One of the very few positive effects of the pandemic has been how lockdown has created the time space for many people to connect with nature. The great outdoors has provided relief, solace, inspiration and relaxation during one of the most stressful periods that humanity has experienced.

​

It will continue to do so after the dark days of COVID are long behind us so this is the ideal time to try a new hobby that will reward you with a lifetime's enjoyment and a host of other health benefits.

​

I have been gardening seriously for around five years. I turned to it as a hobby to help me heal both physically from illness and mentally after the death of my mother. I know how powerful nature's medicine is.

 

Up until the start of lockdown in March 2020, I had an allotment at the Eden site near Carrickfergus. I really enjoyed my introduction to proper gardening on the site and I learned a lot from the community of gardeners who tended their plots there. But I wanted a new challenge and also to offer the opportunity to someone else on the long waiting list.

 

Luckily, I was able to secure this small plot of agricultural land beside my house and so I began this project in February 2021. I live between Whitehead and Carrickfergus and the nearest village is Eden – so my plan is to breath life into my own Garden of Eden! And so begins my epic gardening journey!

​

I am embarking on a project over the next year to turn this rather uninspiring empty plot (see picture below which was taken in Feb 2021) into a productive garden that is a haven for both humans and wildlife.

​