From Frontyard To Backyard Gardening, William Tabuya Paves The Way In Farming For Future

William Tabuya is known as a former journalist and media person.

But lesser known to many is the fact that he is an avid gardener and has created a sanctuary of vegetables at his home in Wakanisila, Kubukawa Road, in Nasinu.

There’s the typical backyard and front yard gardening. And now with the COVID-19 crisis and Government’s assistance in the Home Gardening initiative, he’s used all possible vessels, even the electric frying pan that’s ready to go to the landfill, to expand this skill.

He managed to get 16 seedlings from the Ministry of Agriculture’s Koroinivia Research Station last month for pot planting, thanks to the initiative.

“We have planted cucumber, cow pea, chilli, French bean, long bean, tomato, okra, methi, sarso and eggplant,” Mr Tabuya said.

Germinating seedlings in pot plants. Photo: William Tabuya

He said they were also doing gardening on raised plots and gardens even at night under a floodlight.

“Additionally, we’ve planted bele, rourou, bongo chilli, pineapple, aloe vera, lemon grass, garlic, mint, pumpkin, water melon, vudi, banana and tubua are the plantings that I have gardened myself.”

Mr Tabuya said he used to garden before the pandemic, from 9.30pm to 11pm.

“During pandemic, I still garden until 7.30pm.”

Lessons

Mr Tabuya, who is now working from home because of COVID-19 measures, says he’s improved his skills from countries like China and Italy and from DIY (do-it-yourself) videos.

“We found the similarity that they garden a lot and this is very helpful during pandemic times,” Mr Tabuya said.

He said home gardening kept them busy at home since the school holidays had been extended.

“We keep a daily routine to ensure the garden is looked after,” he said.

“This is also a way of healthy living and good workout for everyone.”

He said they won’t have to buy vegetables anymore where they spent $30 every fortnight.

“Our neighbors also started with backyard gardening.

“There are plenty of good ideas on You Tube we can watch and learn from,” Mr Tabuya said.

The Ministry distributes free seedlings at its Raiwaqa and Koronivia offices.

Edited by Ranoba Baoa

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