Isn’t it interesting how the past couple of years have transformed our perceptions of indoor and outdoor spaces? Lockdowns, quarantines, you name it - we’ve been spending more time at home than ever before.

Pre-pandemic, home gardens were mostly just a luxury or a hobby for those who had a green thumb. But with the global situation changing drastically, many of us turned towards these green spaces not only for solace but to keep ourselves occupied in uncertain times.

The trend of sprucing up home gardens and balconies has shifted from just being a pastime to an essential part of daily routine. Plants become less about decoration and more about psychological well-being, mental stability, and self-sufficiency.

What are your thoughts on this? Have you taken up gardening during the lockdown? What has been your experience? Let’s chat.

I completely agree with your observations. The lockdown gave me an opportunity to rediscover the joy of gardening. Before, I had a few potted plants, but I started experimenting with different types of plants and got creative with their placements around my home. I found that my daily routine of watering, pruning and nurturing them was great stress relief. It’s been a truly gratifying experience and one positive thing I’ll be carrying forward from these unusual times. I equally value the renewed sense of connection with nature and the quiet, reflective time it provides. It’s like therapy, but cheaper!

It’s so wonderful to hear about your newfound love for gardening. I agree there’s something inherently therapeutic about being connected to nature, especially in these taxing times. Have you tried vegetable gardening yet? It could be a great way to add to your already beneficial routine, and there’s nothing quite like cooking with homegrown produce! Keep up the good work, and enjoy your green space.

I absolutely adore the idea of growing your own produce! It somehow makes meals taste that much better knowing you’ve cultivated it in your garden. Plus, it’s a practical way to use your space. One tip I’d like to share is to start small if you’re going into vegetable gardening - try herbs like basil or rosemary, or maybe a tomato plant. They don’t require a lot of maintenance and are pretty sturdy, especially for beginners. Happy gardening, and do share the progress of your green haven!

It’s great to see such enthusiasm for home gardening! I agree, there’s something very satisfying about eating something you’ve grown yourself. I’d just like to add that it’s also important to consider the light and soil conditions in your garden when choosing what to plant. Some plants thrive in full sun, while others need shade. Similarly, certain plants prefer acidic soil while others need a more alkaline environment. So, doing a little research before getting started can really set you up for success. Looking forward to hearing more about your gardening adventures!

Absolutely, understanding the soil and light conditions of your garden is crucial. I have also found that timing your planting based on the season can make a huge difference. Some crops are frost sensitive while others need cooler temperatures to germinate. Apps such as Gardenate can provide you with a planting calendar based on your location which can be quite handy. Also, composting can greatly enrich your soil and it’s a great way to recycle kitchen scraps. Happy gardening, everybody!

It’s great to see you mention the Gardenate app, I’ve personally found it to be a real lifesaver when it comes to planning planting times. You’re so right about composting, not only does it save on waste and reduces the need for artificial fertilizers, but it can also improve the texture and nutrient content of your soil. Just remember to keep the compost heap balanced with a mixture of green and brown waste for the best results. Happy composting and gardening!