I close my eyes and take a deep breath. The scent of fresh flowers and damp earth fills my senses. I open my eyes to a sea of colours – vibrant pinks, purples, and yellows. I'm standing in a garden overflowing with potted plants and hanging baskets.
Lush green ferns spill over the edges of terracotta pots, and delicate climbing vines weave their way up trellises. The air is buzzing with the sound of bees and butterflies flitting from flower to flower. I wander deeper, my footsteps crunching on the gravel path.
Sunbeams dance through the leaves of the trees, casting dappled shadows on the ground. I reach out and touch a velvety soft petal. A sense of peace and tranquility washes over me.
This is the home garden that Sabra Tufail has curated. This garden is a feast for the senses, a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It's a place to relax, rejuvenate, and reconnect with nature. Curating a garden like this requires dedication and effort. You'll need to choose the right plants for the amount of sunlight and water they require, and pot them in containers with proper drainage. Regular watering, fertilising, and pest control are also essential for keeping your plants healthy and thriving.
Gardening can be a deeply rewarding activity for individuals, providing a source of enjoyment, stress relief, and a connection to nature. It can also be a source of fresh, healthy food and can beautify your living space. Even a small balcony garden can bring a touch of life and colour to your surroundings.
These gardens can also help to improve air quality by filtering out pollutants and producing oxygen. They can also help to reduce the urban heat island effect by providing shade and cooling the surrounding area. In addition, gardens can provide habitat for wildlife, such as bees, butterflies, and birds.
The rise of gardening in Pakistan
Pakistanis are embracing gardening with increasing fervour. This newfound passion can be attributed to several factors. A desire for stress relief, in a world filled with daily pressures, promotes gardening as a therapeutic escape, fostering mindfulness and relaxation. Growing vegetables and herbs at home empowers individuals to control the quality and source of their food, promoting self-reliance, which is especially important in urban areas where space is limited. Community gardens become vibrant social hubs, fostering interactions between neighbours and strengthening local communities. Additionally, gardening maintains a rich historical tradition in Pakistan, with historical Mughal gardens standing as testaments to this heritage.
While gardening may have a historical background, there are some in every society who have been carrying the legacy forward with a personal touch. "My father loved gardening, and all of us siblings followed in his footsteps," explained Tufail, a professional gardener and landscape designer. "This instilled in us such a love for nature that we would beautify any space with plants we found." Tufail's journey began with a deep appreciation for the natural world, a seed planted by her father and lovingly cultivated within the family. Like many others, she found solace and joy in transforming any space with the vibrant life of plants. "To hone my skills, I took several courses at Ikebana and then transitioned into professional landscaping," she said.
Asad Latif, a professional chef, similarly developed his passion for gardening by observing his father in their backyard. For 30 years, he has nurtured a love for planting and gardening. "Having a garden or plants at home is important as it uplifts your mood," explained Latif. "When you're stressed, it's a great stress reliever. You can tend to the plants, water them, and take care of them. It energises you, and the pleasant fragrance from the plants is also refreshing and purifies the air." In this field, Tufail thrives on collaboration, ensuring each garden she designs not only reflects current trends but also seamlessly blends with the cultural and environmental context of Pakistan. "I've always enjoyed working in teams," she shared. "That's why every garden I've designedincorporates current trends, considering both our culture and environment. Global influences are also taken into account, especially the growing popularity of vertical gardens due to limited space availability. This trend resonated with me, and I've begun creating stunning vertical gardens myself." This innovative approach, combined with her expertise in Japanese garden design and structural elements, allows her to create unique and captivating landscapes that cater to various preferences.
Tufail’s dedication and creativity exemplifies the rising tide of passionate individuals propelling the Pakistani gardening scene towards a vibrant future. Tufail said, "Comparing the past to the present, it's evident that there's a surge in public interest in gardening. People are recognising its importance, and garden competition participation has soared. Previously, the categories were limited, but now, schools, colleges, offices, institutions, mosques, and residential gardens of various sizes are all represented. Additionally, there's growing awareness and participation in kitchen garden competitions, surprising many with the ease of growing vegetables and herbs at home.
The future of gardening in Pakistan seems bright, with increasing community involvement." Latif, with his passion for both indoor and vegetable plants, echoes this sentiment. He emphasised the simplicity of getting started, "You just need to like it and have some basic planting tools. If you have space in your backyard, you can use that. Or, if you want to make a garden on your balconies, you can buy some pots and plant seeds in them. You don't need anything special; you can start with things you have at home."
