THE SEED OF MY ANCESTORS

MAURITIAN CUCUMBER

This a Mauritian cucumber. To me, it is one of the most rewarding things I have grown and nurtured in my sanctuary this season. My parents and my ancestors are from the teeny tiny Island of Mauritius. The seeds I used to grow this cucumber are from Mauritius and to me this plant represents the preservation and legacy of my plant ancestors.

Part of the magic of starting these particular seeds from my ancestral homeland in British soil, is the ability to sustain the lineage of my roots as well as encouraging community, togetherness and sharing. Sometimes fruit and veg from exotic countries find it hard to adapt to the weather in the UK, but with guidance from my family in Mauritius and my parents, my cucumbers are thriving! 

We can establish relationships with new lines of seeds, or maintain planting rituals with saved seeds from your garden, friends and family. My dad gave me these seeds to care for. In many ways it is like a family heirloom. They will be continued to be passed on from generation to generation, preserving heritage and passing on traits to future offspring.

We should all make an effort to start saving seeds. Not only is it a way to avoid the GMO varieties sold commercially, but seed starting offers us a chance to connect deeply with the seeds we plant - from sowing to harvesting, while establishing and maintaining the sacred lineage with our plant allies. 

So much potential is present in a single seed. It has the ability to grow, flourish, produce fruit and flowers, offer nutrition and healing, so let’s preserve that magic. 

Save your seeds and preserve the traditions and flavours of the past. May future generations be blessed with fresh fruits and vegetables for years to come.

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Moni Dajee, founder of The London Alchemists - artist, creator, explorer, beekeeper and avid practitioner of natural alchemy.