If 2025 taught me anything, it’s that a garden can make you laugh, cry, do a happy garden dance… and occasionally threaten to migrate somewhere with no weeds, no pests, and preferably no surprises. But when I look back, this little patch of green brought me more joy, wonder, and wicked antics than I ever expected — and I wouldn’t trade a single moment.
My Hyacinth Bean, locally known as Seime, with a thick mass of foliage and pods now starting to develop Credit : Shamela Rambadan
1. A Year That Kept Me on My Toes
The year didn’t ease in gently — it rushed through like a hummingbird that discovered espresso.
Between sudden dry spells and equally sudden downpours, gardening in the Caribbean once again reminded me that Mother Nature absolutely refuses to share her script.
Still, the garden pressed on… and so did I.
2. Garden Wins That Made My Heart Sing
Oh, the high points were sweet.
There was the okra that grew long enough to apply for its own ID card.
The cherry harvest that turned branches into little red lanterns.
And the mornings when a new bloom or fresh pod greeted me before the sun was fully awake — the perfect excuse for a happy garden dance.
These were the moments that filled me with pure gratitude.
Photos:
The Extra long okra- 12 inches!
3. The “Well… That Happened” Moments
Of course, no garden year is complete without mischief.
Enter the leaf-footed gang: bold, disrespectful, and behaving like they were paying mortgage.
And then there were the plants that simply refused to cooperate, no matter how many pep talks, prayers, or soil amendments I threw their way.
But every flop came with a laugh, a lesson, or at least a good story for tea time.
4. New Things I Tried This Year
2025 had me experimenting like a backyard scientist.
New varieties, new techniques, new “Why not? Let’s see what happens.” moments.
Some were triumphs (long-pod okras, I’m looking at you).
Some were decent.
And some… will quietly retire before 2026 arrives.
That’s the beauty of gardening — every season lets us start fresh.
Strawberry plants started from seeds
5. Three Lessons the Garden Taught Me in 2025
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Patience isn’t optional — it’s fertilizer.
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Deep watering solves more problems than half the internet.
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Pests don’t pay rent but behave like they own the property.
Simple. True. Unarguable.
6. Plants That Stole the Spotlight
Some crops decided to show off this year.
The sorrel was so generous I’m now a part-time harvester.
The passionfruit vines grew with ambition.
And the citrus — the Tango oranges and Murcott mandarins — delivered sunshine with every peel.
For my temperate readers: think tomatoes, berries, and herbs as your garden divas.
Photos:
7. Behind the Scenes: The Grey-Haired Gardener at Work
This year was full of early-morning weeding missions, sunset watering sessions, and countless “Let me just check one plant” detours that somehow turned into mini tours.
One of my favourite memories? Sharing the bounty — sorrel, citrus, cherries — with friends and family. There’s a special joy in watching someone’s face light up when you hand them something grown with love (and maybe a little sweat).
8. Wrapping Up With Gratitude
I’m ending the year with full hands and a thankful heart.
This garden continues to teach, humble, and delight me — and I’m deeply grateful for everyone who follows along, learns with me, and brings their own stories to this space.
9. A Sneak Peek at 2026
Without giving too much away…
New crops, fresh experiments, and a project or two are quietly sprouting behind the scenes. Stay tuned — January’s post will plant the first seeds for the new year.
10. Join the Conversation
What was your favourite garden moment of 2025?
Share it with me — I love hearing your stories!
Happy Gardening
The Grey Haired Gardener
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