We have often talked about changing our habits to more environmentally-friendly ones; refusing plastic bags, recycling recyclables, reducing and reusing. These are all commendable efforts but sometimes, they are not fun to be done. Personally, I have found another habit that is both environmentally-friendly and fun. This habit is none other than my gardening hobby.

Gardening is the practice of growing plants for food or as decorations. I first started gardening 2 years ago when a friend got me a succulent as a gift. Ever since then, my collection has expanded to include succulents, cacti and flowering plants. My family are also into gardening. In our backyard, we have grown flowers, vegetables and even some fruit trees.

Gardening is a great hobby as it brings us close to nature and lets us really understand about the environment. Working in the garden allows us to observe the interactions between the biotic and abiotic components; the interaction between plants and other living organisms with sunlight, water, temperature and climate. It is a better teacher compared to the classroom.

Gardening not only beautifies our gardens; it brings with it a host of ecological benefits as well. Having a garden increases the photosynthesis process which reduces our carbon footprint on the environment. The plants take in excess carbon dioxide from the environment and gives out oxygen. They also purify the air we breathe by removing pollutants from the air. Areas of high pollution, particularly big cities, would benefit from having gardens including miniature and indoor gardens.  

Gardening is also one of the best hobbies for protecting the ecosystem. The plants and trees maintain the natural ecosystem whilst at the same time attract birds and insects. They feed and pollinate flowers, thus helping to ensure the survival of the species. Other species such as earthworms and fungi are decomposers, meaning they break down dead plants or animals into tiny pieces to become part of the soil. This maintains the ecological equilibrium of the environment.

 Having a garden made me appreciate nature more. I learnt more about plants and their contributions to the environment through gardening than Biology lessons in school. I observed the birds, butterflies and plants co-exist in harmony with each other and felt grateful for our unique ecosystem. I felt overjoyed whenever my flowers are in bloom or when I get to savour the fruits and vegetables from my garden.