A Family Tradition: Gardening Across Generations

Gardening has always been more than a hobby in our family it’s a cherished tradition passed down through generations. My mum learnt the art of gardening from her own mother, who taught her not just how to grow plants, but how to nurture life and appreciate the beauty of nature. From an early age, Mum would spend hours in the garden, learning how to plant flowers, tend to the family orchard and care for the soil. Her hands on experience and her mum’s wisdom shaped her into the incredible gardener she is today.

When I was growing up, these same lessons were lovingly passed on to me. Some of my fondest childhood memories are of spending time with Mum in the garden digging in the dirt, planting seeds, and waiting patiently for the first sprouts to appear. She taught me how to recognise the subtle signs of plant health, the importance of patience, and the joy of seeing something grow from nothing. It wasn’t just about gardening; it was about understanding the rhythm of life and the rewards of care and effort.

Now, as a mother myself, I’ve carried this tradition forward and shared it with my daughter. Watching her learn the same techniques and develop the same love for gardening fills my heart with pride. Together, we’ve created a garden that’s not just beautiful but also a living testament to three generations of knowledge, love, and passion. It’s amazing to see her connect with nature in her own way, just as I did with my mum, and my mum did with hers.

For us, gardening isn’t just about planting seeds it’s about planting memories, values, and connections that will continue to grow and flourish for years to come. It’s a reminder that even in this fast paced world, some traditions are worth slowing down for and preserving. And as I see my daughter tending to the garden, I can’t help but imagine her one day passing this tradition on to her own children, keeping our family’s love for gardening alive for generations to come.