Plants chosen for Indian homes

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Every plant with its photo, sunlight, watering, pot size, season and care. Tap “Growing details” for the potting mix, compost use and pests to watch for.

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Vegetables & greens

Amaranth Greens · Bell Pepper · Cabbage · Carrot · Cauliflower · Cherry Tomato · Cluster Bean · Coriander (Cilantro) · Eggplant (Aubergine) · Fenugreek Greens · Garlic Greens · Green Chilli · Green Sorrel · Indian Pennywort · Kenaf Greens · Leaf Lettuce · Microgreens · Moringa (Drumstick Tree) · Mustard Greens · Okra · Onion · Pigeon Pea · Pumpkin · Radish · Sessile Joyweed (Water Amaranth) · Spinach · Spring Onion · Sweet Corn · Sweet Potato · Tomato

Amaranth Greens Beginner pick

Amaranthus tricolor

Fast leafy greens – first harvest in 3–4 weeks.

Why it is a great choice: One of the fastest, easiest and most nutritious leafy greens – first harvest in 3–4 weeks. Did you know? It is rich in iron, calcium and vitamin C – more than many common greens.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical Asia.
Where it grows today: Eaten across Asia, Africa and the Caribbean, where it is known as callaloo.
History: Amaranth has been cultivated for thousands of years; the Aztecs grew grain amaranth.
On cold nights: A warm-season crop; growth slows below 15°C.
Plant type: Vegetable / leafy green
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres. · in the ground, about 1 ft between plants
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Feb–Sep (summer & monsoon)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Harvest little and often; resow every 3–4 weeks for a steady supply.
Potting mix: Leafy-greens mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of neem cake per pot (keeps soil pests away).
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Aphids, Leaf miners

Photo: Photo: AditiB08 · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Bell Pepper

Capsicum annuum

Cool-season pepper for grow bags; stake it when fruiting.

Why it is a great choice: Colourful, sweet peppers from a grow bag. Did you know? Red peppers are simply ripe green peppers.

Growing details and history

Origin: Mexico and Central America.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide; China is the largest producer.
History: Cultivated for over 6,000 years.
On cold nights: Nights below 15°C slow growth.
Plant type: Vegetable / leafy green
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres. · in the ground, about 1.5 ft between plants
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Oct–Feb (cool season)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Feed with compost every 3–4 weeks and water at the base, not on the leaves.
Potting mix: Vegetable mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 1 handful of bone meal per grow bag.
Homemade compost: Yes – it loves it. Use 25–30% mature compost in the potting mix, then top-dress with 1–2 handfuls every 3–4 weeks. Compost alone may not supply enough food for heavy croppers – add vermicompost or a balanced feed when it flowers and fruits.
Watch for: Thrips, Spider mites, Aphids

Photo: Photo: 阿橋 HQ · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Cabbage

Brassica oleracea var. capitata

Cool-season heads in 80–100 days.

Why it is a great choice: Firm heads from the cool season. Did you know? A cabbage can weigh over 50 kg.

Growing details and history

Origin: The Mediterranean.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide; China is the largest producer.
History: Cultivated for over 3,000 years.
On cold nights: Loves cool nights; survives frost.
Plant type: Vegetable / leafy green
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Highlands
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres. · in the ground, about 1.5 ft between plants
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Oct–Feb (cool season)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Feed with compost every 3–4 weeks and water at the base, not on the leaves.
Potting mix: Vegetable mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 1 handful of bone meal per grow bag.
Homemade compost: Yes – it loves it. Use 25–30% mature compost in the potting mix, then top-dress with 1–2 handfuls every 3–4 weeks. Compost alone may not supply enough food for heavy croppers – add vermicompost or a balanced feed when it flowers and fruits.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Aphids

Photo: Photo: Forest and Kim Starr · CC BY 3.0 us · Wikimedia Commons

Carrot Beginner pick

Daucus carota subsp. sativus

Sow directly in loose soil Oct–Dec.

Why it is a great choice: Sweet roots from loose soil. Did you know? Orange carrots are a 17th-century Dutch invention.

Growing details and history

Origin: Central Asia (Afghanistan).
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide; China is the largest producer.
History: Early carrots were purple and yellow; orange carrots were developed in the Netherlands.
On cold nights: Loves cool nights.
Plant type: Vegetable / leafy green
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Highlands
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 3 inches between plants
Mature size: Usually under 1 ft (30 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Oct–Feb (cool season)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Feed with compost every 3–4 weeks and water at the base, not on the leaves.
Potting mix: Loose root-crop mix: 30% garden soil, 30% cocopeat, 20% coarse sand, 20% compost. Natural add-on: a handful of neem cake; sieve out stones so roots grow straight.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Aphids

Photo: Photo: Shark2025 · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Cauliflower

Brassica oleracea var. botrytis

Transplant seedlings Oct–Nov; heads in about 90 days.

Why it is a great choice: A rewarding cool-season crop. Did you know? The white head is a mass of undeveloped flower buds.

Growing details and history

Origin: The Mediterranean.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide; China and India are leading producers.
History: Developed in the Mediterranean in the 1500s.
On cold nights: Loves cool nights.
Plant type: Vegetable / leafy green
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Highlands
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres. · in the ground, about 1.5 ft between plants
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Oct–Feb (cool season)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Feed with compost every 3–4 weeks and water at the base, not on the leaves.
Potting mix: Vegetable mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 1 handful of bone meal per grow bag.
Homemade compost: Yes – it loves it. Use 25–30% mature compost in the potting mix, then top-dress with 1–2 handfuls every 3–4 weeks. Compost alone may not supply enough food for heavy croppers – add vermicompost or a balanced feed when it flowers and fruits.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Aphids

Photo: Photo: Rjcastillo · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Cherry Tomato Beginner pick

Solanum lycopersicum var. cerasiforme

Sweet bite-size fruits about 70 days after sowing.

Why it is a great choice: Sweet, bite-size fruit all season. Did you know? Cherry tomatoes are sweeter than large tomatoes.

Growing details and history

Origin: Western South America.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide.
History: The ancestor of all modern tomatoes.
On cold nights: Nights below 10°C stop fruit setting.
Plant type: Vegetable / leafy green
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres.
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Start from your kitchen: Squeeze seeds from a ripe tomato, rinse, dry for a day and sow in a seed tray.
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Feed with compost every 3–4 weeks and water at the base, not on the leaves.
Potting mix: Vegetable mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 1 handful of bone meal per grow bag.
Homemade compost: Yes – it loves it. Use 25–30% mature compost in the potting mix, then top-dress with 1–2 handfuls every 3–4 weeks. Compost alone may not supply enough food for heavy croppers – add vermicompost or a balanced feed when it flowers and fruits.
Watch for: Whiteflies, Caterpillars, Fungal leaf spots / blight

Photo: Photo: Leon Brooks · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

Cluster Bean Beginner pick

Cyamopsis tetragonoloba

Drought-hardy bean for dry regions.

Why it is a great choice: A tough bean for dry areas. Did you know? Guar gum from its seeds is used in ice cream.

Growing details and history

Origin: India.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Pakistan and the United States.
History: Its seeds produce guar gum, used worldwide as a thickener.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth.
Plant type: Vegetable / leafy green
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres. · in the ground, about 1.5 ft between plants
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Feb–Sep (summer & monsoon)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Feed with compost every 3–4 weeks and water at the base, not on the leaves.
Potting mix: Vegetable mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 1 handful of bone meal per grow bag.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Aphids, Powdery mildew

Photo: Photo: Ton Rulkens · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Coriander (Cilantro) Beginner pick

Coriandrum sativum

Ready in 4 weeks; resow every 3 weeks for a steady supply.

Why it is a great choice: Fresh leaves in just four weeks from kitchen seeds. Did you know? Some people taste soap in its leaves because of a gene that detects aldehydes.

