Lately, I’ve been discovering that gardening isn’t just about planting seeds and waiting for them to grow, it’s a vibrant community in its own right. It’s a space where every gardener brings their unique perspective and “house rules.” Whether it’s how long to leave plants inside before transplanting, how to nurture your soil, or the right way to harden off your plants, every gardener has a method passed down from generations or born from personal experience. I’ve heard everything from “I’ve always done it this way” to “my grandparents were Alberta farmers, and this is what they taught me.” It’s fascinating to see how everyone’s approach is shaped by their stories and traditions.
The beauty of it all? People are eager to share their tips, tricks, and wisdom. There’s no single right way to garden, and that diversity of thought makes it feel like a collective learning experience. Maybe it’s the variety of approaches that makes gardening feel so inclusive and open. No matter your experience level, there’s always something new to discover and people willing to share their knowledge.
And it’s not just in my own garden where I’ve been hearing these conversations. As I’ve gotten more into gardening, I’ve started noticing other people talking about it, too. I was walking across campus today when I overheard someone reflecting on the recent rainfall. He was feeling a bit gloomy about the weather, but then his mood brightened as he realized how much his garden would benefit from the rain. It was a small moment, but it was clear that gardening, even in the rain, brings a sense of joy and connection. It’s therapeutic, grounding, and, for me, it’s been an unexpected source of peace during the rainy Spring days.
Even at work, my boss has picked up on my new gardening hobby. She recently invited me to swap a few plants and visit her garden, sparking a new connection I wouldn’t have expected. It’s funny how something as simple as plants can create these unexpected bonds.
Perhaps it’s also something about this city I’ve come to love. Walking through my neighbourhood, I’m struck by how many people are growing their own vegetable and fruit gardens.. It’s heartwarming to see so many gardeners nurturing their plots, and it makes me feel even more connected to my surroundings.
Gardening, it seems, is more than just about the plants. It’s a community. A community that shares wisdom, celebrates growth, and finds solace in the soil.