Types of gardening in Pakistan
Fueled by a growing public interest in gardening, Pakistan's scene blossoms with new trends and techniques alongside established practices. From intimate kitchen gardens nurturing families to expansive commercial fields bolstering the economy, the diverse tapestry of gardening reflects the evolving needs and aspirations of Pakistani communities. This vibrant landscape fosters both personal self-sufficiency and economic contributions, shaping the nation's green spaces.
Tufail has a passion for both traditional and contemporary designs. Her work embodies the range of gardening practices found in Pakistan, offering a glimpse into how this beloved pastime is evolving with modern trends and needs. Kitchen gardening, the most popular and accessible form of gardening, continues to flourish in Pakistan. Perfect for small spaces, it allows individuals to cultivate vegetables, herbs, and fruits for personal consumption, ensuring a fresh and organic supply right at home.
Kitchen gardens have seen a surge in popularity, driven by their ease and suitability for limited spaces. Iqra Ejaz, a recent convert to kitchen gardening, shared her initial hesitation, "I never tried before because I thought it required a lot of space.” However, she now acknowledges the ease of starting and the motivating factors, she said, "Once you have the right knowledge, the fresh vegetables you harvest encourage you to keep growing more." Latif cultivates some of his key recipe ingredients in his very own kitchen garden. "This passion stemmed from watching my father, who grew various vegetables in our backyard," he shared. "Limited space restricts me to growing only the essentials that thrive in a home kitchen environment, like coriander, mint, and tomatoes." "Growing vegetables at home is surprisingly straightforward," he explained. "Even pots suffice if you have space.
However, diligent care is essential, including regular watering, pest monitoring and removal. It requires time investment, but just 30 minutes a day can keep your plants flourishing and healthy." Indoor planting has also seen a rise in popularity, attracting not only gardening enthusiasts but also those seeking to enhance their home's aesthetics. Whether placed in corners or hung from the ceiling, the purpose remains the same: to beautify the indoor space and improve air quality. Latif shared his expertise on indoor planting: "Plants are the ideal solution for reviving a dull space.
Beyond aesthetics, they can purify the air and, if you choose edible varieties, even provide a delicious snack. However, maintaining a thriving indoor garden isn't always a cakewalk." Tufail, stressing the importance of vegetable gardens, stated, "In our city plagued by pollution, poor water quality, and inflation, I believe everyone in Karachi should consider creating one. While some may perceive it as expensive, the long-term benefits far outweigh the initial investment. Homegrown vegetables offer significant cost savings, improved quality, and even abundance. A single Spanish pepper plant, for instance, can yield enough to share with neighbours." "However, acquiring the necessary knowledge is crucial," she emphasised, "not just for individuals but also for the gardeners they employ. To further promote this practice, the government should initiate educational campaigns through social media and television, empowering everyone to participate."
There are other types of gardening being done in Pakistan which include landscape gardening, vertical gardens and commercial gardening. Tufail is known for her versatility and expertise in landscaping and garden design. “I do commercial gardening on an area as small as 100 yards up to 5000 yards. Japanese gardens hold a special place in my heart. They utilise three key elements: stones, plants, and water. These elements are used prominently to depict nature, creating a therapeutic environment that reduces stress. But other than this I go according to the client's needs. There are many gardens that I have curated that have been nominated in local and international competitions,” she shared.
Tufail eloquently shared her profound perspective on the centuries-old Japanese art of Ikebana. She explained, “Ikebana translates to ‘giving life to flowers’ and symbolises the connection between nature and humanity." She expounded on the symbolism in Ikebana, highlighting its reflection of the intricate balance between heaven, earth, and mankind. Drawing parallels, she elucidated how Ikebana honours our elders: "This art form reflects the relationship between heaven, earth, and mankind.
Additionally, it emphasises the importance of respecting elders, similar to how fresh flowers are displayed above older ones in arrangements." The analogy beautifully encapsulates the essence of Ikebana, portraying how the arrangement of flowers mirrors the familial respect and care for older generations. In her insightful interpretation, Tufail highlights the enduring significance of humanity within this venerable art form.
The world of gardening competitions
The dedication poured into crafting stunning gardens doesn't go unnoticed. Pakistan's burgeoning gardening scene thrives not just on individual passion, but also on the vibrant world of competitions. These events offer a platform for gardeners to showcase their creativity, meticulous care, and artistic vision, with the possibility of recognition and reward acting as a delightful incentive.