Growing details and history

Origin: The Mediterranean and Southwest Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide.
History: Mentioned in ancient Sanskrit texts and found in Egyptian tombs.
On cold nights: Prefers cool nights – it grows best in the cool season.
Plant type: Vegetable / leafy green
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: undefined
Mature size: Usually under 1 ft (30 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Oct–Feb (cool season)
Start from your kitchen: Lightly crush whole coriander seeds into halves, soak 12 hours and sow 1 cm deep.
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Harvest little and often; resow every 3–4 weeks for a steady supply.
Potting mix: Leafy-greens mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of neem cake per pot (keeps soil pests away).
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Aphids, Powdery mildew

Photo: Photo: Krish Dulal · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Eggplant (Aubergine) Beginner pick

Solanum melongena

Fruits for months from a large grow bag.

Why it is a great choice: A heavy cropper that fruits for months in a grow bag. Did you know? It is a close relative of the tomato and potato.

Growing details and history

Origin: South and Southeast Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide; China and India produce most of the world's crop.
History: Cultivated in Asia for over 2,000 years.
On cold nights: Nights below 15°C slow growth.
Plant type: Vegetable / leafy green
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres.
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Feed with compost every 3–4 weeks and water at the base, not on the leaves.
Potting mix: Vegetable mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 1 handful of bone meal per grow bag.
Homemade compost: Yes – it loves it. Use 25–30% mature compost in the potting mix, then top-dress with 1–2 handfuls every 3–4 weeks. Compost alone may not supply enough food for heavy croppers – add vermicompost or a balanced feed when it flowers and fruits.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Spider mites, Whiteflies

Photo: Photo: Joydeep · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Fenugreek Greens Beginner pick

Trigonella foenum-graecum

Leaves in three weeks from kitchen seeds.

Why it is a great choice: A quick, nutritious green from seeds you already have. Did you know? Its seeds smell like maple syrup.

Growing details and history

Origin: The Mediterranean and Western Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Morocco, Egypt, Turkey and Ukraine.
History: Used by ancient Egyptians in embalming and incense.
On cold nights: Prefers cool nights; grows best in the cool season.
Plant type: Vegetable / leafy green
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: undefined
Mature size: Usually under 1 ft (30 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Oct–Feb (cool season)
Start from your kitchen: Soak kitchen fenugreek seeds overnight and scatter them thickly on moist soil.
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Harvest little and often; resow every 3–4 weeks for a steady supply.
Potting mix: Leafy-greens mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of neem cake per pot (keeps soil pests away).
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Aphids, Powdery mildew

Photo: Photo: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Garlic Greens Beginner pick

Allium sativum

Plant single cloves; snip the green shoots in 2 weeks.

Why it is a great choice: Fresh garlic greens in two weeks. Did you know? Each clove can grow into a new plant.

Growing details and history

Origin: Central Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide; China is the largest producer.
History: Cultivated for over 5,000 years.
On cold nights: Loves cool nights.
Plant type: Vegetable / leafy green
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 4 inches between plants
Mature size: Usually under 1 ft (30 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Oct–Feb (cool season)
Start from your kitchen: Push single garlic cloves, pointed end up, 2 cm into soil.
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Harvest little and often; resow every 3–4 weeks for a steady supply.
Potting mix: Leafy-greens mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of neem cake per pot (keeps soil pests away).
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Thrips

Photo: Photo: 경빈마마 · CC BY 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Green Chilli Beginner pick

Capsicum annuum

Two plants give chillies for daily cooking.

Why it is a great choice: Two plants give fresh chillies for daily cooking. Did you know? Birds cannot feel chilli heat, which helps them spread the seeds.

Growing details and history

Origin: Mexico and Central America.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide; India is the largest producer.
History: Columbus brought chillies to Europe; Portuguese traders brought them to Asia.
On cold nights: Nights below 15°C slow growth.
Plant type: Vegetable / leafy green
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Start from your kitchen: Take seeds from a dry red chilli or a ripe green chilli, soak overnight and sow 0.5 cm deep.
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Feed with compost every 3–4 weeks and water at the base, not on the leaves.
Potting mix: Vegetable mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 1 handful of bone meal per grow bag.
Homemade compost: Yes – it loves it. Use 25–30% mature compost in the potting mix, then top-dress with 1–2 handfuls every 3–4 weeks. Compost alone may not supply enough food for heavy croppers – add vermicompost or a balanced feed when it flowers and fruits.
Watch for: Thrips, Spider mites, Whiteflies, Aphids

Photo: Photo: Deepthi Senthil · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Green Sorrel Beginner pick

Rumex vesicarius

Tangy leaves for cooking; first harvest in about 30 days.

Why it is a great choice: A quick, tangy leafy green. Did you know? Its tang comes from oxalic acid.

Growing details and history

Origin: North Africa and Southwest Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown in India and the Middle East.
History: A traditional leafy green in desert regions.
On cold nights: Prefers mild nights; struggles in frost.
Plant type: Vegetable / leafy green
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: undefined
Mature size: Usually under 1 ft (30 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Oct–Feb (cool season)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Harvest little and often; resow every 3–4 weeks for a steady supply.
Potting mix: Leafy-greens mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of neem cake per pot (keeps soil pests away).
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Aphids, Leaf miners

Photo: Photo: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Indian Pennywort

Centella asiatica

Leafy herb with round leaves; likes constantly moist soil.

Why it is a great choice: A nutritious leafy green that thrives in wet soil. Did you know? Its leaves are round and fan-shaped, like a tiny umbrella.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia and South Africa.
History: Used in Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine for centuries.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth; slows in cold.
Plant type: Vegetable / leafy green
Sunlight: Bright light, no harsh sun
Watering: Daily in summer – keep soil moist
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Harvest little and often; resow every 3–4 weeks for a steady supply.
Potting mix: Leafy-greens mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of neem cake per pot (keeps soil pests away).
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Snails and slugs

Photo: Photo: Shahidul Hasan Roman · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Kenaf Greens Beginner pick

Hibiscus cannabinus

Tangy, sour leaves for cooking; easy from seed.

Why it is a great choice: A fast, tangy leafy green for warm seasons. Did you know? Its stems produce a strong fibre used for ropes and paper.

Growing details and history

Origin: Africa.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, China, Africa and the United States.
History: Cultivated for its fibre and its edible leaves.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth; frost kills it.
Plant type: Vegetable / leafy green
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres.
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Harvest little and often; resow every 3–4 weeks for a steady supply.
Potting mix: Leafy-greens mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of neem cake per pot (keeps soil pests away).
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Caterpillars

Photo: Photo: Rleo4Guido · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Leaf Lettuce Beginner pick

Lactuca sativa

Salad leaves Oct–Feb; bolts in summer.

Why it is a great choice: Fresh salad leaves in about five weeks. Did you know? Its milky sap gave it the Latin name "lactuca", from "lac" (milk).

Growing details and history

Origin: The Mediterranean and Middle East.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide; China is the largest producer.
History: Ancient Egyptians grew lettuce over 4,500 years ago.
On cold nights: Loves cool nights; bolts in summer heat.
Plant type: Vegetable / leafy green
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: undefined
Mature size: Usually under 1 ft (30 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Oct–Feb (cool season)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Harvest little and often; resow every 3–4 weeks for a steady supply.
Potting mix: Leafy-greens mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of neem cake per pot (keeps soil pests away).
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Aphids, Snails and slugs

Photo: Photo: DeFacto · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Microgreens Beginner pick

Raphanus sativus

Harvest in 7–10 days from a tray on a bright window sill or balcony.

Why it is a great choice: Fresh, nutrient-rich greens in just 7–10 days. Did you know? Some microgreens contain up to 40 times more nutrients than mature leaves.

Growing details and history

Origin: Not a single species – young seedlings of radish, mustard and other crops.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide in kitchens and restaurants.
History: Became popular in Californian restaurants in the 1980s.
On cold nights: Grow indoors at any time of year.
Plant type: Vegetable / leafy green
Sunlight: Bright light or sun – a window sill is enough
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: undefined
Mature size: Usually under 1 ft (30 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Start from your kitchen: Soak whole mung beans, mustard or fenugreek seeds overnight; spread on a tray of cocopeat and keep moist.
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Harvest little and often; resow every 3–4 weeks for a steady supply.
Potting mix: Microgreens base: 70% cocopeat, 30% fine compost. Natural add-on: nothing else needed.
Homemade compost: Use only fine, fully mature compost (sieved) as up to 30% of the tray mix – microgreens are harvested young and need no extra feeding.
Watch for: Root or stem rot

Photo: Photo: Zenyrgarden · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Moringa (Drumstick Tree) Beginner pick

Moringa oleifera

Edible leaves, flowers and pods from a very fast, drought-tolerant tree.

