IELTS スピーキング パート 2 & 3: Describe a person who loves to grow plants (e.g. vegetables, flowers) at home or in the garden

Growing vegetables or flowers at home has several advantages. You get fresher food and it can save money. Flowers make the place look nicer and lift your mood. Gardening is also a good form of light exercise and a relaxing hobby.

There are quite a few benefits. First, home-grown vegetables are fresher and often tastier, and you can control how they're grown so you avoid unnecessary pesticides. Second, flowers improve the appearance of your home and can boost wellbeing — seeing plants in bloom really reduces stress. Third, gardening helps reduce waste if you compost kitchen scraps, and it cuts food miles. Finally, it can bring neighbours together if you share surplus produce and swap tips.

In my country some people grow plants at home, especially in villages. In cities, people with balconies or small gardens also grow herbs or tomatoes. But many people don't have space or time, so not everyone grows plants.

It depends where you look. In rural areas it's quite common for households to keep a few vegetable beds, and in towns there's been a rise in balcony gardening and allotments. The pandemic encouraged many people to take up gardening, and community gardens have become more popular as a result. However, people living in high-rise flats without outdoor space still find it hard to grow anything beyond a few pots.

Growing plants at home can be easy or hard. Some plants like herbs or salad leaves are simple to grow. Other plants need more care, good soil, and protection from pests. It also depends on the weather and how much time you have.

It isn't always straightforward. The difficulty depends on the species, local climate and the grower's experience — some crops, such as basil, lettuce and radishes, are beginner-friendly and forgiving, whereas fruit trees or certain shrubs require more knowledge about pruning, feeding and pest control. With a bit of guidance on soil improvement, watering routines and basic pest management, most people can get reliable results. Choosing the right plants for your space and season makes a big difference.

People like to grow plants because it's relaxing and enjoyable. It is a hobby that keeps them busy and gives them fresh food or pretty flowers. Some people also like the feeling of achievement when plants grow.

There are several deeper reasons. For many, gardening is therapeutic — it reduces stress and gives a calming daily routine. Others value the connection to nature and the sense of independence that comes from producing your own food. There are also social motives: gardeners often meet neighbours, exchange plants and advice, and feel part of a local community, which is very rewarding.

People prefer to grow their own fruit and vegetables because they taste fresher and they can be cheaper. They also know what's been used on them, so they can avoid chemicals. Some people like the pride of eating food they've grown.

There are several strong reasons for that choice. Home-grown produce is often picked at peak ripeness, which improves flavour and nutritional value, and growing your own lets you avoid pesticides and reduce packaging. Over time it can also be cheaper and reduces dependence on supermarket supply chains, which some people worry about. Beyond practicality, many growers simply enjoy the satisfaction and pride of producing food themselves.

Yes, I think students should learn to grow plants. It teaches responsibility and practical skills. It can also help them understand science and nature. School gardens are a good way for children to learn these things.

Absolutely — gardening is a valuable life skill schools should include. It links directly to biology and environmental education, gives hands-on experience with food and nutrition, and teaches practical lessons about sustainability. Gardening also supports pupils' mental health by reducing stress and boosting self-esteem, and group projects like a school allotment encourage teamwork and practical problem-solving. These lessons can influence healthier eating habits and a greater environmental awareness.