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Soneva Namoona launches Tropical Organic Gardening course

Mariyam Malsa
06 July 2020, MVT 20:26
Member of the Soneva gardening team holding two plants. PHOTO: SONEVA
Mariyam Malsa
06 July 2020, MVT 20:26

Luxury resort brand Soneva, on Sunday, launched an online Tropical Organic Gardening course, aimed to teach people residing in tropical countries regarding food growth.

The course was released on Soneva Namoona social media platforms through which viewers can send questions to the gardening team at Soneva Fushi.

The 10-episode tutorial is structured as a beginner’s guide for individuals carrying out gardening activities on small balconies in the capital city of Male’, in back gardens or larger plots of land.

Soneva's course specifically seeks to assist people self-isolating in tropical countries amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic with growing nutritious vegetables at home.

The Tropical Organic Gardening course was filmed at Soneva Fushi in Baa Atoll and covers a range of topics such as preparing a growing space, planting, maintenance and harvesting as well as quality enhancement of vegetables.

Hosted by Soneva’s Waste-to Wealth Manager Justin Robertshaw, the tutorials are part of the Soneva Namoona project, a partnership between Soneva, international NGO Commons Seas and the islands of Maalhos, Kihaadhoo and Dharavandhoo in Baa Atoll.

All methods and techniques in the course reflect the expertise of Soneva’s employees and existing practices at the organic gardens at Soneva Fushi.

“At Soneva we have developed tried and tested permaculture techniques for growing in a tropical climate that we want to share with our local communities. These techniques will also help beginner gardeners all around the world, whether you have access to a garden space or a simple balcony," said Soneva’s Waste-to Wealth Manager.

The following topics are included in the Tropical Organic Gardening course:

- Introduction

- Preparing a raised bed

- Potting

- Seeds and planting

- Companion planting

- Regular care and maintenance

- Harvesting

- Pest control

- Composting

- Worm farms

"Growing your own food is the best way to ensure you’re eating the most organic, freshest and nutritious food. It’s also fun and a good way to relax, slow down and connect with nature. That makes it healthy, both inside and out".

"With the COVID-19 pandemic, taking better care of your health has become even more of a priority for many people," said Justin Robertshaw, Soneva Fushi’s Waste-to-Wealth Manager.

"I hope this timely online tutorial results in more healthy, nutritious food being grown locally in the Maldives. The Soneva Namoona partnership aims to help island communities become exemplary in waste management, reducing single-use plastics, and fostering a love for the environment," stated Soneva’s CEO and Co-Founder Sonu Shivdasani.

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