Meet Mustafa Tekin, a 76-year-old Kayseri resident who has spent the final 35 years planting saplings and making roadside landscapes come alive with greenery. Inspired by his love for the surroundings and a want to contribute to his nation and fellow residents, Tekin has changed into a tireless advocate for a greener future.
Tekin planted oaks and acorns on mountain slopes, significantly within the majestic Erciyes area. However, about 15 years in the past, he diversified his efforts by introducing numerous fruit saplings alongside roadsides.
Having planted 1000’s of saplings at strategic areas, together with the Ali Mountain highway close to his dwelling, Tekin demonstrates unwavering dedication to their care and upkeep. His coronary heart fills with pleasure when passers-by and dwelling beings profit from the fruits of timber he nurtured.
In an interview with Anadolu Agency (AA), Tekin shared his journey, recounting how he started by planting oak timber within the mountains and later transitioned to grafting wild timber alongside the Ali Mountain highway, interspersing them with several types of fruit seedlings.
Tekin fastidiously selects areas the place irrigation is possible whereas planting seeds in locations with out water provide. He covers over 15 kilometers every day, tending to his saplings with utmost care, treating them like his personal youngsters.
The array of timber Tekin has launched offers a bountiful assortment of fruits for individuals to get pleasure from. “Kayseri is home to all types of trees, from walnuts and mulberries to apricots and apples,” he proudly famous. Tekin additionally focuses on planting almond timber, recognized for his or her resilience in drought situations. Year after 12 months, he continues this labor of affection, planting 3,000 to five,000 seeds every autumn and grafting wild timber throughout spring, attentively monitoring their development all through the summer time.
Tekin, who finds contentment, peace, and happiness in his work, expressed his want to proceed planting timber for so long as he lives. Despite encountering blended reactions from these round him, Tekin stays undeterred. “Some people say, ‘Are you crazy? Stay where you are.’ But I have nobody. I cannot find joy in the world or inner peace if I don’t do this. Let them mind their business,” he asserted.
While Tekin’s efforts have obtained widespread appreciation, he additionally faces challenges, comparable to tree injury by people. In an enchantment to the general public, Tekin requested individuals to chorus from breaking tree branches whereas plucking fruits.
Tekin’s exceptional dedication to enhancing the pure surroundings serves as an inspiring instance for others to comply with. His selfless dedication not solely beautifies Kayseri but additionally offers sustenance to each people and wildlife. With every sapling he vegetation, Tekin contributes to a greener, extra vibrant future for his neighborhood and future generations.
Source: www.dailysabah.com
