Not knowing what career to pursue or what to study after high school, Panashe Nyapokoto started growing herbs.
The 24-year-old from Selection Park started farming in 2018 when her parents bought a plot.
“I was trying to figure out what to do. I had never really been interested in farming until we moved to the plot and was forced to look at life a little differently.“
She later moved to a flat and realised she was passionate about growing plants. Her farming dream was realised during her gap year.
“I became fully immersed in growing things, and have never looked back since.”
Her passion and love for the green life had grown so great that she took to furthering her studies in agriculture.
“I am now a part-time student studying for my Bachelor of Sciences in Agriculture.”
She says she loves herbs as you can grow them in small spaces such as kitchen counters and window sills.
“They are low-maintenance plants and don’t need a lot of water to thrive. Small spaces are perfect for herbs.“
She says a lot of love is needed to cultivate and grow healthy plants.
“Once you have a passion for them, the ability and want to take care of them will come naturally to you. You will do things like watering when needed and feed them with the necessary nutrients.”
She adds placing them in the correct plant pot is important.
“Having a well-drained potting mix and placing them in a relatively well-lit area for four to six hours. They also require regular pruning to encourage new growth.”
Panashe says her favourite herbs are rosemary and mint.
“I use the herbs for cooking and make rosemary oil for my hair. I just love how they smell.”
She adds there are other advantages to growing your own herbs.
“Growing your own has a cost-saving element.“
She mentions rosemary can grow and be harvested for up to 10 years.
“Growing herbs is also a way to make extra income as I sell some of my plants.”
Panashe also says growing things is therapeutic and fulfilling, especially after harvesting your produce.
“I remember when I harvested my first potatoes. I was happy when I held up the first potato I had planted with my bare hands.”
Apart from plants, Panashe is an animal lover who also loves to read.
“I would encourage everyone to have little gardens in their home.”
