Tema-Ghana, Jan. 16, MNN – Scores of Horticulturists in the Tema enclave have expressed concern about the negative interactions between humans and the environment, especially the way plants are treated.
The gardeners stressed that in the celestial hierarchy of creation, human beings were the last of all the created things; in the native ways of knowledge, plants comes first while humans are the younger brothers of creation, therefore the need to pay good attention to all living things.
Mr. Joseph Atanga who operates a garden at Tema Community Five regretted that in most Ghanaian communities’ plants and flowers are not offered the right recognition except when needed for decorative purposes.
He revealed that plants hold human beliefs, history, and relationships; “my finances have always been met because of my bond with crops and plants. The belief I hold that God is going to bless me through catering for his creation has been satisfactory”.
The flower growers said humans and plant species hold a long history and are dependent on each other for survival.
Mr Atanga who has been in the horticulture business for 23 years said people should go beyond needing plants for beautification only and called for the systematic study of the behaviour of plants and animals which he said provides knowledge worth emulating.
“Plants teach you how to cater for your family. Being attentive to their wellbeing, and the daily care one give to it is similar to the care all living things need to grow,” he said.
Mr Patrick Gyan who is into landscaping said apart from foreigners who are mostly able to keep plants growing for many years, some Ghanaians are unable to do that.
He said gardeners are cheated often due to people’s negative attitude and perception toward plants and disregard for the horticulture industry.
He said, as part of the agreement when landscaping, half payment is made and the other half is fulfilled after plants start to grow but most often they are not paid after completing their part.
Mr. Romanus Awuni who grows food crops and flowers called on the public to give proper treatment to plants, revealing that “the secrets to some plants can’t be taught but through engagement with it”.
He said the branches of plants like a Desert Rose and King of Philip flowers can be planted.
The gardeners praised individuals who honour their dead persons by planting a tree or flower at the graveside but encourage them to nurture the plants beyond the funeral as many abandoned them afterward.
Players in the horticulture sector appealed to the public to show interest in vegetation to protect the climate and life.
