The spring of 2022 in Shanghai was a season unlike any other. The pandemic transformed a typically vibrant city into a scene of stillness, as residents found themselves confined to their homes for the entire spring. Over two months of quarantine blurred the lines of time; clocks became irrelevant, and sunlight dictated the rhythm of daily life. It was as if the city had reverted to an agricultural age, where existence was tethered to the cycles of nature, with work and life unfolding from sunrise to sunset.

During these prolonged and monotonous days, the growth of plants emerged as a source of solace and vitality. While society seemed to be on hold, nature continued its relentless march forward. Flowers and plants adhered to their intrinsic schedules, blooming and withering as they always had, indifferent to the human predicament.

It all began with a social media trend—"increasing food production"—spurred by a food shortage. People started growing hydroponic vegetables such as lettuce, potatoes, and green onions in their homes. What began as a necessity soon evolved into a more elaborate endeavor. Ornamental plants and flowers, sourced from neighborhood green spaces and online group purchases, became new members of the household. Documenting their growth, blooming, and eventual withering turned into a cherished daily ritual.

Despite sharing the same environment, each plant exhibited its unique character. Some thrived with resilience, standing firm regardless of the circumstances. Others flaunted their beauty unabashedly, commanding attention as if they were the center of the world. Some seemed lost and struggled to find hope, while others sacrificed parts of themselves for the greater good. A few sat quietly on the sidelines, observing with an air of quiet contentment. These plants, in their diversity, mirrored the various facets of human life.

Spring has always symbolized renewal and new beginnings. In this unique spring, flowers and plants became vessels for our hopes and dreams. By documenting their growth, we also captured the subtle shifts in society and the profound changes within ourselves during this unforgettable time.

The simple act of nurturing these plants became a metaphor for resilience and adaptability. In a world turned upside down, these botanical companions offered lessons in patience, beauty, and the unyielding will to thrive. Each blossom was a testament to the enduring spirit of life, a small but potent reminder that even in the darkest times, growth and renewal are possible.

Through this botanical journey, we found a new appreciation for the cycles of life and the interconnectedness of all living things. The spring of 2022, marked by isolation and uncertainty, was also a season of unexpected beauty and profound reflection. It taught us to cherish the small moments of joy and to find strength in the quiet persistence of nature. As we move forward, these lessons remain, etched in our memories like the delicate petals of the flowers that brightened our days.