Introduction: Sunday Gardening in Japan
On a beautiful Sunday, I decided to plant some vegetables for the summer on my balcony. Gardening on a small scale on balconies in Japan, especially in urban areas, has become quite popular. Making green curtains to avoid the summer heat is particularly trendy this season. One of the famous vegetables in Japan is Goya (Momordica charantia). Goya is a member of the cucumber family and is grown mainly on the southern island of Japan, Okinawa. Goya not only serves as a green curtain but is also a source of food. Although it has a bitter taste, it is nutritious and beneficial for summer consumption.
Summer Vegetables and Cress
Aside from Goya, I also planted other summer vegetables like tomatoes, eggplants, and cress. While researching how to grow cress, I stumbled upon some interesting facts. Herbs such as mint and cress have become increasingly popular in recent years in Japan, and they are often planted in gardens. However, due to their high reproductive capacity, they can outcompete surrounding plants and spread uncontrollably. Some municipalities even target specific herbs for eradication. Knowing this, I quickly transferred my cress from the same pot as my other vegetables to a separate container.
European Herbs in Japan
About 30 years ago, herbs were not as popular in Japan as they are now. They were sometimes used in recipes, but they were often thought of as strong-smelling weeds not found in nearby supermarkets. My mother, for example, disliked them because of their scent. However, in recent decades, they have become increasingly popular, and they are now commonly used in recipes. Even local supermarkets carry various types of dried herbs, such as basil, thyme, and bay leaves. Japanese herbs such as scallions, perilla, and shiso are still popular, and they provide a refreshing flavor during the hot summer months. Moreover, in recent years, a previously unpopular herb in Japan, cilantro, has gained immense popularity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Sunday gardening can be a wonderful way to connect with nature and take a break from work, even on a small scale like balcony gardening. Not only can you grow popular herbs, but also a variety of vegetables and flowers. While some plants require more attention than others, the satisfaction of watching them grow and harvesting your own produce is truly rewarding. With a bit of research and care, anyone can enjoy the benefits of gardening. So why not give it a try this spring?
