Sonja's greenhouse, a green self-portrait

Sonja’s greenhouse sparkles in the sunlight breaking through the catalpa canopy. She fills her greenhouse with her favourite ornamental plants, cherry tomatoes for the grandchildren and homemade artwork. A green self-portrait, that’s what she calls her greenhouse.

Can you tell us about how you got into gardening?

My love for flowers and plants is deeprooted. When I bought this house, I hired a landscape gardener to help me design my garden. The result is a lush garden with richly planted borders full of colourful flowers. The clearing in the middle, however, was screaming out for something special. A stately garden greenhouse completed the picture. 

What is your favourite crop?

On my travels in the East I have come across all kinds of exotic plant species. My beloved bonsais enjoy the warmth and light in my greenhouse. 

What does gardening mean to you? 

Six years ago I said goodbye to my job as a nurse and went into retirement. The extra free time allowed me to discover an artistic side of myself. I started experimenting with ceramics and sculpture, from which I still get great satisfaction. And gardening is also a bit like art. You try things out and with a bit of luck you create something beautiful. Plus, my grandchildren love helping out in the greenhouse. Their enthusiasm makes gardening together even more fun.