Nadezhda, born in 1971, lives with her 12-year-old son and rents a house. Her passion for gardening began in childhood when she was amazed at how magnificent flowers grow from a tiny seed.
“It all started in my youth and my love for plants. I was enchanted by the magic of planting seeds and watching them turn into beautiful flowers. At that time, I lived with my parents and could only experiment with houseplants. I managed to grow any seed by simply planting it in the ground. Every summer, I spent time at my grandmother's garden, helping to gather berries and fruits, but I didn't have the opportunity to plant anything. After I moved, I always dreamed of having my own house with a garden to grow my favorite plants,” she shares.
Her garden features many bulbous plants, which hold a special place.
“I adore bulbous plants: tulips, daffodils, lilies, hyacinths, crocuses, and fritillaries. These perennial plants require little care and delight me with their increasing beauty every year. I also have many other plants that bloom at different times. Peonies hold a special place in my heart—I have about 30 varieties. I also grow ornamental shrubs like barberries, spireas, and ninebark, and roses are a must-have in my garden. I love unusual and rare plants,” Nadezhda explains.
Over time, she has learned to determine which plants grow best in Karakol.
“In my opinion, all plants can grow in Karakol, except for those that prefer acidic soils. However, with desire and a little experience, even such plants can be grown. Almost any plants can be grown here, even some tropical ones. But unfortunately, not all of them survive the winter,” she notes.
Nadezhda does not force flowers for holidays. Her plants find their buyers on their own. She sells her excess and exchanges with other gardeners to replenish her collection. It is important for her not just to sell a plant but to pass it into caring hands.
“I mainly sell my flowers as excess. Over time, I have gathered a decent collection of interesting plants, and people are interested in them. I offer those plants that I consider suitable for sale to acquire something new. Prices, of course, depend on the market, but since I grow them myself, I offer people lower prices than in stores,” she explains.
Nadezhda believes that plants “speak” about their needs, and it is important to know how to listen to them.
“Each plant requires special conditions for good growth. For example, some love a lot of sun, while others prefer shade and abundant watering. Additionally, regular pest treatment and feeding are required. Caring for plants is essentially similar to taking care of children—sometimes even more. Many ask how I know so much about plants, but I can't explain it myself. Perhaps the plants themselves tell me what they need, and I try to create optimal conditions for them. They respond to me with their beauty and abundant blooming,” she added.
Nadezhda's son helps her as a good translator, as he speaks Kyrgyz fluently without an accent.
