My orchard is in Petecbiltún, a small settlement in Umán, Yucatán.
The land where I have planted my garden is fertile, very soft soil that I prepare with plenty of organic matter and cultivated microorganisms.
I grow a wide variety of species: vegetables, greens, fruits, corn, beans, aromatic herbs, medicinal plants — all depending on the planting season.
I sell my produce directly from my garden and at the Mercado Riqueza Local in Parque Gonzalo Guerrero, in the north of the city of Mérida, where several growers come together to sell our products.
The biggest challenges I face right now are the drought and the lack of electricity — without it, I have to water my garden using a motor pump, and gasoline is very expensive. If there were electricity, watering my plants would be so much easier. Another challenge is that my garden is far from the city. And yet another is learning to coexist with wild animals: respecting them while protecting our crops without harming our local wildlife.
I have been devoted to farming for 10 years, and I love everything I do in my garden. I cannot see myself doing anything else. My garden is my peace, my safe place. I am moved watching how everything germinates, and I never stop marveling at how everything grows and at how generous Mother Earth is with us.
Among my plants there is no depression, only joy! My plants bring out the best in me and always put a smile on my face. That feeling is made complete by my hens, ducks, sheep, and my dog — they are my best companions.
I am simply very happy. Every day I am grateful to be here and to not feel alone. If paradise exists here on Earth, it is right here — sowing, in my garden.
There are only two paths: to be sad or to be happy.
I choose to be very happy in my garden.
Silvia Guerra Euán / Petecbiltún, Yucatán
