At one time English people were known as keen gardeners. When we first came here in mid-sixties, there were hardly any Asians, even in the East End where we first landed, bought our first home and settled down. Naturally our neighbours on both sides were friendly English people, ever ready to help and advise us.
Fortunately we were keen gardeners and although we did not know much, especially about English plants, flora and fauna, we loved roses, as they were so hard to grow in Dar, with hot climate all year round.
When we started planting flowers, especially tropical plants like African Marigold, Pink Rose, Sun Flower, Periwinkle and especially colourful roses, our neighbour was surprised, soon came to our aid, giving us tips. He was himself a keen gardener and his back garden was like floral shop.
There was a huge Sunday flower market near Mile End which he used to visit and buy most of his plants, in April or early May, taking us with him. That is how we developed our interest in gardening which is still with us, although with age and infirmity, we now go for ever-green permanent shrubs rather than seasonal plants.
Hanging baskets which were familiar sights in seventies, were seen as relics of gentler age, mainly confined to pubs, streets and few roundabouts, depending on Councils, how much they are able and willing to spend. But impetus, after a short interlude, is back in fashion, sales are up, mainly due to younger generation taking interest, posting on Instagram. Even lustre plants used are vast and varied, with traditional petunias, ivy, begonias, supplemented with cacti, colourful chilli peppers and few more.
It is indeed sad to notice how beautiful streets and roundabouts are in most EU countries where streets and roundabouts are meretriciously decorated with colourful fountains, statutes, lights and flowers galore!
In Spain, with their sub-tropical climate, even central reserves, dividing duel carriages and motorways are planted with flowering shrubs with rubber pipeline to automatically water these plants, twice a day in hot weather, with exercise machines everywhere for people to use and keep fit!
How come Spain, a struggling economy can afford such expenses! Spanish OAPs also get annual two weeks paid holidays. Could it be that they are indirectly paid for by Britain and Germany through our EU monthly contribution of £1 billion! It is time for our politicians to wise up and the need of our people a priority!
Kumudini Valambia
By email
