How a Garden Teaches Compassion
As the days steadily grow shorter and cooler, I am called to spend a few moments appreciating the uncomplicated beauty of the garden. As sentient beings, plants possess an ability that perhaps we could all benefit to experience within ourselves.
Companion gardening is a concept of placing plants that benefit each other close together. For example, planting basil nearby a tomato plant helps deter tomato hornworms. I use this method with some of my garden plants. However, the majority of the garden is what I refer to as a harmony garden. Here the plants have migrated and taken root where they feel they will thrive and benefit. This includes plants that some may refer to as weeds.
On occasion, it becomes necessary to relocate a plant. Although, for the most part, I prefer an organic flow of allowing them to thrive in the spot they have chosen.
Garden of Harmony
Dandelion, this humble little healer is seen by many as a weed. Ironically, it is perhaps, one of the most important plants in the garden. Not only does it enhance the soil, it heals and nurtures our mind, body, and soul. What’s lovely is that the other plants know this and thrive alongside the dandelion, appreciating it’s understated brilliance.
The morning glory, the extrovert of the garden. It climbs and blooms everywhere as if to shout, “Look at me!” And sometimes it needs to be rerouted so as to allow the other plants to thrive as well. It grows and climbs alongside the cucumber vine, up the trellis. Each with their own purpose and beauty, they grow together with no prejudice of which path they choose to take.
Stevia, sweet, and demure. It holds its small space and flowers accordingly. A welcome blessing to the butterflies and honeybees.
In its own little pot, the spearmint enjoys the company of the other plants. Sharing in the sunshine and water. There is no competition here.
The unhurried bell pepper plants, hiding behind the morning glory, bloom and grow to provide nourishment.
What is the gentle reminder the harmony garden wishes to share with us? Each plant is unlike the others, yet they thrive and bloom and coexist. Never is felt the pretentious idea that one is better than the other. Harmonious acceptance and peace. The plants know it as this is the message they wish to convey to all of humanity. Are we ready to listen?
Daughter of the Earth, Mother of her creations. Ivanna (Evie) doesn’t care for titles, but the ones that fit best are homeschool mom, herbalist, and blogger. Her greatest joy is guiding others to find true wellness within themselves and Mother Earth. When not spending time with her beloved family, she can be found researching everything related to holistic wellness, crafting herbal remedies, or visiting with the plants in the Magical Garden.
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Response to "How a Garden Teaches Compassion"
I really need to find a love of gardening, so much to be gained by it!
I totally agree, there is so much to be gained from gardening. I enjoy my little garden and all that it has shared with me.
Lovely article
Thank you so much, Leslie!