Cultivating Green Delights: Embrace the Art of Gardening

I grew up in Bosnia in a small village in the countryside. In my home country, it was quite normal for me to harvest potatoes and other vegetables from my own garden. After I moved to Switzerland, I took over my parents-in-law's allotment 13 years ago. From March to November, I spend my free hours in this garden almost every day, starting early with planting the seedlings. I always take care of my plants with a lot of love and patience, so that we can provide ourselves with our own potatoes, onions, hot peppers, cucumbers, currants, grapes and many beautiful flowers throughout the year.

The fascination of how such a small seed can grow into such a large plant is something I also pass on to my two children. In particular, my eight-year-old son shares my enthusiasm for nature and often accompanies me. We usually spend the summer days with the whole family on our 100 square meter plot. From time to time we also barbecue with the plot neighbors, who after so many years have become like a little family with whom one spends a lot of time. Especially during the Corona Lockdowns, we spent a summer in the countryside - so we didn't have to completely miss out on the vacation feeling.

I enjoy the luxury of being able to grow my own vegetables and having a retreat where I can live out my love of nature. Even though the garden takes a lot of time and effort, for me it is worth every second and every drop of sweat. It's an oasis, a perfect gathering place for family and friends. However, you also have to deal with setbacks that are frustrating: For example, when bugs or heavy hail damage the plants and destroy the hours of work. But that is the only downside of my hobby. With our allotment garden, we have created a cozy place in the midst of Swiss flora and fauna where we can retreat and relax after the installation work.