Why it is a great choice: A superfood tree that grows several metres in its first year. Did you know? Its leaves are among the most nutrient-dense of any plant.

Growing details and history

Origin: The foothills of the Himalayas in northern India.
Where it grows today: Grown across India, Africa, the Philippines and Latin America.
History: Valued for thousands of years; now promoted worldwide to fight malnutrition.
On cold nights: Drops leaves in cold nights below 10°C; regrows quickly.
Plant type: Vegetable / leafy green
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 10 ft between plants
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Harvest little and often; resow every 3–4 weeks for a steady supply.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Fruit flies in fruit

Photo: Photo: Venkatx5 · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Mustard Greens Beginner pick

Brassica juncea

Sow mustard seeds from your kitchen – greens in 3 weeks.

Why it is a great choice: Fast, peppery greens from kitchen seeds. Did you know? Its leaves taste peppery.

Growing details and history

Origin: Central Asia and the Himalayas.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, China, Japan and the United States.
History: Cultivated for over 5,000 years.
On cold nights: Loves cool nights.
Plant type: Vegetable / leafy green
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 6 inches between plants
Mature size: Usually under 1 ft (30 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Oct–Feb (cool season)
Start from your kitchen: Scatter kitchen mustard (rai) seeds on moist soil; cover with a thin layer of soil.
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Harvest little and often; resow every 3–4 weeks for a steady supply.
Potting mix: Leafy-greens mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of neem cake per pot (keeps soil pests away).
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Aphids, Caterpillars

Photo: Photo: Forest and Kim Starr · CC BY 3.0 us · Wikimedia Commons

Okra Beginner pick

Abelmoschus esculentus

Pods in about 45 days; very easy in warm weather.

Why it is a great choice: One of the easiest summer vegetables. Did you know? Its pods produce a natural thickener for soups.

Growing details and history

Origin: Ethiopia and West Africa.
Where it grows today: Grown in India (the largest producer), Nigeria, Sudan and the United States.
History: Brought to the Americas by the African diaspora.
On cold nights: Nights below 15°C slow growth.
Plant type: Vegetable / leafy green
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 1.5 ft between plants
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Feb–Sep (summer & monsoon)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Feed with compost every 3–4 weeks and water at the base, not on the leaves.
Potting mix: Vegetable mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 1 handful of bone meal per grow bag.
Homemade compost: Yes – it loves it. Use 25–30% mature compost in the potting mix, then top-dress with 1–2 handfuls every 3–4 weeks. Compost alone may not supply enough food for heavy croppers – add vermicompost or a balanced feed when it flowers and fruits.
Watch for: Whiteflies, Caterpillars, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Earth100 · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Onion Beginner pick

Allium cepa

Winter crop; bulbs in about 120 days.

Why it is a great choice: A staple crop for the cool season. Did you know? Ancient Egyptians worshipped onions.

Growing details and history

Origin: Central Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide; India and China are leading producers.
History: Cultivated for over 5,000 years.
On cold nights: Loves cool nights.
Plant type: Vegetable / leafy green
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 5 inches between plants
Mature size: Usually under 1 ft (30 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Oct–Feb (cool season)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Feed with compost every 3–4 weeks and water at the base, not on the leaves.
Potting mix: Loose root-crop mix: 30% garden soil, 30% cocopeat, 20% coarse sand, 20% compost. Natural add-on: a handful of neem cake; sieve out stones so roots grow straight.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Thrips, Root or stem rot

Photo: Photo: Acabashi · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Pigeon Pea Beginner pick

Cajanus cajan

Drought-hardy pulse crop for the garden edge.

Why it is a great choice: A protein-rich crop that improves soil. Did you know? It fixes nitrogen and improves the soil.

Growing details and history

Origin: India.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Myanmar, Malawi, Tanzania and Kenya.
History: Cultivated in India for over 3,500 years.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; frost damages it.
Plant type: Vegetable / leafy green
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 4 ft between plants
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Use a pot with drainage holes and a light, compost-rich mix.
Potting mix: Vegetable mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 1 handful of bone meal per grow bag.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Caterpillars

Photo: Photo: Forest and Kim Starr · CC BY 3.0 us · Wikimedia Commons

Pumpkin Beginner pick

Cucurbita maxima

Sprawling vine; give it open ground or a strong trellis.

Why it is a great choice: A rewarding crop for open ground. Did you know? Some pumpkins have weighed over 1,000 kg.

Growing details and history

Origin: South America.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide; China and India are leading producers.
History: Grown in the Americas for over 7,000 years.
On cold nights: Nights below 15°C slow growth.
Plant type: Vegetable / leafy green
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 8 ft between plants
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Feb–Sep (summer & monsoon)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Feed with compost every 3–4 weeks and water at the base, not on the leaves.
Potting mix: Vegetable mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 1 handful of bone meal per grow bag.
Homemade compost: Yes – it loves it. Use 25–30% mature compost in the potting mix, then top-dress with 1–2 handfuls every 3–4 weeks. Compost alone may not supply enough food for heavy croppers – add vermicompost or a balanced feed when it flowers and fruits.
Watch for: Fruit flies in fruit, Powdery mildew

Photo: Photo: Nino Barbieri · CC BY-SA 2.5 · Wikimedia Commons

Radish Beginner pick

Raphanus sativus

Roots ready in 30–40 days in deep grow bags.

Why it is a great choice: One of the fastest root crops. Did you know? Some radishes are ready in just 25 days.

Growing details and history

Origin: Southeast Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide.
History: Cultivated in Egypt before the pyramids were built.
On cold nights: Loves cool nights.
Plant type: Vegetable / leafy green
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 4 inches between plants
Mature size: Usually under 1 ft (30 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Oct–Feb (cool season)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Feed with compost every 3–4 weeks and water at the base, not on the leaves.
Potting mix: Loose root-crop mix: 30% garden soil, 30% cocopeat, 20% coarse sand, 20% compost. Natural add-on: a handful of neem cake; sieve out stones so roots grow straight.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Aphids

Photo: Photo: Thamizhpparithi Maari · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Sessile Joyweed (Water Amaranth) Beginner pick

Alternanthera sessilis

Traditional leafy green; grows in moist soil.

Why it is a great choice: An easy, nutritious leafy green for moist soil. Did you know? It grows naturally along riverbanks.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical regions worldwide.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia.
History: A traditional leafy green in South Asia.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth.
Plant type: Vegetable / leafy green
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Daily in summer – keep soil moist
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 6 inches between plants
Mature size: Usually under 1 ft (30 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Harvest little and often; resow every 3–4 weeks for a steady supply.
Potting mix: Leafy-greens mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of neem cake per pot (keeps soil pests away).
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Caterpillars

Photo: Photo: Jeevan Jose · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Spinach Beginner pick

Spinacia oleracea

Cut-and-come-again greens for the cool season.

Why it is a great choice: Cut-and-come-again greens that keep giving in the cool season. Did you know? It is rich in iron, folate and vitamin K.

Growing details and history

Origin: Central and Western Asia (ancient Persia).
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide; China is the largest producer.
History: Brought to Europe by the Moors in the 11th century.
On cold nights: Loves cool nights; bolts in heat.
Plant type: Vegetable / leafy green
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: undefined
Mature size: Usually under 1 ft (30 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Oct–Feb (cool season)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Harvest little and often; resow every 3–4 weeks for a steady supply.
Potting mix: Leafy-greens mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of neem cake per pot (keeps soil pests away).
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Leaf miners, Aphids

Photo: Photo: Kayser Ahmad · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Spring Onion Beginner pick

Allium fistulosum

Regrows from kitchen onion roots in a week.

Why it is a great choice: Endless greens from kitchen onion roots. Did you know? It regrows from its roots in water in about a week.

