GROW
A sustainable planet starts with you. The environment will benefit greatly if we can grow a portion of what we eat. To many, it may seem like a stretch to make a connection between gardening and climate change. There is, however, a direct relationship between how we as a community grow and distribute our food and the carbon emissions that are a major contributor to global warming.
Instill a habit of gardening in yourself and teach your children the importance of the same. Help the little ones follow a routine where they water the plants, check their progress and put them under sunlight from time to time. You can take the children for frequent botanical garden trips, encourage them to learn more about plants, and make it their hobby. You can also build a group of plant enthusiasts in your neighbourhood/community. Together, grow greens, eat healthy, and help the planet.
To get started on your own vegetable garden, here’s what you need:
A well-ventilated spot that gets a few hours of direct sunlight throughout the day. It can be your balcony, terrace, your garden, or even your window boxes.
- Seedling trays or small planters, and small paper/plastic cups to germinate seeds indoors.
- Big planters, at least 12 to 15 inches in diameter and just as tall if not more. You can use terracotta planters, plastic, or fibre planters or even jute ones. You can repurpose old buckets, drums or clay pots for planting or any other containers that meet the size requirements. Just make sure to drill holes into the bottom for ample drainage.
- A misting spray to spray neem /Indian lilac oil, fertilisers, and water.
- A rich, well-draining potting mix that supports healthy growth, organic compost, and regular tap water.
The 5 easiest vegetables you can grow are tomatoes, beans, peppers, gourds and cucumbers. Preparation is key with the reward being a healthier, more productive garden and fresh food that tastes better than anything.
Essential Tips for Starting a Balcony Vegetable Garden