Nestled amidst the serene hills of Mandeville lies Zen Garden, a verdant oasis meticulously nurtured by the skilled hands and passionate heart of Sharon Chin-Tai. Aptly named for the profound peace it invokes, this nursery transcends the ordinary, offering visitors a respite from the chaos of everyday life.

The genesis of the nursery’s name traces back to a fortuitous encounter. Chin-Tai recalls the moment when a customer, struck by the garden’s serene beauty, exclaimed, “This is pure Zen!” The resonance of those words confirmed the perfect moniker she had long sought.

Entering Zen Garden is akin to stepping into another realm. Even amid a gentle drizzle, Chin-Tai finds herself mesmerised, momentarily freed from worldly concerns as she immerses herself in the lush embrace of nature.

Every aspect of the landscape is curated to inspire quiet contemplation. Tranquil fish ponds ripple softly, vibrant fruit trees sway in the breeze, and a tapestry of verdant foliage creates a sense of harmony and balance. Exotic blooms such as jacobena, sun vanda, and phalaenopsis intermingle with vibrant anthuriums and zinnias, while majestic palm trees and fruit-bearing apple trees add a touch of grandeur.

For Chin-Tai, Zen Garden is not just a project; it is a labour of love that has flourished over time. She finds joy in the propagation process, delighting in the sight of a plant she nurtured from a mere cutting blooming for the first time. “I simply love to witness growth,” she remarks with a smile.

This passion for gardening burns brightly within her, undeterred even by physical challenges. “There was a time when knee issues threatened to keep me from my garden,” she confides. “The thought was devastating. Gardening is not just a hobby; it is my lifeline.”

While she harbours an interest in architecture and design, she emphasises the fluidity of Zen Garden’s design, ensuring it undergoes a continuous metamorphosis to enhance its beauty.

Yet, Zen Garden is more than just a haven of personal peace; it is deeply intertwined with family. From grandchildren eagerly helping with watering to her daughter collaborating in maintenance, and the subtle presence of her husband’s love for palm trees evident in the landscape, the garden brims with familial love.

Mandeville’s cool climate and abundant rainfall provide the ideal environment. To ensure the plants thrive even during drier months, Chin-Tai ingeniously utilises water tanks to collect rainwater, a testament to her resourcefulness and dedication.

“While some may find my gardening methods unconventional,” she explains, “I believe in the power of simplicity and intuition. Often, it yields remarkable results.”

For Chin-Tail, gardening is not merely a pastime; it is a way of life — an integral part of her existence. Her advice to aspiring gardeners is simple: “Start with a single seed, nurture your love for plants, and let nature be your guide.”

Zen Garden, born from her passion, is a testament to the transformative power of nature and the beauty that blossoms when connection is made with the earth.