Growing details and history

Origin: China.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide.
History: Cultivated in China for over 2,000 years.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights well.
Plant type: Vegetable / leafy green
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: undefined
Mature size: Usually under 1 ft (30 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Start from your kitchen: Plant the root ends of onions (or small shallots) in soil – green shoots in a week.
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Harvest little and often; resow every 3–4 weeks for a steady supply.
Potting mix: Leafy-greens mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of neem cake per pot (keeps soil pests away).
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Thrips

Photo: Photo: Genmewcaugsa · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Sweet Corn Beginner pick

Zea mays

Sow in blocks for good pollination; cobs in 75–90 days.

Why it is a great choice: Sweet cobs from a sunny bed. Did you know? Each strand of silk leads to one kernel.

Growing details and history

Origin: Mexico.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide; the United States is the largest producer.
History: Domesticated from teosinte about 9,000 years ago.
On cold nights: Nights below 10°C slow growth.
Plant type: Vegetable / leafy green
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 2 ft between plants
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Feb–Sep (summer & monsoon)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Feed with compost every 3–4 weeks and water at the base, not on the leaves.
Potting mix: Vegetable mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 1 handful of bone meal per grow bag.
Homemade compost: Yes – it loves it. Use 25–30% mature compost in the potting mix, then top-dress with 1–2 handfuls every 3–4 weeks. Compost alone may not supply enough food for heavy croppers – add vermicompost or a balanced feed when it flowers and fruits.
Watch for: Caterpillars

Photo: Photo: Forest and Kim Starr · CC BY 3.0 us · Wikimedia Commons

Sweet Potato Beginner pick

Ipomoea batatas

Edible tubers and leaf tips; grow in deep bags.

Why it is a great choice: Two crops in one: leaves and tubers. Did you know? Its leaves are edible and highly nutritious.

Growing details and history

Origin: Central America and South America.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide; China is the largest producer.
History: Cultivated for over 5,000 years.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth; frost kills it.
Plant type: Vegetable / leafy green
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 2 ft between plants
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Start from your kitchen: Place a sweet potato half in water; plant the shoots (slips) once they root.
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Harvest little and often; resow every 3–4 weeks for a steady supply.
Potting mix: Loose root-crop mix: 30% garden soil, 30% cocopeat, 20% coarse sand, 20% compost. Natural add-on: a handful of neem cake; sieve out stones so roots grow straight.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Caterpillars

Photo: Photo: Kostka Martin · CC0 · Wikimedia Commons

Tomato Beginner pick

Solanum lycopersicum

One stake-supported plant per 15-inch grow bag.

Why it is a great choice: The most rewarding home vegetable – one plant gives fruit for months. Did you know? Botanically, a tomato is a berry.

Growing details and history

Origin: Western South America (Peru and Ecuador).
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide; China, India and the United States are leading producers.
History: Domesticated in Mexico and brought to Europe in the 1500s.
On cold nights: Nights below 10°C stop fruit setting.
Plant type: Vegetable / leafy green
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres.
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Start from your kitchen: Squeeze seeds from a ripe tomato, rinse, dry for a day and sow in a seed tray.
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Feed with compost every 3–4 weeks and water at the base, not on the leaves.
Potting mix: Vegetable mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 1 handful of bone meal per grow bag.
Homemade compost: Yes – it loves it. Use 25–30% mature compost in the potting mix, then top-dress with 1–2 handfuls every 3–4 weeks. Compost alone may not supply enough food for heavy croppers – add vermicompost or a balanced feed when it flowers and fruits.
Watch for: Whiteflies, Caterpillars, Fruit flies in fruit, Fungal leaf spots / blight

Photo: Photo: George Chernilevsky · CC BY 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Climbers & vines

Allamanda (Golden Trumpet) · Bengal Clock Vine · Betel Vine · Bitter Gourd · Bottle Gourd · Bougainvillea · Butterfly Pea · Cucumber · Cypress Vine · Flame Vine (Pyrostegia) · Heart-leaved Moonseed · Hyacinth Bean · Ivy Gourd · Malabar Spinach · Needle-flower Jasmine · Passion Fruit · Rangoon Creeper · Ridge Gourd · Spanish Jasmine · Yardlong Bean

Allamanda (Golden Trumpet) Beginner pick

Allamanda cathartica

Big yellow trumpets on a grille or fence; sap is mildly toxic.

Why it is a great choice: Huge golden trumpets that cover a fence or grille for months. Did you know? Its large trumpets are glossy, almost like polished brass.

Growing details and history

Origin: Brazil.
Where it grows today: Grown on fences and arches throughout the tropics.
History: Named after the Swiss botanist Frédéric-Louis Allamand, who collected plants in the 1700s.
On cold nights: Needs nights above 10°C.
Plant type: Climber / vine
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 4 ft between plants
Mature size: Climber – grows as far as its support allows (about 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m))
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Give it a grille, net or trellis from day one and tie in new shoots.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Billjones94 · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Bengal Clock Vine Beginner pick

Thunbergia grandiflora

Native blue-flowered vine that covers a wall quickly.

Why it is a great choice: A fast, flowering screen for walls and fences. Did you know? It can grow several metres in a single season.

Growing details and history

Origin: The Himalayas, southern China and Southeast Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as an ornamental vine.
History: A popular climber in tropical gardens.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth; frost damages it.
Plant type: Climber / vine
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 4 ft between plants
Mature size: Climber – grows as far as its support allows (about 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m))
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Give it a grille, net or trellis from day one and tie in new shoots.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Don McCulley · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Betel Vine

Piper betle

Glossy heart-shaped leaves on a climbing vine; needs shade and humidity.

Why it is a great choice: Lush, glossy leaves on an easy climbing vine. Did you know? Its leaves have a peppery taste – it is related to black pepper.

Growing details and history

Origin: Southeast Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Southeast Asia.
History: Used in South and Southeast Asian cultures for over 2,000 years.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth; protect from cold.
Plant type: Climber / vine
Sunlight: Bright light, no harsh sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 2 ft between plants
Mature size: Climber – grows as far as its support allows (about 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m))
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Give it a grille, net or trellis from day one and tie in new shoots.
Potting mix: Free-draining herb mix: 40% garden soil, 20% compost, 20% cocopeat, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: a small handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Root or stem rot, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

Bitter Gourd Beginner pick

Momordica charantia

Trellis vine; fruits in 2 months.

Why it is a great choice: A productive vine with a distinctive vegetable. Did you know? It is one of the most bitter vegetables.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, China, Southeast Asia and the Caribbean.
History: Cultivated in India and China for centuries.
On cold nights: Nights below 15°C slow growth.
Plant type: Climber / vine
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 5 ft between plants
Mature size: Climber – grows as far as its support allows (about 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m))
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Feb–Sep (summer & monsoon)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Give it a grille, net or trellis from day one and tie in new shoots.
Potting mix: Vegetable mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 1 handful of bone meal per grow bag.
Homemade compost: Yes – it loves it. Use 25–30% mature compost in the potting mix, then top-dress with 1–2 handfuls every 3–4 weeks. Compost alone may not supply enough food for heavy croppers – add vermicompost or a balanced feed when it flowers and fruits.
Watch for: Fruit flies in fruit, Aphids, Powdery mildew

Photo: Photo: Yercaud-elango · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Bottle Gourd Beginner pick

Lagenaria siceraria

Vigorous vine; needs a strong trellis.

Why it is a great choice: Abundant vegetables from one vigorous vine. Did you know? Dried gourds have been used as bottles and instruments.

Growing details and history

Origin: Africa.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide in warm regions.
History: One of the first plants cultivated by humans – over 10,000 years ago.
On cold nights: Nights below 15°C slow growth.
Plant type: Climber / vine
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 6 ft between plants
Mature size: Climber – grows as far as its support allows (about 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m))
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Feb–Sep (summer & monsoon)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Give it a grille, net or trellis from day one and tie in new shoots.
Potting mix: Vegetable mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 1 handful of bone meal per grow bag.
Homemade compost: Yes – it loves it. Use 25–30% mature compost in the potting mix, then top-dress with 1–2 handfuls every 3–4 weeks. Compost alone may not supply enough food for heavy croppers – add vermicompost or a balanced feed when it flowers and fruits.
Watch for: Fruit flies in fruit, Powdery mildew

Photo: Photo: カールおじさん · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Bougainvillea Beginner pick

Bougainvillea

Sheets of colour all year on very little water; thrives on hot terraces.

Why it is a great choice: It turns heat, sun and neglect into sheets of colour – ideal for terraces where other plants struggle. Did you know? The vivid "petals" are actually papery bracts; the true flowers are tiny white tubes in the centre.

Growing details and history

Origin: Brazil and the tropical forests of South America.
Where it grows today: Now a signature plant of the Mediterranean, India, Southeast Asia, Australia and the southern United States.
History: Named after French admiral Louis Antoine de Bougainville, whose 1760s voyage first recorded it for Europe.
On cold nights: Handles cool nights well and survives short spells near 5°C; frost damages new growth.
Plant type: Climber / vine
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 4 ft between plants
Mature size: Climber – grows as far as its support allows (about 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m))
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Thorny / spiny – keep away from play areas
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Give it a grille, net or trellis from day one and tie in new shoots.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Clint Budd · CC BY 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Butterfly Pea Beginner pick

Clitoria ternatea

Bright blue flowers on a light climber; makes blue herbal tea.

Why it is a great choice: Beautiful blue flowers and colour-changing tea. Did you know? Its tea turns from blue to purple when you add lemon.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Thailand, Malaysia and Latin America.
History: Used in Southeast Asian cuisine and traditional medicine.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth; slows in cold nights.
Plant type: Climber / vine
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 2 ft between plants
Mature size: Climber – grows as far as its support allows (about 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m))
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Give it a grille, net or trellis from day one and tie in new shoots.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Aphids

Photo: Photo: Suyash Dwivedi · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Cucumber Beginner pick

Cucumis sativus

Quick climbing cucumbers on a net.

Why it is a great choice: Quick, crisp cucumbers on a net. Did you know? A cucumber is about 95% water.

Growing details and history

Origin: South Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide; China is the largest producer.
History: Cultivated in India for over 3,000 years.
On cold nights: Nights below 15°C slow growth.
Plant type: Climber / vine
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 4 ft between plants
Mature size: Climber – grows as far as its support allows (about 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m))
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Feb–Sep (summer & monsoon)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Give it a grille, net or trellis from day one and tie in new shoots.
Potting mix: Vegetable mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 1 handful of bone meal per grow bag.
Homemade compost: Yes – it loves it. Use 25–30% mature compost in the potting mix, then top-dress with 1–2 handfuls every 3–4 weeks. Compost alone may not supply enough food for heavy croppers – add vermicompost or a balanced feed when it flowers and fruits.
Watch for: Fruit flies in fruit, Powdery mildew, Aphids

Photo: Photo: Stephen Ausmus, USDA ARS · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

Cypress Vine Beginner pick

Ipomoea quamoclit

Feathery climber with red star flowers; sunbirds visit.

Why it is a great choice: Delicate foliage and red stars that attract birds. Did you know? Its leaves are as fine as threads.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical America.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as an ornamental vine.
History: Grown in gardens for its feathery leaves and star flowers.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth; frost kills it.
Plant type: Climber / vine
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 2 ft between plants
Mature size: Climber – grows as far as its support allows (about 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m))
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: Grow Feb–Sep (summer & monsoon)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Give it a grille, net or trellis from day one and tie in new shoots.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Spider mites

Photo: Photo: opyadav (Flickr) · CC BY 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Flame Vine (Pyrostegia) Beginner pick

Pyrostegia venusta

Orange curtain of flowers on a terrace wall from Jan to Mar.

Why it is a great choice: A blazing orange curtain of flowers in the cooler months. Did you know? It flowers in winter, when few other climbers bloom.

Growing details and history

Origin: Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay and Argentina.
Where it grows today: Grown on walls and fences in warm countries worldwide.
History: Introduced to gardens in the 1800s as a winter-flowering climber.
On cold nights: Comfortable in cool nights – which actually trigger its flowering.
Plant type: Climber / vine
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 4 ft between plants
Mature size: Climber – grows as far as its support allows (about 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m))
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Give it a grille, net or trellis from day one and tie in new shoots.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: B.navez · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Heart-leaved Moonseed Beginner pick

Tinospora cordifolia

Fast heart-leaved climber used in traditional remedies.

Why it is a great choice: A vigorous, easy climber with a long tradition of use. Did you know? Its stems can root and grow even when cut off and hung in the air.

Growing details and history

Origin: The Indian subcontinent.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Sri Lanka and Myanmar.
History: Used in Ayurveda for centuries.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; slows in winter.
Plant type: Climber / vine
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 2 ft between plants
Mature size: Climber – grows as far as its support allows (about 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m))
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Give it a grille, net or trellis from day one and tie in new shoots.
Potting mix: Free-draining herb mix: 40% garden soil, 20% compost, 20% cocopeat, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: a small handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids

Photo: Photo: Tmd · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

Hyacinth Bean Beginner pick

Lablab purpureus

Cool-season climbing bean; flowers in autumn and winter.

Why it is a great choice: A beautiful and productive climbing bean. Did you know? Its purple pods turn green when cooked.

Growing details and history

Origin: Africa.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Africa and Southeast Asia.
History: Cultivated in India for thousands of years.
On cold nights: Loves cool nights; flowers best then.
Plant type: Climber / vine
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 5 ft between plants
Mature size: Climber – grows as far as its support allows (about 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m))
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Oct–Feb (cool season)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Give it a grille, net or trellis from day one and tie in new shoots.
Potting mix: Vegetable mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 1 handful of bone meal per grow bag.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Aphids, Caterpillars

Photo: Photo: Md. Mahian · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Ivy Gourd Beginner pick

Coccinia grandis

Perennial vine that fruits for years from one cutting.

Why it is a great choice: A long-lived vine that fruits for years. Did you know? One cutting can fruit for years.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical Africa and Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Southeast Asia and Africa.
History: A traditional vegetable across South Asia.
On cold nights: Rests in cold weather.
Plant type: Climber / vine
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 6 ft between plants
Mature size: Climber – grows as far as its support allows (about 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m))
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Give it a grille, net or trellis from day one and tie in new shoots.
Potting mix: Vegetable mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 1 handful of bone meal per grow bag.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Fruit flies in fruit, Mealybugs

Photo: Photo: Forest and Kim Starr · CC BY 3.0 us · Wikimedia Commons

Malabar Spinach Beginner pick

Basella alba

Juicy climbing spinach; one vine feeds a family.

Why it is a great choice: A vigorous, productive leafy green. Did you know? Its leaves are thick and juicy.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Southeast Asia, Africa and Brazil.
History: A traditional leafy green in Asia and Africa.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth; frost kills it.
Plant type: Climber / vine
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 2 ft between plants
Mature size: Climber – grows as far as its support allows (about 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m))
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Feb–Sep (summer & monsoon)
Start from your kitchen: Root a stem cutting from a market bunch in water, then plant it.
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Give it a grille, net or trellis from day one and tie in new shoots.
Potting mix: Leafy-greens mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of neem cake per pot (keeps soil pests away).
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Fungal leaf spots / blight, Snails and slugs

Photo: Photo: CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Needle-flower Jasmine Beginner pick

Jasminum auriculatum

Small fragrant buds; flowers from spring to autumn.

Why it is a great choice: Fragrant flowers on a vigorous climber. Did you know? Its buds are picked before they open.

Growing details and history

Origin: India.
Where it grows today: Grown in India and Southeast Asia.
History: Cultivated for its flowers for centuries.
On cold nights: Rests in cold weather.
Plant type: Climber / vine
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 2 ft between plants
Mature size: Climber – grows as far as its support allows (about 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m))
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Give it a grille, net or trellis from day one and tie in new shoots.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: J.M.Garg · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Passion Fruit

Passiflora edulis

Fruiting climber that also shades a pergola.

Why it is a great choice: Fragrant fruit and shade from one climber. Did you know? Its flower has an intricate, crown-like structure.

Growing details and history

Origin: Southern Brazil, Paraguay and northern Argentina.
Where it grows today: Grown in Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Kenya and India.
History: Spanish missionaries saw symbols of the Passion in its flowers.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; protect from frost.
Plant type: Climber / vine
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions; Highlands
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 10 ft between plants
Mature size: Climber – grows as far as its support allows (about 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m))
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Give it a grille, net or trellis from day one and tie in new shoots.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Fruit flies in fruit, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

Rangoon Creeper Beginner pick

Combretum indicum

Fragrant red-white clusters at dusk on a grille or arch.

Why it is a great choice: Fragrant, colour-changing flowers on a vigorous vine. Did you know? Its flowers change from white to pink to red over three days.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide in tropical gardens.
History: Grown in Asian gardens for centuries.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth; slows in cold.
Plant type: Climber / vine
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 4 ft between plants
Mature size: Climber – grows as far as its support allows (about 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m))
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Give it a grille, net or trellis from day one and tie in new shoots.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Prenn · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Ridge Gourd Beginner pick

Luffa acutangula

Easy trellis vegetable for terraces.

Why it is a great choice: A fast vine with two uses – food and natural sponges. Did you know? Mature fruit can be dried and used as a natural sponge.

Growing details and history

Origin: The Indian subcontinent.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, China and Southeast Asia.
History: Cultivated in Asia for centuries.
On cold nights: Nights below 15°C slow growth.
Plant type: Climber / vine
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 6 ft between plants
Mature size: Climber – grows as far as its support allows (about 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m))
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Feb–Sep (summer & monsoon)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Give it a grille, net or trellis from day one and tie in new shoots.
Potting mix: Vegetable mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 1 handful of bone meal per grow bag.
Homemade compost: Yes – it loves it. Use 25–30% mature compost in the potting mix, then top-dress with 1–2 handfuls every 3–4 weeks. Compost alone may not supply enough food for heavy croppers – add vermicompost or a balanced feed when it flowers and fruits.
Watch for: Fruit flies in fruit, Powdery mildew

Photo: Photo: Nayan j Nath · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Spanish Jasmine Beginner pick

Jasminum grandiflorum

Delicate star flowers with the classic jasmine scent; trains on a grille.

Why it is a great choice: Classic jasmine fragrance on a graceful vine. Did you know? Thousands of hand-picked flowers are needed for a single gram of jasmine perfume oil.

Growing details and history

Origin: South Asia and the Arabian Peninsula.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, France, Egypt and Morocco.
History: Its oil is a key ingredient in many famous perfumes.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights.
Plant type: Climber / vine
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 2 ft between plants
Mature size: Climber – grows as far as its support allows (about 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m))
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Give it a grille, net or trellis from day one and tie in new shoots.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Juan Carlos Fonseca Mata · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Yardlong Bean Beginner pick

Vigna unguiculata subsp. sesquipedalis

Climbing beans on a net; heavy cropper.

Why it is a great choice: A heavy cropper that climbs a net. Did you know? Its pods can grow 50–90 cm long.

Growing details and history

Origin: Africa.
Where it grows today: Grown across Southeast Asia, China, India and the Caribbean.
History: Cultivated in Asia for over 2,000 years.
On cold nights: Nights below 15°C slow growth.
Plant type: Climber / vine
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 3 ft between plants
Mature size: Climber – grows as far as its support allows (about 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m))
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Feb–Sep (summer & monsoon)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Give it a grille, net or trellis from day one and tie in new shoots.
Potting mix: Vegetable mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 1 handful of bone meal per grow bag.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Aphids, Caterpillars

Photo: Photo: David · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

Fruit plants

Bael Tree · Banana (Dwarf Cavendish) · Bengal Currant (Carissa) · Cashew · Cocoa · Coconut (Dwarf) · Coffee (Arabica) · Custard Apple · Date Palm · Dragon Fruit · Fig · Guava · Indian Gooseberry · Indian Jujube · Jackfruit · Java Plum · Key Lime · Lemon (Dwarf) · Mango (Grafted) · Mulberry · Muskmelon · Papaya · Pineapple · Pomegranate · Sapodilla · Strawberry · Sweet Orange · Tamarind · Watermelon · Wood Apple

Bael Tree Beginner pick

Aegle marmelos

Hardy tree with sacred trifoliate leaves; fruit used for summer drinks.

Why it is a great choice: A tough, long-lived tree with refreshing fruit. Did you know? Its fruit has a hard woody shell that must be cracked with a hammer.

Growing details and history

Origin: The Indian subcontinent.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Southeast Asia.
History: Considered sacred in India for thousands of years.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; drops leaves in winter.
Plant type: Fruit plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 25 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Thorny / spiny – keep away from play areas
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Fruit flies in fruit, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: A. J. T. Johnsingh, WWF-India and NCF · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Banana (Dwarf Cavendish) Beginner pick

Musa acuminata

Fruit within a year; needs plenty of water.

Why it is a great choice: Fruit within a year from a compact plant. Did you know? Botanically, the banana plant is a giant herb.

Growing details and history

Origin: Southeast Asia and Papua New Guinea.
Where it grows today: Grown in India (the largest producer), China, Indonesia, Brazil and Ecuador.
History: Cultivated for over 7,000 years.
On cold nights: Nights below 10°C slow growth and blacken leaves.
Plant type: Fruit plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Daily in summer – keep soil moist
Suitable climate: Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 6 ft between plants
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Feed with compost every 3–4 weeks and water at the base, not on the leaves.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Fruit flies in fruit, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Miya.m · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Bengal Currant (Carissa) Beginner pick

Carissa carandas

Thorny fruiting hedge with tart berries.

Why it is a great choice: A protective hedge that also gives fruit. Did you know? Its berries turn from white to purple-black.

Growing details and history

Origin: The Indian subcontinent.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Myanmar.
History: Used in traditional cooking for centuries.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights.
Plant type: Fruit plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 8 ft between plants
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Thorny / spiny – keep away from play areas
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Feed with compost every 3–4 weeks and water at the base, not on the leaves.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Fruit flies in fruit, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Sakurai Midori · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Cashew Beginner pick

Anacardium occidentale

Hardy coastal fruit-and-nut tree for poor soils.

Why it is a great choice: A hardy tree that yields both fruit and nuts. Did you know? Each nut grows outside its fruit.

Growing details and history

Origin: Northeastern Brazil.
Where it grows today: Grown in Côte d'Ivoire, India, Vietnam and Brazil.
History: Portuguese traders brought it to India in the 1500s.
On cold nights: Sensitive to cold; best in frost-free regions.
Plant type: Fruit plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Tropical regions; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 25 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Fruit flies in fruit, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Royalesignature · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Cocoa

Theobroma cacao

Only for humid coastal shade gardens.

Why it is a great choice: Grow the tree that gives us chocolate. Did you know? Its flowers grow directly on the trunk and are pollinated by tiny midges.

Growing details and history

Origin: The Amazon basin.
Where it grows today: Grown in Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana, Indonesia, Ecuador and India.
History: The Maya and Aztecs drank chocolate over 3,000 years ago.
On cold nights: Needs warm nights above 15°C.
Plant type: Fruit plant
Sunlight: Shade or indirect light
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Tropical regions; Humid regions; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 10 ft between plants
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹₹ Premium (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Feed with compost every 3–4 weeks and water at the base, not on the leaves.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Fruit flies in fruit, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Luisovalles · CC BY 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Coconut (Dwarf) Beginner pick

Cocos nucifera

Tender coconuts in 4–5 years; best in coastal humidity.

Why it is a great choice: Fresh tender coconuts from a compact palm. Did you know? Coconuts can float across oceans and still sprout.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical Asia and the Pacific.
Where it grows today: Grown in Indonesia, the Philippines, India, Sri Lanka and Brazil.
History: Called the "tree of life" because every part is useful.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth; cold nights below 15°C slow growth.
Plant type: Fruit plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Tropical regions; Humid regions; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 25 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Fruit flies in fruit, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Judgefloro · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Coffee (Arabica)

Coffea arabica

For hill gardens with cool, misty weather.

