Gurbanguli’s Top Gardening Tips

Amid the heat of summer, Lord Venal enjoys nothing more than a cocktail in a shady garden on a cool evening before heading out for a nightclub. He admires those who toil away thanklessly to create a beautiful garden paradise. He was, therefore, inspired by the latest, lavishly-illustrated volume from his good friend Gurbanguli Berdymukhamedov.

Turkmenistan’s inspirational president is known not just for his wise governance and literary and musical endeavours, but for his skills outdoors, including sporting prowess (notably horse riding) and gardening.

Here are his top tips from his latest book, Golden Fingers for a Golden Age, together with some of the charming illustrations:

Tip No. 1: Make sure you are appropriately dressed

When digging the land and planting a tree, it is important to ensure you and any friends are wearing suitable clothing. You cannot go wrong with a dark lounge suit, appropriate for all weathers, though sometimes a white shirt and natty tie will suffice.

Tip No. 2: Decorate your gardening spot to make a pleasant setting

Gardening has to be an all-encompassing experience, so laying down a carpet or two surrounding the plot you are to dig always brings a little elegance.

Tip No. 3: Make sure the ground is well prepared

Nothing speeds a spot of gardening more than having a team of people working ahead of time, so that planting a tree, for example, takes almost no time at all.

Tip No. 4: Always ensure you have a good team of admirers and photographers

Nothing helps create a pleasant atmosphere for a spot of gardening than bringing along a posse of cheerful admirers, complete with TV and still cameras. Some of the best shots can form the basis of a home movie or a souvenir album to remind you of the relaxing moments in the fresh air.

Tip No. 5: Don’t forget to water your plants

Before you leave, finish off the fun by watering your plants well. Especially when it is raining.