Gardening Tips for Beginners

(Updated Version)

Not sure how to start or where to begin your gardening journey? Don’t worry! With over 20 years of experience, I’m here to guide you step by step. Gardening doesn’t have to be overwhelming - it’s all about keeping it simple and fun. In this article, we’ll focus on gardening on the ground, leaving aside container gardening for the time being. Let’s dig in.

 

Where to Plant
Start by identifying a plot of land within your compound. Even a small area, like the patch of land near your gate, can work wonders. Consider how much space you have and choose a location that gets enough sunlight. Accessibility for watering and maintenance is key - ensure it’s easy to reach and work with.

 

Cleaning Up
Before planting, clear the area thoroughly. Remove weeds, rocks, and debris from both the surface and below the soil. A clean foundation is essential for healthier plants and makes planting easier. Remember, the larger the plot, the more time it will take to prepare, so start small if you’re a beginner.

Soil Matters

Examine the soil type in your chosen area. In Malaysia, clay soil is common but tends to harden quickly, especially in hot weather. If the soil is too hard, water won’t penetrate deeply, which can hinder plant growth. Consider enhancing the soil by mixing in black soil or compost. Black soil not only improves moisture retention but also adds an attractive contrast when paired with lush green plants.

 

Essential Tools
Equip yourself with the basics:

A hand trowel for planting and digging.

Pruning shears for trimming plants.

Garden gloves for protection and comfort.

A watering can for precise watering.

Start with these essentials and expand your toolkit as needed. For example, a small shovel and soil moisture meter can be helpful once you’re more experienced.

Protection and Safety

Always wear gardening gloves - they protect your hands from dirt, thorns, and insects. Consider gardening boots if you’re working on uneven or rocky ground. If you’re out in the sun for long hours, a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen are must-haves for your safety.

 

What to Plant
Choose plants suited to your climate and environment. As a beginner, focus on low-maintenance options. Those grow easily and are satisfying to nurture. Avoid  ambitious choices to start; small successes will build your confidence as you grow your green thumb.

 

Learning Along the Way
Gardening is an ongoing learning experience. Read books, explore online resources, or join free gardening workshops if available. Don’t hesitate to ask for advice at local nurseries - most staff are happy to share tips. Every plant you grow teaches you something new, making the journey all the more rewarding.

Dedication and Passion

Gardening requires time, effort, and a love for the process. Be prepared to get sweaty and dirty - it’s part of the experience. Dedication and passion will help you enjoy the challenges and rewards that come with nurturing your own green haven.

 

Happy gardening. In the next article, we will dwell into other matters on gardening.

(Ms. Nava is a dynamic individual in her 60s, leading yoga sessions at Nava's Zen while also embracing her passion for gardening through Zen Blooming. With credentials in gardening and extensive experience, she cultivates a serene environment that reflects her commitment to Zen, inspiring others to find balance and tranquility in their lives). 

 

Basic Skincare Tips: Glowing Healthy Skin

Let’s be real - skin care starts with taking a good look at the skin on your face. Forget the layers of makeup and skincare for a moment. What’s beneath? The bare skin in the mirror reflects how you care for yourself. Let’s talk basic skincare tips to help that face of yours glow with freshness, vitality, and confidence.

Hands Off, Please.

First things first - always wash your hands before touching your face. If you don’t, you’re transferring dirt, oils, and germs right onto your skin. No wonder it feels dull, lifeless, or even breaks out. Clean hands = clean skin. Simple, but vital.

Pineapple Salted Fish Curry & Pineapple Recipe

I’m the ultimate foodie - always on the hunt for new flavors and never one to shy away from a culinary adventure (SZECHUAN LONG BEANS). From five-star restaurants to roadside stalls, you’ll find me indulging in just about anything. There's no "mudguard" mentality here; I'll eat wherever and whatever catches my fancy. But there’s a downside to this passion: the people in my life are fussy eaters with endless restrictions. “I don’t like this, “I can’t eat that,” and “Street food? No way!” - you get the idea.

Eating out with them is like replaying the same old song at the same eateries, ordering the same dishes. It’s become so monotonous that I’ve resorted to dining solo. Even my husband, bless him, has a laundry list of limitations - except when it comes to Indian food. Put a plate of curries in front of him, and he’s all smiles. It took me years to expand his culinary horizons (TOM YAM FISH), and while he’s gotten better, he’s still pretty reluctant to try new things. The funniest part? These folks won’t even try something before deciding they don’t like it. Funny, right?

Blossoming Passion: A Journey of Gardening, Learning, and Perseverance

Step into the tranquil beginnings of my journey in Kota Kemuning two decades ago, where amidst the calm, a yearning for vitality stirred. With my spouse often away, I craved solace and purpose. Balancing academia and domesticity, the idea of crafting a blog and delving into culinary ventures beckoned.

 

Yet, it was the sight of the barren plot outside my home that ignited an insatiable desire for lush greenery. Having only dabbled in indoor plants before, the notion of gardening felt foreign. However, the vast potential of this newfound space sparked an intense passion within me.

Versatile Long Beans: Szechuan, Basic, & Egg Stir-Fry

A couple of years ago, I grew long beans, but unfortunately, their lifespan is only about 4 months, so you need to replant them to continue harvesting. I didn't get around to replanting them back then, but now I've started growing them again. The plants are slowly coming up, and I'm hopeful for a good harvest for my cooking. In the meantime, I buy them, and they are quite affordable (VEGETARIAN TOFU RENDANG). Long beans are a favorite in my household.

I cook them in Indian style (VEGETARIAN DEVIL/DEBEL CURRY), but for a quick Chinese-style dish, stir-frying is the way to go. This recipe is quite simple, and as someone who cooks Chinese dishes regularly, I always keep peanut oil, sesame oil, and soy sauce on hand. Szechuan peppercorns, available at Chinese grocers, also last a long time and should be stored in the fridge.

L'Oréal Paris Glycolic Bright Glowing Day Cream SPF17 Review

Difference Between Day Cream and Night Cream
Understanding the difference between day and night creams is key to choosing the right product for your skin’s needs. Day creams are typically designed with SPF and antioxidants to protect against sun damage and pollution. They’re lightweight, quickly absorbed, and provide hydration without leaving a greasy finish.

Night creams, on the other hand, are richer and focus on repairing and nourishing your skin. They often contain ingredients like retinol and peptides to restore and rejuvenate your skin overnight, without SPF since sun protection is unnecessary during sleep.

Malaysian Wildboar Curry/Kattu Pandi Kulambu

(Updated Version)

It’s always amusing, or maybe just expected, that among a group of ten Indians, only one or two might indulge in pork. It doesn’t exactly ruffle my feathers, but dining out with them can be quite the adventure, as they tend to steer clear of any place serving pork dishes. This tendency is especially strong among the older crowd, although the younger generation is more open to pork.

 

Interestingly, those who shy away from pork (CHINESE PORK CHOPS RECIPES) often have a hard time explaining why. Some claim it's because pork is “unclean,” others cite religious reasons, and many just stick to what their parents did, continuing a long-standing tradition. Indians generally prefer the familiar over the exotic, which is a bit of a contrast to my own adventurous palate. Dining out with them often involves a careful check of their preferences and, amusingly, a lot of fuss over trivial matters, even though they brag about dining at Jamie Oliver’s or Gordon Ramsay’s spots. Oh, the irony.

Rotkohl (German Red Cabbage): A Timeless Culinary Tradition

I've dined at several exclusive German restaurants, where the cost is a bit steep, but worth it for an occasional indulgence. My favorite dishes are the German sausages and pork knuckles (CHINESE HERBAL PORK SOUP), typically served with potato salad, a fresh salad, and either Rotkohl (braised red cabbage), Weißkohl (fermented green or white cabbage), or Sauerkraut (sautéed green or white cabbage). I sometimes buy German sausages to grill at home, pairing them with crouton salad (TURKISH CARROT YOGURT SALAD), cheese, and whatever sauce I have on hand.

Tantalizing Tomyam Fish: A Flavor Explosion

Tomyam - a name that resonates with food lovers worldwide, synonymous with the bold, unmistakable flavors of Thai cuisine. It's a culinary journey I've savored for years, honing my skills after exploring every nook and cranny of Thailand's diverse gastronomic landscape.

 

From the bustling streetside stalls to the refined elegance of upscale eateries, Thailand's culinary scene offers a spectrum of delights. Yet, amidst the array of options, one dish stands out - Tomyam. Its fiery spiciness can be a challenge to stomach at times, but oh, the rewards are worth it.

Malay Heritage Nasi Kunyit: Golden Turmeric Rice

While Indian cuisine often relies on turmeric powder, Malay dishes make use of fresh turmeric. Fresh turmeric is the raw form of the spice, which is later dried and ground into powder for Indian recipes. (SPINACH TURMERIC). The flavor and aroma of fresh turmeric differ significantly from its powdered counterpart. Fresh turmeric imparts a bright, earthy, and peppery taste with a hint of ginger, while turmeric powder offers a more concentrated, warm, and slightly bitter flavor. Fresh turmeric’s aroma is vibrant and pungent with a subtle citrusy note, whereas the powder has a deeper, more intense earthy scent (VEGETARIAN TOFU RENDANG).

Chandigarh, North India - Urban Serenity & Marvels

From Kullu Manali (KULLU MANALI MAJESTY) to Chandigarh. India's first planned city, Chandigarh stands as a testament to modern urban design and efficiency. Renowned for its well-organized sectors, lush greenery, and wide avenues, Chandigarh blends functionality with aesthetic charm. Designed by Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier in the 1950s, the city boasts clean, tree-lined streets, serene parks, and distinctive architecture. Chandigarh serves as the capital of both Punjab and Haryana states, fostering a vibrant cultural scene alongside its administrative importance. As a model of sustainable urban living (HOKKAIDO WINTER TIME), Chandigarh continues to offer a tranquil yet dynamic environment (SURAKARTA HEARTBEAT & BOROBUDUR ETERNAL LEGEND). 

During the six-hour journey, we encountered unexpected challenges. Several tour members fell ill with stomach upset, vomiting, nausea, and fever. Despite their boasts of extensive travel experience across India, they were unprepared for the winding mountain roads, plus, I reckon it’s the effects of late-night meals followed by over-eating again at breakfast buffet. This lack of foresight led to unscheduled stops for fresh air and medical assistance, disrupting the journey. Some had to visit the doctor while others waited on the coach.

Kullu Manali - Experiencing Himalayan Majesty

Next on our itinerary was Kullu Manali (SHIMLA ESSENCE OF HIMALAYSAN GEM). After a comfort break and lunch, we arrived at the Westin Hotel and Resort in Manali past 10 PM. Declining the late dinner, I headed straight to my room and was impressed by its cleanliness and comfort. A refreshing shower marked the end of my day before bedtime. The buffet breakfast the next morning wasn’t remarkable but provided the necessary fuel for our activities at Rohtang Pass (HOKKAIDO WINTER LUST).

Rohtang Pass, nestled in the majestic Himalayas at an altitude of about 3,978 meters, holds significant historical (VARANASI SACRED GANGES) and geographical importance. It has served as a crucial trade route since ancient times, connecting the lush Kullu Valley to the arid Lahaul and Spiti Valleys. The name Rohtang translates to "pile of corpses" due to its challenging terrain and unpredictable weather, which historically made it a difficult passage. Today, Rohtang Pass offers breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and alpine meadows.

Shimla, North India: Essence of the Himalayan Gem

Once I dismounted from the horse (SHIMLA -  CAPTURING NATURE'S LOVE), the guide shared his number for arranging the ride back down the hill. After waiting for ten minutes and seeing no sign of the rest of my tour group who had opted for the ride, I decided not to wait any longer. I paid the entrance fee and began my trek up the uneven path.

As I ascended, the challenge became evident - each step tested my endurance and leg strength. Halfway through, I found myself questioning whether to push forward or turn back. Despite the struggle, I continued, passing stalls selling various local products on both sides of the path (PRETORIA MOMENTS & CAPE TOWN MAGIC). 

While my interest in shopping wasn't particularly high, the allure of local bites and drinks was hard to resist. However, observing food vendors handling items without gloves in such a dusty environment gave me pause. The lack of covering for the food at these stalls added to my concern.

My walk eventually brought me to what seemed like the viewpoint (KATAGARAMA SRI LANKA) at Mahasu Peak, where I hoped to catch an overview of Kufri or even Shimla. However, the area was packed with locals who showed no signs of moving. Waiting for my turn seemed futile, especially considering the time constraint to rejoin my tour group, so I decided to return to where my guide was supposed to meet me.

 

After waiting for 20 minutes with no response to my calls, he finally appeared, casually taking photos as I called the horse "Darling." He corrected me, revealing the horse's name as "Raku." Oh, the innocence of it all! I thanked him profusely with a namaskar and a token before we embarked on the ride downhill.

Back in the van, we switched vehicles midway and eventually reached Jakhu Road by 4:30 pm, missing out on visiting the Shri Hanuman Mandir and Christ Church as per our itinerary. Despite this, hunger was gnawing at me after climbing steep steps, and all we could find was Cafe Under Tree. Quite a surprise! Famished, we indulged in a mix of Western and Indian vegetarian dishes - Mushroom Fried Rice, Vegetarian Biryani, and Manchurian Kofta - all delicious and reasonably priced.

Satiated, we returned to the hotel where the experience of bucket bathing added a nostalgic touch to our day. Seated on a stool, filling the bucket and using the scoop brought back memories of simpler times, reminiscent of my childhood in Jalan Chan Ah Thong Brickfields government quarters. A classic way to end my adventurous day in Shimla.

Shimla - Capturing Nature's Love

Waking up (UTTAR PRADESH), oh-my! I realize that I am in Shimla. Shimla is like a love name for me, just like how I felt when I was in Jaipur and also Agra. Shimla, nestled in the serene hills of Himachal Pradesh, holds significant historical importance as the former summer capital of British India. Established in the early 19th century, it served as a pivotal center of colonial administration and cultural exchange, reflecting the grandeur of Victorian architecture and British influence. Today, Shimla stands as a testament to its storied past, attracting visitors with its cool climate, panoramic vistas of the Himalayas, and a blend of colonial charm with vibrant local culture. Its enduring appeal lies not only in its historical significance but also in its role as a picturesque retreat (SURAKARTA HEARTBEAT & BOROBUDUR ETERNAL LEGEND). 

Uttar Pradesh & Haryana: Sacred Legends of North India

Back to India, this time to explore Shimla and Chandigarh. On another solo trip, I joined a tour group with a mix of familiar faces, and new acquaintances for a 7-day, 6-night adventure. The journey began in New Delhi, where I finally hit the bed in my room past 1 AM. By 8:30 AM the next morning, we were on our way to Shimla, embarking on an almost 10-hour road journey. Leaving New Delhi on a busy Saturday, we faced peak weekend traffic, taking at least an hour to get onto the roads leading to Shimla. (HOKKAIDO WANDERLUST & GALLE SPOTS).

About two and a half hours later, we stopped for a comfort break at Mama Yadav, Shiva Dhaba in Babugarh, Uttar Pradesh, which was bustling with people. After a quick visit to the loo, I opted for a fresh, hot tea in a clay cup instead of sitting down to eat. The experience of watching the tea being poured into the clay pot made me grin, and the taste was delightful, transporting me to an ancient time

Unable to resist, I also indulged in some Paan. I have a true weakness for Paan, not just for the traditional variety but for the modern Paan, which has evolved to include innovative ingredients like chocolate, fruit syrups, and even ice cream, making it a trendy and versatile treat. It's such a delight, and if you come this far and don’t try Paan, what a waste.

Continuing our journey, we reached Jyotisar Temple in the Kurukshetra district of Uttar Pradesh, renowned as the site where Lord Krishna delivered the Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna, a pivotal moment in the Mahabharata epic. Surrounded by tranquil landscapes and featuring a sacred Banyan tree where the divine discourse is believed to have occurred, the temple also includes a marble chariot symbolizing Krishna and Arjuna's conversation.

Having studied the Bhagavad Gita extensively, I felt a deep connection to the profound teachings shared in this sacred place. The dialogue between Krishna and Arjuna, addressing duty, righteousness, and life's essence, resonated profoundly as I explored the temple grounds, prayed, and sat beneath the Banyan tree. Reflecting on my visit, Jyotisar Temple not only provided a spiritual experience but also prompted introspection on the principles that Hindus cherish and strive to embody.

Next, we visited Bhishma Kund in Narkatari, Haryana, a site steeped in historical and religious significance from the Mahabharata. Legend has it that this is where Arjuna pierced the earth with an arrow to provide water for Bhishma Pitamah, who lay wounded on a bed of arrows during the Kurukshetra battle. The sacred water body formed by Arjuna's arrow symbolizes the profound respect and bond between these legendary warriors. For me, as someone deeply fascinated by the Mahabharata, experiencing the history of Bhishma Kund in Narkatari was truly meaningful.

Stopping for lunch at Mannat Haveli in Haryana, the bustling atmosphere saw our group eagerly ordering food. I opted for "Raj Kachori," a popular Indian chaat consisting of a crispy fried shell filled with potatoes, boiled moong dal, yogurt, spices, and chutney - a hearty and flavorful choice. Arriving at our Shimla hotel around 10 PM, I decided to skip dinner, mindful of the late-night meals that often accompany travel and lead to unwanted weight gain. Retreating to my room, I unpacked, showered, and called it a night. 

Portuguese Devil/Debil Curry: Bold Punch of Eurasian Spice

Devils are in play and in power when it comes to Portuguese Devil or Debil Curry (EURASIAN PINEAPPLE SALTED FISH CURRY). Why the name? Well, let’s just say the truth is stranger than fiction. As someone who’s often labeled a “devil” by the more religiously inclined Indian women, I’ve earned that nickname for being lively, outspoken, and keeping things spicy in my 60s - unlike those who spend their days praying, banging their heads on the temple floor, and chanting mantras. I’m definitely not in that “holier-than-thou” crowd. So, maybe the curry is named after me, the Devil Ms. Nava! Weeeeeee!

But if you’re genuinely curious about why it’s called Devil or Debil Curry, I think it’s all about the fiery spices and bold ingredients that give it its kick (PADA SALTED FISH PICKLE). The flavor profile is nothing short of explosive, and the vibrant red hue might just be the devil's favorite color - hot, bold, and totally eye-catching. Over the years, I’ve whipped up various versions of Portuguese Devil Curry - prawn, mutton, chicken - and now, I’m bringing you my latest creation: a vegetarian version. Has anyone else tried a veggie Devil Curry? Who cares! I didn’t bother to check. Real recipe creators don’t snoop on others’ recipes.