Why it is a great choice: A beautiful shrub with fragrant flowers and red berries. Did you know? Each coffee cherry contains two beans.

Growing details and history

Origin: The highlands of Ethiopia.
Where it grows today: Grown in Brazil, Vietnam, Colombia, Ethiopia and India.
History: Legend says a goatherd discovered coffee when his goats ate the berries.
On cold nights: Loves cool nights; protect from frost.
Plant type: Fruit plant
Sunlight: 2–4 hours of gentle sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Highlands
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 8 ft between plants
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹₹ Premium (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Feed with compost every 3–4 weeks and water at the base, not on the leaves.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Fruit flies in fruit, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Marcelo Corrêa · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Custard Apple Beginner pick

Annona squamosa

Sweet fruit that ripens in late summer and autumn on little water.

Why it is a great choice: Creamy, sweet fruit on a small, drought-tolerant tree. Did you know? Each fruit is made of many fused segments, like a pine cone.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical America and the Caribbean.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Brazil, Taiwan, Thailand and Africa.
History: Spread from the Americas to Asia by Portuguese traders.
On cold nights: Drops leaves in cool weather; tolerates nights near 5°C.
Plant type: Fruit plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 15 ft between plants
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Feed with compost every 3–4 weeks and water at the base, not on the leaves.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Fruit flies in fruit, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Muhammad Mahdi Karim · GFDL 1.2 · Wikimedia Commons

Date Palm Beginner pick

Phoenix dactylifera

Dry-climate fruit palm; spiny leaves.

Why it is a great choice: A stately fruit palm for dry, hot climates. Did you know? A date palm can live and fruit for over 100 years.

Growing details and history

Origin: The Middle East and North Africa.
Where it grows today: Grown in Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, the UAE and California.
History: Cultivated for over 7,000 years – one of the oldest fruit crops.
On cold nights: Tolerates cold desert nights and light frost.
Plant type: Fruit plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 25 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Thorny / spiny – keep away from play areas
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Fruit flies in fruit, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Nepenthes · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Dragon Fruit Beginner pick

Selenicereus undatus

Cactus fruit on a concrete post; suits dry terraces.

Why it is a great choice: Exotic fruit from a drought-tolerant cactus. Did you know? It is a cactus that climbs trees.

Growing details and history

Origin: Central America and Mexico.
Where it grows today: Grown in Vietnam, Thailand, China, Israel and India.
History: Became a global fruit in the 2000s.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; protect from frost.
Plant type: Fruit plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 8 ft between plants
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Feed with compost every 3–4 weeks and water at the base, not on the leaves.
Potting mix: Gritty succulent mix: 30% garden soil, 40% coarse sand, 20% brick pieces or perlite, 10% compost. Natural add-on: nothing else – rich soil rots succulents.
Homemade compost: Yes, a little: at most 10% sieved, mature compost in a gritty mix. Too much keeps the soil wet and rots succulents.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Root or stem rot

Photo: Photo: Gaurav Dhwaj Khadka · CC BY 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Fig

Ficus carica

Fruits in a large container in dry climates.

Why it is a great choice: Sweet fruit even in a large container. Did you know? A fig is an inverted flower.

Growing details and history

Origin: Western Asia and the Mediterranean.
Where it grows today: Grown in Turkey, Egypt, Morocco, Algeria and the United States.
History: One of the first domesticated plants, over 11,000 years ago.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; drops leaves in winter.
Plant type: Fruit plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 12 ft between plants
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Feed with compost every 3–4 weeks and water at the base, not on the leaves.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Fruit flies in fruit, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Stefan Thiesen · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Guava Beginner pick

Psidium guajava

Easy home fruit; fruits in a 20-inch pot or drum on a terrace.

Why it is a great choice: One of the easiest fruit trees for a home garden – it fruits even in a large pot. Did you know? It has four times more vitamin C than an orange.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical Central and South America.
Where it grows today: Grown in India (the largest producer), China, Thailand, Indonesia, Pakistan and Brazil.
History: Spread worldwide by Spanish and Portuguese explorers in the 1500s.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; sweetest fruit comes in winter.
Plant type: Fruit plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 18 ft between plants
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Feed with compost every 3–4 weeks and water at the base, not on the leaves.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Fruit flies in fruit, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Jeevan Jose, Kerala, India · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Indian Gooseberry Beginner pick

Phyllanthus emblica

Vitamin C-rich fruit on a hardy, attractive tree.

Why it is a great choice: A superfruit for your own garden, on an elegant, feathery tree. Did you know? It contains up to 20 times more vitamin C than an orange.

Growing details and history

Origin: South and Southeast Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar and southern China.
History: A key ingredient in traditional Ayurvedic tonics for thousands of years.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; drops leaves in winter.
Plant type: Fruit plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 20 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Fruit flies in fruit, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Thamizhpparithi Maari · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Indian Jujube Beginner pick

Ziziphus mauritiana

Drought-proof fruit tree with sweet-tart fruit in winter.

Why it is a great choice: A tough, drought-proof fruit tree. Did you know? Its fruit tastes like an apple when fresh and a date when dried.

Growing details and history

Origin: South and Southeast Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, China, Africa and Australia.
History: Cultivated in India for over 4,000 years.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights well.
Plant type: Fruit plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 20 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Thorny / spiny – keep away from play areas
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Fruit flies in fruit, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Augustus Binu · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Jackfruit

Artocarpus heterophyllus

Large humid-climate fruit tree.

Why it is a great choice: A giant, delicious fruit and dense shade for large gardens in humid climates. Did you know? It is the largest tree-borne fruit in the world – a single fruit can weigh over 40 kg.

Growing details and history

Origin: The rainforests of the Western Ghats in southern India.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Bangladesh (its national fruit), Sri Lanka, Thailand and Brazil.
History: Cultivated in India for over 3,000 years.
On cold nights: Sensitive to cold; best in frost-free, humid climates.
Plant type: Fruit plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 30 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Fruit flies in fruit, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Tushar Hossain · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Java Plum Beginner pick

Syzygium cumini

Native fruit tree with purple berries; birds love it.

Why it is a great choice: A fast, hardy shade tree with delicious summer fruit. Did you know? Its fruit turns your tongue purple.

Growing details and history

Origin: The Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia and parts of Africa.
History: Its fruits are mentioned in ancient Indian texts.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights well.
Plant type: Fruit plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 25 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Fruit flies in fruit, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Ton Rulkens · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Key Lime Beginner pick

Citrus aurantiifolia

Heavy-cropping lime for daily use.

Why it is a great choice: Abundant, aromatic limes for the kitchen. Did you know? It is more acidic and aromatic than larger limes.

Growing details and history

Origin: Southeast Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Mexico, Egypt, Brazil and the Caribbean.
History: Carried by British sailors to prevent scurvy.
On cold nights: Sensitive to cold; protect from frost.
Plant type: Fruit plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 18 ft between plants
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Thorny / spiny – keep away from play areas
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Feed with compost every 3–4 weeks and water at the base, not on the leaves.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Fruit flies in fruit, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Dinesh Valke · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Lemon (Dwarf) Beginner pick

Citrus limon

A steady supply of fresh lemons from a large pot; thorny stems.

Why it is a great choice: Fresh lemons for the kitchen from a single pot on a sunny balcony. Did you know? A healthy dwarf lemon can flower and fruit at the same time, all year.

Growing details and history

Origin: Northeastern India, northern Myanmar and China.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Mexico, Argentina, Spain, the United States and Turkey.
History: Arab traders brought lemons to the Mediterranean around the 10th century.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; protect from frost.
Plant type: Fruit plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 12 ft between plants
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Thorny / spiny – keep away from play areas
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Feed with compost every 3–4 weeks and water at the base, not on the leaves.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Fruit flies in fruit, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: André Karwath aka Aka · CC BY-SA 2.5 · Wikimedia Commons

Mango (Grafted) Beginner pick

Mangifera indica

Grafted varieties fruit in three to four years.

