Witnessing New Growth
Watching plants sprout and establish roots brings one of gardening’s greatest joys. However, the journey is not always easy. Harsh conditions can kill plants, especially those that are rare or hard to acquire, often before you can collect their seeds or propagate new shoots.
Hope After Loss
Despite these challenges, gardening often inspires hope. Sometimes, plants that seemed lost unexpectedly reappear, as if they return from the dead. For example, our senna plants from Thailand died three years ago, before we could harvest their seeds. More recently, we watched the Veldt grape (Cissus quadrangularis) wither away.
Unexpected Returns
Yet, both plants surprised us with their comebacks. The senna and Veldt grape pushed up new growth in different parts of the garden. Now, the senna is producing seed pods that are drying on their stems. The Veldt grape has grown so vigorously that we can take cuttings for propagation.
Uses and Benefits
Senna acts as an osmotic laxative and, as a legume, adds beauty to the garden. Likewise, gardeners in Ayurveda value the Veldt grape for managing musculoskeletal disorders and relieving pain. You can also add its leaves to salads and curries, or use its stems for chutney and chips. As a member of the Vitaceae family—the same family as true grapes—the Veldt grape offers both ornamental value and edible uses.
The Wonders of Gardening
In conclusion, gardening always offers pleasant surprises. Something unexpected and delightful is always happening among the plants.
#LoveHomeGrown.
