Gardening Tips for Beginners

(Updated Version)

Not sure how to start or where to begin your gardening journey? Don’t worry! With over 20 years of experience, I’m here to guide you step by step. Gardening doesn’t have to be overwhelming - it’s all about keeping it simple and fun. In this article, we’ll focus on gardening on the ground, leaving aside container gardening for the time being. Let’s dig in.

 

Where to Plant
Start by identifying a plot of land within your compound. Even a small area, like the patch of land near your gate, can work wonders. Consider how much space you have and choose a location that gets enough sunlight. Accessibility for watering and maintenance is key - ensure it’s easy to reach and work with.

 

Cleaning Up
Before planting, clear the area thoroughly. Remove weeds, rocks, and debris from both the surface and below the soil. A clean foundation is essential for healthier plants and makes planting easier. Remember, the larger the plot, the more time it will take to prepare, so start small if you’re a beginner.

Soil Matters

Examine the soil type in your chosen area. In Malaysia, clay soil is common but tends to harden quickly, especially in hot weather. If the soil is too hard, water won’t penetrate deeply, which can hinder plant growth. Consider enhancing the soil by mixing in black soil or compost. Black soil not only improves moisture retention but also adds an attractive contrast when paired with lush green plants.

 

Essential Tools
Equip yourself with the basics:

A hand trowel for planting and digging.

Pruning shears for trimming plants.

Garden gloves for protection and comfort.

A watering can for precise watering.

Start with these essentials and expand your toolkit as needed. For example, a small shovel and soil moisture meter can be helpful once you’re more experienced.

Protection and Safety

Always wear gardening gloves - they protect your hands from dirt, thorns, and insects. Consider gardening boots if you’re working on uneven or rocky ground. If you’re out in the sun for long hours, a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen are must-haves for your safety.

 

What to Plant
Choose plants suited to your climate and environment. As a beginner, focus on low-maintenance options. Those grow easily and are satisfying to nurture. Avoid  ambitious choices to start; small successes will build your confidence as you grow your green thumb.

 

Learning Along the Way
Gardening is an ongoing learning experience. Read books, explore online resources, or join free gardening workshops if available. Don’t hesitate to ask for advice at local nurseries - most staff are happy to share tips. Every plant you grow teaches you something new, making the journey all the more rewarding.

Dedication and Passion

Gardening requires time, effort, and a love for the process. Be prepared to get sweaty and dirty - it’s part of the experience. Dedication and passion will help you enjoy the challenges and rewards that come with nurturing your own green haven.

 

Happy gardening. In the next article, we will dwell into other matters on gardening.

(Ms. Nava is a dynamic individual in her 60s, leading yoga sessions at Nava's Zen while also embracing her passion for gardening through Zen Blooming. With credentials in gardening and extensive experience, she cultivates a serene environment that reflects her commitment to Zen, inspiring others to find balance and tranquility in their lives). 

 

Pineapple Salted Fish Curry Recipe

Pineapple salted fish curry is a beloved dish among the Eurasian, Portuguese (EASY MALAYSIAN DEVIL CURRY), and Malay communities. It’s a dish I truly love and have introduced to my other half-half. He, too, has grown fond of it, though he never knew such a dish existed until we got married. Yippie yeh!

Long Beans Stir Fry Recipes - Chinese Style

The versatile and affordable long beans can be transformed into various dishes - ranging from stir fries to soups or curries. However, nothing beats the simplicity of cooking long beans as a stir-fried dish. Trust me, a long bean stir fry as a pure vegetarian option is absolutely delightful (CHINESE CHILLI CASHEW VEGGIE STIR FRY VEGETARIAN)

Whether you prefer them cooked to a crunchy texture or soft bites, it works beautifully. Especially when stir-fried with common kitchen staples, these effortless, quick dishes are a winner. Ready to dive into the recipes? Not just one, but three easy and delicious options for you (PICKLED RED CABBAGE VEGETARIAN). 

Malaysian Wildboar Curry/Kattu Pandi Kulambu

(Updated Version)

Pork and wild boar are my favorites, but the same can't be said for my hub - another Indian who was never exposed to eating these meats. However, he doesn’t stop me from enjoying them. I cook these two meats every now (PORK CHOPS CHINESE STYLE) and then or get my fix when dining out. 

