For gardening enthusiasts, nurturing flowers, vegetables, and plants into something beautiful and/or edible is an incredibly rewarding experience. Studies show growing plants has a positive effect on the air we breathe and can have a positive effect on our mood and behavior.

April showers bring May flowers, and we couldn’t be happier to highlight the green thumbs amongst us at ModSquad. We asked our resident gardeners to share a bit about what they love about their hobby and perhaps tell us their proudest gardening moments. From prized roses to houseplants, there are quite a few folks here who find joy in getting their hands dirty.

“I love seeing my plants grow and develop, with my coaxing, and learning from them what does and does not help them. As a novice gardener last year, I was proud that anything came up at all!”
— Ellen B., Oregon

“I love gardening because it puts me in the moment and allows me to unplug. I grew a 10-foot-tall tomato in a square-foot garden. Super fun to see how many vegetables you can cram into a little space and still thrive. Zucchini is not my friend.”
— Kenny P., California

“At our last house, we didn’t have a lot of flowers. Now we seem to have something blooming year-round! I’m most proud of the rose bushes. My wife is mostly the one interested in the garden. But for me, it’s very relaxing to be able to sit out on the back porch with a glass of wine and a good book and just disconnect, even if it’s for a short time.”
— Rich W., California

“I live alone and I spend a lot of time in my apartment, so I love having something alive to take care of and seeing my plants happy when I give them attention. I get super proud whenever my orchid’s flowers start blooming.”
— Debora F., Brazil

“Gardening is so relaxing and rewarding. Nothing beats being able to harvest and eat something that you’ve grown. One year I had an amazing run of tomatoes! There were so many. I grew the plants from seed and had enough to give to friends, family, and neighbors!”
— Jemimah S., Georgia

“I like gardening with my companion and taking care of those beautiful plants! I like talking to them and making sure they’re nice and cozy. My favorite part is when they reward the care we give them and we use them for cooking and bathing. I also love naming my plants. I’m very proud of my Japanese Maple Tree named Mr. Terrien. It’s still a baby, but it’s becoming strong!”
— Justine L., Japan

“Gardening relaxes me. I grow ornamental plants like succulents, unusual ferns, and edible herbs and veggies. I especially enjoy cooking a meal with veggies that I grew or using fresh herbs from my garden to finish a dish. I don’t have a big yard or much space, so I try to make the best use of the space I have. Last summer my dragon fruit succulent, which I’ve had for a few years, finally got big enough to bloom and fruit. That was a pretty major accomplishment for me.”
— Rabbit K., California

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