Gardening and Life

Having lived in Australia for several years, I've felt that the beauty of nature and the vastness of the space are truly gifts from the Creator, providing support and nourishment for my body, mind, and spirit. Australia's climate is also ideal for the growth of different kinds of plants, which has made me "fascinated" with gardening, something that was difficult to practice in Hong Kong before. Over the past few years, watching the vegetables I've grown, from planting to harvesting to cooking, has brought me indescribable joy, allowing me to appreciate the wonders of creation up close.

Recently, I've fallen in love with Australian succulents. I believe they're a great choice for adding life and color to your home, whether you're a gardening novice or an expert. It's said that there are over 100 varieties of succulents in Australia, some of which are even unique to the country.

Succulents are known for their high resilience; they require minimal care and will thrive on their own. Their characteristics include:

• Succulent roots can mold if kept in damp conditions for extended periods, so using well-draining soil is very important.

• The stem of a succulent plant is the primary part for photosynthesis, not the leaves.

• They can survive in arid places, provided there is some sunlight and ventilation.

• Succulents are natural prolific growers; just buy one pot, and they will naturally produce many more offspring for you.

• Even a fallen leaf can continue to grow (it's amazing!).

Besides beautifying the home, gardening can also cultivate temperament and serve as a parent-child activity, conveying many messages. First, gardening trains our patience; plants need time to grow, teaching us to wait and observe their changes. Second, gardening develops our caregiving skills, such as watering, weeding, and pruning, similar to pet ownership but with lower costs and less time. Third, it helps us realize that everything we eat and use is the result of others' hard work, teaching us to cherish what we have. Fourth, plants can be arranged into decorative pieces, a fun activity that allows us to express our creativity and aesthetic sense.

No wonder Einstein said, "Understand nature better, and you will understand everything better."