These photos were sent in by Paramjit Doal, who calls himself the Punjabi gardener on his Instagram account.

By trade a businessman selling leather goods, the 51-year-old describes gardening as a newfound hobby that he picked up during lockdown.

He said: "The hobby came about from visiting my wife’s parents.

"Her father was always showing me vegetables and herbs he had grown in his back garden such as coriander, fenugreek, cucumbers and courgettes. It then occurred to me that if my father in law could grow these wonderful plants, I was sure I could given the fact I have the resources and capability of researching how vegetables should be grown.

"Since then, I have grown a multitude of plants such as tomatoes, courgettes, pumpkins, lettuce and chillies. Quite the green finger!

Epping Forest Guardian:

Blooming Brussells sprouts

"The nickname ‘Punjabi Gardener’ came about two months ago when I asked my younger daughter to assist with setting up my Instagram account. She then suggested I pick something close to home and to the point – and there we have the origin! My parents and grandparents are from Punjab so I could think of nothing more fitting."

The Loughton resident, who grew up in Forest Gate, still goes to work every day but says gardening has given him newfound energy to get up early and tend his plants.

He also unwinds in the garden in the evening before dinner, picking any ripe vegetables to use in the pot.

The 51-year-old father of two is often accompanied outside by his dog, Romeo the Lab.

Epping Forest Guardian:

Paramjit with Romeo the Lab

When not outside, he spends time researching more efficient ways to garden, as well as taking time to learn about different plant species, and has already started planning next season's crops.

But Mr Doal says gardening yields more benefits than delicious fresh vegetables to cook.

He added: "Through the increased level of gardening, I have found a significant improvement to my physical and mental health. This is essentially why I am so keen on promoting my hobby to others.

"There is a large stigma surrounding men's mental health, so I find that talking about my own struggles whilst also providing information on gardening is helpful."

Visit Mr Doal's Instagram account @thepunjabigardener.

Epping Forest Guardian: