The Joy of Seasons: A Gardening Journey from Puttur-India to Toronto-Canada

  •   Fri, Apr 04 2025
  •   By Lovina D’Souza

April 4, 2025

When I lived in India, I didn’t really pay attention to the changing seasons. The concept of spring, summer, autumn/fall, and winter blended into the rhythm of daily life. They passed by without much thought, as life in Puttur, where I grew up, continued its steady pace. But since moving to Canada, each season has taken on a new meaning, especially when it comes to gardening.

As it starts getting cold in Canada around September and October each year, most plants need to be brought indoors and it becomes ideal to find a sunny window for the plants to continue growing well in our heated homes or offices. Indoor gardening, while a bit of a challenge, has become an essential part of life in Canada especially for those who love gardening.

 

 

 

The most exciting of all the seasons is undoubtedly spring. After the long, harsh winter, snowfall and the hibernation that accompanies it, spring in the month of March feels like a grand awakening. There’s something truly magical about seeing nature come alive again. The sight of even a single bloom feels like a celebration of life’s return. It is a moment of joy, a promise of warmth and growth after the stillness of winter.

One of the most meaningful symbols of renewal is an orchid, given to my mummy Emilda for her 95th birthday in 2021. My mummy passed away the following year, but year after year, that orchid has continued to bloom each spring. The simple act of watering it here and there has been my only effort, yet, each bloom feels like a tribute to my mom and a reminder of the beautiful bond we shared. Watching the orchid bloom fills my heart with joy with my Mummy’s memories and her love for gardening.

Similarly, another gift, a single leaf from a friend, has turned into a thriving plant in my home. The little branch has grown steadily, and watching it flourish has become another source of joy. Despite the challenges of maintaining an indoor garden through the cold winter months, the rewards these plants bring are immeasurable.

Gardening, whether indoors or out, has become a way for me to stay connected to the world around me, to my roots, and to my loved ones. As the days grow longer and the warmth of spring and summer touches the earth, the plants and nature not only bring colour and beauty, they bring together neighbours, family and friends building new friendships and bonding in our new homeland Canada. We find the true essence of home, no matter where we are. 

The sun, the rain and changing seasons which I never thought about much growing up in Puttur, India, I now appreciate as precious gifts. Each new season offers the gift of renewal, both for nature and for our hearts. Even the dry flowers remind that beauty exists at every stage of life. I am grateful to my mother for inspiring my love for gardening, a passion she carried with her from Puttur to Canada.

Happy gardening everyone and may your life be filled with joys of changing seasons wherever you are.

 

 

 
By Lovina D’Souza
Lovina D’Souza, is a Canadian writer and photographer from Puttur, India. With her vibrant personality, shaped by her cultural heritage and diverse passions - photography, writing, catering and travelling, Lovina captures life’s precious moments.
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Comment on this article

  • Hilda percy, Dubai

    Fri, Apr 04 2025

    Nice article Laveena. We saw ur garden. God bless u and thanks for ur helping nature.

  • Roshan Dsouza, Kinnigoli Mangalore

    Fri, Apr 04 2025

    Good article. Wherever we Indians live, we always remember our mother country and its a treasure for us.


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