Gardening helps green thumb cultivate healthy habits

Velia Moncada

Gila River Indian News

“She is a prime example of someone who has returned to her roots to care for and love plants,” said David Van Druff, Garden Services Manager at the Hu Hu Kam Memorial Hospital, recognizing Gina Enos from District 3 as a skilled gardener. He explains that Community members have fruitfully utilized the garden tubs he distributes through the Garden Services program. Which Enos has placed in her garden at home, truly embracing the gardening lifestyle.

 “I wanted to do from the garden to the table,” said Enos on Friday July 14.  During the interview, she was found outside her home watering her very luscious garden.  The discussion began with a tour of garden  where she is growing chili, squash, gourds, broccoli, eggplant, zucchini, snap peas, and table herbs.  It also included a viewing of her corn plot.  Enos’s garden had a wide range of species of fruits and vegetables. 

Six years ago, Enos began her gardening journey as a lifestyle change. This was a way to become healthier and take control of what she was consuming.  She also stressed the fact that she wanted to ensure the food she ate was free from harmful pesticides.

“David’s program is very supportive, they get you started and you don’t have to go this big, you can start off small at first.  They put time and energy to help you, then you’re on your own,” said Enos. 

However, the Garden Services program is available to answer questions and make home visits for gardeners that require assistance.

Through her continued gardening, she began yielding bountiful produce and has really enjoyed sharing what she produces with the Community.  “It makes me feel good when people come and get my food and eat,” she added. 

For new and first-time gardeners, Enos shares the following advice.  “A big key is to understand your soil, use some type of fertilizer, and also learn what you’re good at growing.”