This annual celebration invites plant enthusiasts, community members, and everyone who relishes the joys of greenery to embrace their inner host and celebrate their cherished gardens and green spaces with a delightful gathering.
Garden Day is not just an event; it’s a movement that encourages South Africans to revel in the simple but profound pleasures gardening brings to our daily lives. From an extravagant lunch on the lawn to intimate platters on the patio amid flourishing pot plants, the day invites participants to create unforgettable memories enveloped in nature’s beauty.
Whether it’s a grand tea party or a relaxed afternoon picnic, the essence encompasses everyone. Don your colourful flower crown and engage with your friends, family, and neighbours, as nature itself plays host.
“Gardening shakes us up and calms us down,” explains Dr Anesu Mbizvo, a dedicated garden friend who recalls her childhood escapades in nature.
“It grows patience and encourages us to observe fully. Each time we plant something, it’s a hopeful proclamation for the future.”
Anesu is a testament to the transformative power of gardening and looks forward to hosting her grandmother for a long, lazy lunch in her garden, acknowledging its contributions to shared joy and connection.
Aspiring to broaden the appeal of gardening, Mosa Seshoene — a third-generation farmer — echoes similar sentiments.
Her upbringing, steeped in agricultural traditions, nurtured a deep-seated passion for growing food. “It gives me a sense of pride when I see seeds transforming into produce ready for harvest,” she notes.
Seshoene, who advocates for accessible gardening through her social media platforms, plans to celebrate Garden Day with a culinary feast prepared with her homegrown ingredients alongside her celebrated sister, Mogau, the Lazy Makhoti. “On Garden Day, we will eat from the garden!” she declares excitedly.
“As we gear up for this event, it’s essential to consider how you’ll express your own garden spirit. Whether hosting a grand dinner or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon under your favourite tree, the options are endless. Remember, creativity reigns: transform your garden into an open-air cinema, throw a playful Olympics, or kick back with friends surrounded by greenery and laughter.”