And when it comes to wild boar, can you imagine a spicy curry with tender meat pieces clinging to the fats? Ohhhh! Truly a food revelation - you just can’t get enough (PORK BELLY WITH SALTED FISH). But wait, cherish the balance of the curry, as I’ll share what to do with it.

Pickled Red Cabbage Recipe

On a whim, I didn’t make pickled red cabbage. Soft, tender red cabbage with a zing and zang, reminiscent of what I’ve tried in German restaurants paired with pork sausages and mashed potatoes. I crafted my version of pickled cabbage, inspired by flavors I've tasted, and added my own unique twist (MALAYSIAN DEVIL CURRY RECIPE). If you’re looking for a conventional pickled red cabbage, you might be surprised (CARROT YOGURT SALAD).

Tom Yum Fish Recipe

Have you tried a tom yum fish dish before? No, I’m not referring to steamed tom yum or any other variations that may come to mind. I’m introducing a tom yum fish dish, where fried fish pieces are coated in a thick, homemade tom yum paste. Does it sound familiar or intriguing, but you’re not sure if you should try it?

Trust me, it’s all good to go. It’s a unique and outstanding dish that may not be common, but there’s always a first time - and it might not be the last (BALINESE FISH SAMBAL RECIPE). 

Chandigarh, North India - Urban Serenity & Marvels

From Kullu Manali (KULLU MANALI MAJESTY) to Chandigarh. India's first planned city, Chandigarh stands as a testament to modern urban design and efficiency. Renowned for its well-organized sectors, lush greenery, and wide avenues, Chandigarh blends functionality with aesthetic charm. Designed by Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier in the 1950s, the city boasts clean, tree-lined streets, serene parks, and distinctive architecture. Chandigarh serves as the capital of both Punjab and Haryana states, fostering a vibrant cultural scene alongside its administrative importance. As a model of sustainable urban living (HOKKAIDO WINTER TIME), Chandigarh continues to offer a tranquil yet dynamic environment (SURAKARTA HEARTBEAT & BOROBUDUR ETERNAL LEGEND). 

During the six-hour journey, we encountered unexpected challenges. Several tour members fell ill with stomach upset, vomiting, nausea, and fever. Despite their boasts of extensive travel experience across India, they were unprepared for the winding mountain roads, plus, I reckon it’s the effects of late-night meals followed by over-eating again at breakfast buffet. This lack of foresight led to unscheduled stops for fresh air and medical assistance, disrupting the journey. Some had to visit the doctor while others waited on the coach.

Kullu Manali - Experiencing Himalayan Majesty

Next on our itinerary was Kullu Manali (SHIMLA ESSENCE OF HIMALAYSAN GEM). After a comfort break and lunch, we arrived at the Westin Hotel and Resort in Manali past 10 PM. Declining the late dinner, I headed straight to my room and was impressed by its cleanliness and comfort. A refreshing shower marked the end of my day before bedtime. The buffet breakfast the next morning wasn’t remarkable but provided the necessary fuel for our activities at Rohtang Pass (HOKKAIDO WINTER LUST).

Rohtang Pass, nestled in the majestic Himalayas at an altitude of about 3,978 meters, holds significant historical (VARANASI SACRED GANGES) and geographical importance. It has served as a crucial trade route since ancient times, connecting the lush Kullu Valley to the arid Lahaul and Spiti Valleys. The name Rohtang translates to "pile of corpses" due to its challenging terrain and unpredictable weather, which historically made it a difficult passage. Today, Rohtang Pass offers breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and alpine meadows.

Shimla, North India: Essence of the Himalayan Gem

Once I dismounted from the horse (SHIMLA -  CAPTURING NATURE'S LOVE), the guide shared his number for arranging the ride back down the hill. After waiting for ten minutes and seeing no sign of the rest of my tour group who had opted for the ride, I decided not to wait any longer. I paid the entrance fee and began my trek up the uneven path.

As I ascended, the challenge became evident - each step tested my endurance and leg strength. Halfway through, I found myself questioning whether to push forward or turn back. Despite the struggle, I continued, passing stalls selling various local products on both sides of the path (PRETORIA MOMENTS & CAPE TOWN MAGIC). 

