The Editor, Sir:

Dr Wendel Abel, I enjoyed your article on gardening. I am a Jamaican living in the United States, and someone who has loved gardening even as a young child. My family and I migrated in 1980 and after a few career changes, I found my love of plants pointed me towards a wonderful career in horticulture. I have now been in the field for over 20 years and I love it more each day.

Good for health

I have been working in the horticulture unit at a community college in California for the past 18 years. You are so right about gardening being good not only for physical health but also your mental health.

Four years ago this coming July, my husband of 35 years died suddenly. If not for my love of gardening, I would not be here today. When I touch a plant or feel the soil in my hands, it brings such peace to my soul. I can feel really down, and I'll just go out in my yard or at work, do some pruning, re-pot a plant, take some cuttings or one of the many chores of gardening and my mind goes to more pleasant thoughts.

I always read your article; this one on gardening was special to me. I will visit some of those gardens you mentioned when I make my annual visit to Jamaica this summer. Keep up the good work and happy gardening.

I am, etc.,

YVONNE ALLIMAN

yalliman@saddleback.edu