The Horticulture Society of Pakistan's (HSP) grand Annual Flower Show sets the stage, while local councils and gardening enthusiasts host their own shows. Whether vying for the best kitchen garden or the grandest park, these competitions transform seeds into showstoppers, celebrating the art and science of Pakistani gardening.
As the co-founder of Florista pk, Tufail has won consecutive 1st prizes from 2021 to 2023 in local competitions. Her achievements include winning Best of Show at the Pakistan National Flower Show in 2020 and participating in over 50 floral competitions worldwide. As a respected figure in the floral arts community, Tufail also serves as a teacher of Ikebana, president of Ikebana International, and vice president of the Floral Art Society of Pakistan, while also contributing as a judge in gardening competitions.
“Over time competition categories have diversified,” Tufail said. “No longer limited to residential gardens, these competitions now embrace a vast array of green spaces, from neighbourhood parks to innovative rooftop gardens,” she remarked.
Educational institutions, factories, and even guesthouses and farmhouses are keen to participate in competitions, showcasing the diverse tapestry of gardening techniques. Special events like Bahria Town's competition, where the landscape of gardening continually evolves, are inspiring platforms.
The vibrant atmosphere of HSP events is alive with excitement and community spirit. "The HSP events span over eight to 10 days, bustling with activity and creativity,” Tufail said. “From the initial judging of gardens to the public viewing of award-winning displays, the event is a celebration of horticultural artistry.”
At the annual agricultural show at Sea View in Karachi, nursery stalls and related products take centre stage. However, it is the community interaction that truly ignites Tufail’s passion. “School visits provide an opportunity for students to immerse themselves in the world of gardening, sparking curiosity and fostering a love for green spaces,” she explained. “With clubs and societies gathering to share inspiration and knowledge, these events become a catalyst for learning and growth, igniting a newfound appreciation for the art of gardening among visitors of all ages.”
"Modern landscaping trends focus on contemporary design, incorporating globally popular styles while maintaining a connection to nature," said Tufail. She emphasized the understanding of design principles such as space, balance, and texture. While DIY elements like handmade features and artificial waterfalls are embraced, she stressed the importance of coherence within the overall theme. Her guidance inspires a thoughtful approach to modern garden design, blending innovation with timeless beauty.
As a competition judge, Tufail outlined a meticulous evaluation process. "We first assess the layout and planning followed by the originality and creativity displayed," she explained. “Attention is then directed towards the variety and quality of both annual and perennial plants, considering factors such as seasonal blooms. Shrubs, flowers, and ornamental trees are scrutinized for their diversity, grouping, and health within the garden's setting. The condition of the lawn, including grass quality and general health, is carefully examined. The garden features such as water bodies, arches, and pathways are noted, along with their cleanliness and maintenance.” The garden's overall impression upon entry is taken into consideration along with its cleanliness and aesthetics. “Each criterion is assigned marks, with a score above 85 warranting the first prize, followed by second and third place respectively,” Tufail explained.
Looking ahead
The future of gardening in Pakistan appears promising, with an increasing number of individuals showing interest in cultivating green spaces. However, to propel this movement forward and attain global recognition, a collective effort towards raising awareness is essential. Presently, gardening and landscaping services are predominantly accessible only to the affluent, leaving a gap in knowledge and appreciation among the wider populace. Addressing this gap requires proactive measures, starting with the integration of gardening education into the national curriculum. By instilling fundamental gardening skills in students and fostering a deeper understanding of environmental stewardship, we can sow the seeds for a greener, more sustainable future.
Bridging the gap in gardening knowledge and accessibility is imperative for the growth of this movement. “By introducing gardening education in schools and providing opportunities for hands-on learning, we can empower individuals across all socioeconomic backgrounds to embrace gardening as a source of joy, sustenance, and environmental stewardship. Moreover, initiatives to establish public parks and communal green spaces can further enrich our urban landscapes, promoting community cohesion and fostering a culture of appreciation for nature's bounty,” Tufail adds.
“Parks offer several advantages. They provide fresh air, promote community engagement, and enable neighbours to connect and support one another. Individuals with a passion for gardening can share their experiences and cultivate a sense of shared purpose,” she said.
As the passion for nurturing green spaces continues to blossom, cultivating a wider appreciation for this practice is paramount. By implementing educational initiatives in schools, establishing accessible green spaces, and fostering community involvement, Pakistan can solidify its position on the global horticultural map. As more individuals embrace the joys and benefits of gardening, the collective efforts will weave a tapestry of vibrant green spaces, enriching the environment and the lives of the communities they serve.