While my interest in shopping wasn't particularly high, the allure of local bites and drinks was hard to resist. However, observing food vendors handling items without gloves in such a dusty environment gave me pause. The lack of covering for the food at these stalls added to my concern.

My walk eventually brought me to what seemed like the viewpoint (KATAGARAMA SRI LANKA) at Mahasu Peak, where I hoped to catch an overview of Kufri or even Shimla. However, the area was packed with locals who showed no signs of moving. Waiting for my turn seemed futile, especially considering the time constraint to rejoin my tour group, so I decided to return to where my guide was supposed to meet me.

 

After waiting for 20 minutes with no response to my calls, he finally appeared, casually taking photos as I called the horse "Darling." He corrected me, revealing the horse's name as "Raku." Oh, the innocence of it all! I thanked him profusely with a namaskar and a token before we embarked on the ride downhill.

Back in the van, we switched vehicles midway and eventually reached Jakhu Road by 4:30 pm, missing out on visiting the Shri Hanuman Mandir and Christ Church as per our itinerary. Despite this, hunger was gnawing at me after climbing steep steps, and all we could find was Cafe Under Tree. Quite a surprise! Famished, we indulged in a mix of Western and Indian vegetarian dishes - Mushroom Fried Rice, Vegetarian Biryani, and Manchurian Kofta - all delicious and reasonably priced.

Satiated, we returned to the hotel where the experience of bucket bathing added a nostalgic touch to our day. Seated on a stool, filling the bucket and using the scoop brought back memories of simpler times, reminiscent of my childhood in Jalan Chan Ah Thong Brickfields government quarters. A classic way to end my adventurous day in Shimla.

Shimla - Capturing Nature's Love

Waking up (UTTAR PRADESH), oh-my! I realize that I am in Shimla. Shimla is like a love name for me, just like how I felt when I was in Jaipur and also Agra. Shimla, nestled in the serene hills of Himachal Pradesh, holds significant historical importance as the former summer capital of British India. Established in the early 19th century, it served as a pivotal center of colonial administration and cultural exchange, reflecting the grandeur of Victorian architecture and British influence. Today, Shimla stands as a testament to its storied past, attracting visitors with its cool climate, panoramic vistas of the Himalayas, and a blend of colonial charm with vibrant local culture. Its enduring appeal lies not only in its historical significance but also in its role as a picturesque retreat (SURAKARTA HEARTBEAT & BOROBUDUR ETERNAL LEGEND). 

Uttar Pradesh & Haryana: Sacred Legends of North India

Back to India, this time to explore Shimla and Chandigarh. On another solo trip, I joined a tour group with a mix of familiar faces, and new acquaintances for a 7-day, 6-night adventure. The journey began in New Delhi, where I finally hit the bed in my room past 1 AM. By 8:30 AM the next morning, we were on our way to Shimla, embarking on an almost 10-hour road journey. Leaving New Delhi on a busy Saturday, we faced peak weekend traffic, taking at least an hour to get onto the roads leading to Shimla. (HOKKAIDO WANDERLUST & GALLE SPOTS).

About two and a half hours later, we stopped for a comfort break at Mama Yadav, Shiva Dhaba in Babugarh, Uttar Pradesh, which was bustling with people. After a quick visit to the loo, I opted for a fresh, hot tea in a clay cup instead of sitting down to eat. The experience of watching the tea being poured into the clay pot made me grin, and the taste was delightful, transporting me to an ancient time

Unable to resist, I also indulged in some Paan. I have a true weakness for Paan, not just for the traditional variety but for the modern Paan, which has evolved to include innovative ingredients like chocolate, fruit syrups, and even ice cream, making it a trendy and versatile treat. It's such a delight, and if you come this far and don’t try Paan, what a waste.

Continuing our journey, we reached Jyotisar Temple in the Kurukshetra district of Uttar Pradesh, renowned as the site where Lord Krishna delivered the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna, a pivotal moment in the Mahabharata epic. Surrounded by tranquil landscapes and featuring a sacred Banyan tree where the divine discourse is believed to have occurred, the temple also includes a marble chariot symbolizing Krishna and Arjuna's conversation.

