that happens, be it a bee pollinating my zucchini, or the rays of the rising sun illuminating a bunch of red tomatoes. I try to pass this experience on to others on social media, or even on the biggest video sharing site. I am proud that many of my acquaintances have been able to get interested in gardening, and through this, friendships have also been formed. This competition is about ”cutting into my profile” gardening, the love and beauty of the garden, and last but not least, it emphasizes the importance of producing and consuming quality food.
Photo: Interviewee
Exactly what kind of garden did you call it, what can you find out about it?
– In the mind of the average person, gardening is digging, hoeing, weeding, a kind of peasant work, straight, cleared rows and a permanent robot. Well, my garden is not like that, my garden is a place of recharge.
I don’t turn the soil, I don’t have a hoe, I use mulch, I take advantage of the opportunities provided by plant associations and protective plants, my hens collect the pests in the garden, so I don’t even have to spray. Unfortunately, the previous owner sold the farmland, so I grow some of the plants in raised beds and try to do everything I can to make the area full of life again. The plot is functionally divided into several parts, totaling 3,640 square meters, certainly not small. Part of it is a kitchen garden, in this part there is an 18-square-meter specially designed greenhouse and a bee pasture, but the plot also includes an orchard and a grove, where the plants are arranged in such a way that something blooms in every season. The pine trees planted every year after the holidays were also located here.
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Gardening Expert
Editor: First of all, congratulations on winning this national award! It’s a remarkable achievement. Before we dive into the recognition itself, I want to ask: what motivated you to enter such a prestigious competition?
Gardening Expert: Thank you so much! I’m truly honored to receive this recognition. My motivation for entering the competition stems from my deep passion for gardening. For me, it’s not just about growing plants; it’s about truly existing in the garden.
Editor: That’s a beautiful sentiment. Can you elaborate on what gardening specifically means to you?
Gardening Expert: Absolutely! I cherish those early summer mornings when I step into the garden surrounded by fresh, clean air. The morning dewdrops glistening on the leaves and the sounds of waking garden birds create a meditative environment that sets a positive tone for my entire day. I find joy in capturing those moments—like a bee pollinating my zucchini or the rays of the rising sun illuminating my ripe tomatoes.
Editor: It sounds like you have an incredibly intimate relationship with your garden. How do you share these experiences with others?
Gardening Expert: I love sharing my experiences on social media and even on the biggest video-sharing platforms. It fills me with pride to see my acquaintances getting interested in gardening as a result. Beyond sharing techniques or tips, it’s about fostering connections. Many friendships have blossomed through our shared love of gardening.
Editor: That’s fascinating! And it seems that your participation in the competition was also about conveying a larger message. Can you discuss that?
Gardening Expert: Certainly! This competition isn’t just about showcasing my gardening profile; it also emphasizes the beauty and love inherent in gardening. A significant part of it is raising awareness about the importance of producing and consuming quality food. We often overlook where our food comes from, and I aim to encourage more people to appreciate the journey from garden to table.
Editor: That’s an important message. In today’s world, how do you think gardening can play a role in connecting people and communities?
Gardening Expert: Gardening can be a bridge that connects people across generations and cultures. Whether it’s sharing seeds, gardening techniques, or produce, it cultivates a sense of community. Moreover, during these challenging times, I’ve observed that more people are turning to gardening for solace, making it a therapeutic activity that promotes mental well-being.
Editor: It sounds like you’re really tapping into the therapeutic aspects of gardening. What advice do you have for beginners who might feel overwhelmed by the idea of starting their own garden?
Gardening Expert: Start small! Choose a few plants that you love and can easily care for. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes; they are part of the learning process. Sometimes, even the simplest things can yield the greatest joys. And remember, it’s not just about the end results—enjoy the journey of nurturing a living thing and watching it grow.
Editor: Wise advice! what are your plans now that you’ve earned this recognition?
Gardening Expert: I plan to use this award as a platform to further promote the joys and benefits of gardening. I want to inspire others to engage with nature and appreciate the beauty around them while emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices.
Editor: Thank you so much for sharing your insights with us today. Your passion for gardening is truly inspiring, and I believe it will resonate with many readers.
Gardening Expert: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure to share my thoughts with you. Let’s keep cultivating that love for gardening together!