Having studied the Bhagavad Gita extensively, I felt a deep connection to the profound teachings shared in this sacred place. The dialogue between Krishna and Arjuna, addressing duty, righteousness, and life's essence, resonated profoundly as I explored the temple grounds, prayed, and sat beneath the Banyan tree. Reflecting on my visit, Jyotisar Temple not only provided a spiritual experience but also prompted introspection on the principles that Hindus cherish and strive to embody.

Next, we visited Bhishma Kund in Narkatari, Haryana, a site steeped in historical and religious significance from the Mahabharata. Legend has it that this is where Arjuna pierced the earth with an arrow to provide water for Bhishma Pitamah, who lay wounded on a bed of arrows during the Kurukshetra battle. The sacred water body formed by Arjuna's arrow symbolizes the profound respect and bond between these legendary warriors. For me, as someone deeply fascinated by the Mahabharata, experiencing the history of Bhishma Kund in Narkatari was truly meaningful.

Stopping for lunch at Mannat Haveli in Haryana, the bustling atmosphere saw our group eagerly ordering food. I opted for "Raj Kachori," a popular Indian chaat consisting of a crispy fried shell filled with potatoes, boiled moong dal, yogurt, spices, and chutney - a hearty and flavorful choice. Arriving at our Shimla hotel around 10 PM, I decided to skip dinner, mindful of the late-night meals that often accompany travel and lead to unwanted weight gain. Retreating to my room, I unpacked, showered, and called it a night. 

Easy Malaysian Devil Curry Recipe

(Updated Version)

Devil Curry, also known as "Debel Curry," has Portuguese origins and is widely enjoyed in Sri Lankan, Goan, and among the Malaysian Eurasian community. This rich, fiery red curry is crafted using a blend of spices, vinegar, and soy sauce. The choice of meat can vary, with options like beef, prawns, or chicken. Over time, I have created numerous variations of Devil Curry (EASY DRUMSTICK EGG CURRY), experimenting with different ingredients and combinations, including mutton, with and without potatoes.

Easy Drumstick Egg Curry Recipe

What a combination - drumsticks (moringa fruits or murungakkai sticks) and boiled eggs. All simmered in a spicy curry that tantalizes your taste buds with every mouthful, Aha! Is drumstick egg curry one of your favorites too? Maybe I shouldn’t assume, but this dish is truly a delight to your food senses. And the best part? You don’t need a million ingredients to whip it up. Budget-friendly cooking can be just as delicious, especially with yogurt enhancing the spices and elevating the curry’s flavors. Come on, let’s cook. 

Best Mango Curry recipe - Vegetarian

No, no, not just another mango curry with green mangoes. This one’s special - a classic, heritage mango curry made with sun-dried mangoes. Back in the day, instead of letting mangoes rot, people sliced and sun-dried them, preserving their goodness. 

These sun-dried mango pieces bring a unique depth to the curry. Alongside them are potatoes, spices, curry leaves, and a drizzle of Indian sesame oil to honor the heritage of Indian cooking.

Balinese Fish Sambal & Ikan Masak Merah

Back in 2009, I had the pleasure of spending six unforgettable days in Bali. This island, with its rich culture and history, left me spellbound. Years later, when I returned to Indonesia (YOGYAKARTA THE KICKOFF & SURAKARTA HEARTBEAT), my passion for Indonesian cuisine led me to savor a variety of dishes to my heart’s content. While Indonesian cuisine share some similarities with Malaysian Malay cuisine, particularly in the use of sambal - a fiery blend of fresh or red chilies, shallots, garlic, ginger, and tangy tamarind or lime juice - Indonesian sambal has its own unique charm. My sambal recipe also includes terasi (belacan) for an extra layer of depth.

Easy Carrot Yogurt Salad Recipes

The bright orange vegetable - are we talking about carrots? Affordable, packed with nutrients, and perfect for snacking. Carrots bring a wonderful touch to soups, stir-fries, and curries. But nothing beats a simple carrot yogurt salad. They offer a double or triple punch of health benefits, and the best part? They’re incredibly easy to make. Let me share a Turkish version, along with an Indian option - choose one or love both for different occasions.