Why it is a great choice: The "king of fruits" from your own garden. Did you know? India grows over 1,000 mango varieties.

Growing details and history

Origin: South Asia and Myanmar.
Where it grows today: Grown in India (the largest producer), Indonesia, China, Pakistan, Mexico and Brazil.
History: Cultivated in India for over 4,000 years; the national fruit of India, Pakistan and the Philippines.
On cold nights: Cold nights during flowering can reduce fruit set.
Plant type: Fruit plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 30 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Fruit flies in fruit, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Billjones94 · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Mulberry Beginner pick

Morus alba

Fruits in a large pot within a year.

Why it is a great choice: Sweet berries in a large pot within a year. Did you know? Silkworms feed only on mulberry leaves.

Growing details and history

Origin: Northern China.
Where it grows today: Grown in China, India, Iran and Turkey.
History: Its leaves have fed silkworms for over 4,000 years.
On cold nights: Very tolerant of cold.
Plant type: Fruit plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 12 ft between plants
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Feed with compost every 3–4 weeks and water at the base, not on the leaves.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Fruit flies in fruit, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Mokkie · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Muskmelon Beginner pick

Cucumis melo

Sweet summer melon; needs dry weather at ripening.

Why it is a great choice: Sweet, fragrant melons in summer. Did you know? Its netted skin helps you tell when it is ripe.

Growing details and history

Origin: Persia and Central Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide.
History: Cultivated for over 4,000 years.
On cold nights: Nights below 15°C slow growth.
Plant type: Fruit plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 5 ft between plants
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Feb–Sep (summer & monsoon)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Feed with compost every 3–4 weeks and water at the base, not on the leaves.
Potting mix: Vegetable mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 1 handful of bone meal per grow bag.
Homemade compost: Yes – it loves it. Use 25–30% mature compost in the potting mix, then top-dress with 1–2 handfuls every 3–4 weeks. Compost alone may not supply enough food for heavy croppers – add vermicompost or a balanced feed when it flowers and fruits.
Watch for: Fruit flies in fruit, Powdery mildew

Photo: Photo: Salil Kumar Mukherjee · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Papaya Beginner pick

Carica papaya

Fruits within a year; needs a warm, wind-sheltered spot.

Why it is a great choice: Fruit within a year from seed – one of the fastest fruit plants you can grow. Did you know? Papaya contains papain, a natural enzyme used to tenderise meat.

Growing details and history

Origin: Southern Mexico and Central America.
Where it grows today: Grown in India (the largest producer), Brazil, Indonesia, Nigeria and Mexico.
History: Spanish and Portuguese sailors spread it across the tropics in the 1500s.
On cold nights: Sensitive to cold; nights below 10°C slow fruit ripening.
Plant type: Fruit plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Tropical regions; Humid regions; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 7 ft between plants
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Feed with compost every 3–4 weeks and water at the base, not on the leaves.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Fruit flies in fruit, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Maina Tudu · CC0 · Wikimedia Commons

Pineapple Beginner pick

Ananas comosus

Grows from a fruit crown; fruits in 18 months.

Why it is a great choice: A fun, easy fruit grown from a supermarket fruit crown. Did you know? A pineapple plant produces only one fruit at a time.

Growing details and history

Origin: South America (Brazil and Paraguay).
Where it grows today: Grown in Costa Rica, the Philippines, Brazil, Indonesia and India.
History: Europeans paid fortunes for pineapples in the 1600s; they became a symbol of hospitality.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth; protect from cold.
Plant type: Fruit plant
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres. · in the ground, about 2 ft between plants
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Feed with compost every 3–4 weeks and water at the base, not on the leaves.
Potting mix: Gritty succulent mix: 30% garden soil, 40% coarse sand, 20% brick pieces or perlite, 10% compost. Natural add-on: nothing else – rich soil rots succulents.
Homemade compost: Yes, a little: at most 10% sieved, mature compost in a gritty mix. Too much keeps the soil wet and rots succulents.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Root or stem rot

Photo: Photo: Suniltg · CC BY 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Pomegranate Beginner pick

Punica granatum

Red flowers followed by jewel-like fruit; ideal for dry, sunny terraces.

Why it is a great choice: Beautiful flowers and healthy fruit on a compact, drought-tolerant shrub. Did you know? A single fruit can hold more than 600 juicy seeds.

Growing details and history

Origin: Iran and the region south of the Caspian Sea.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Iran, Turkey, Spain, the United States and China.
History: One of the oldest cultivated fruits – it appears in ancient Egyptian tombs and Greek mythology.
On cold nights: Very tolerant of cold nights and survives light frost.
Plant type: Fruit plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 15 ft between plants
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Fruit flies in fruit, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Shrinivaskulkarni1388 · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Sapodilla Beginner pick

Manilkara zapota

Evergreen fruit tree that fruits twice a year.

Why it is a great choice: Sweet, malty fruit on a tough evergreen tree. Did you know? Chewing gum was originally made from its sap.

Growing details and history

Origin: Southern Mexico and Central America.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Mexico, Thailand, Indonesia and the Philippines.
History: Its sap, chicle, was the original base of chewing gum.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; protect from frost.
Plant type: Fruit plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 25 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Fruit flies in fruit, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Sugeesh · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Strawberry

Fragaria × ananassa

Grow Nov–Mar in pots or hanging baskets; fruits in about 10 weeks.

Why it is a great choice: Sweet berries from pots or hanging baskets. Did you know? It is the only fruit with its seeds on the outside.

Growing details and history

Origin: France (bred from American species in the 1700s).
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide; China and the United States are leading producers.
History: The modern strawberry was bred in France in the 1750s.
On cold nights: Loves cool nights; flowers and fruits best then.
Plant type: Fruit plant
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: undefined
Mature size: Usually under 1 ft (30 cm)
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Oct–Feb (cool season)
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Use a pot with drainage holes and a light, compost-rich mix.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Fruit flies in fruit, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Shixart1985 · CC BY 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Sweet Orange Beginner pick

Citrus × sinensis

Grafted plants fruit in three to four years.

Why it is a great choice: Fresh juice from your own tree. Did you know? It is a hybrid of pomelo and mandarin.

Growing details and history

Origin: Southern China and Southeast Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown in Brazil, China, India, the United States and Mexico.
History: Spread along trade routes to the Mediterranean.
On cold nights: Cool nights sweeten the fruit.
Plant type: Fruit plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 18 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Thorny / spiny – keep away from play areas
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Fruit flies in fruit, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Zeynel Cebeci · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Tamarind Beginner pick

Tamarindus indica

Long-lived kitchen tree; needs a big plot.

Why it is a great choice: A long-lived tree that provides shade and a valuable fruit for cooking. Did you know? A single tree can produce up to 200 kg of fruit per year.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical Africa.
Where it grows today: Grown across India, Southeast Asia, Africa and Latin America.
History: Arab traders called it "tamar hindi" – date of India.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; frost damages young trees.
Plant type: Fruit plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 35 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Fruit flies in fruit, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: J-C-MOYENGA · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Watermelon Beginner pick

Citrullus lanatus

Summer fruit on sandy loam; sow Jan–Feb.

Why it is a great choice: A sweet summer treat from open ground. Did you know? It is about 92% water.

Growing details and history

Origin: Africa.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide; China is the largest producer.
History: Cultivated in Egypt over 4,000 years ago.
On cold nights: Nights below 15°C slow growth.
Plant type: Fruit plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 6 ft between plants
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Feb–Sep (summer & monsoon)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Feed with compost every 3–4 weeks and water at the base, not on the leaves.
Potting mix: Vegetable mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 1 handful of bone meal per grow bag.
Homemade compost: Yes – it loves it. Use 25–30% mature compost in the potting mix, then top-dress with 1–2 handfuls every 3–4 weeks. Compost alone may not supply enough food for heavy croppers – add vermicompost or a balanced feed when it flowers and fruits.
Watch for: Fruit flies in fruit, Powdery mildew, Aphids

Photo: Photo: Famartin · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Wood Apple Beginner pick

Limonia acidissima

Hard-shelled fruit with tangy pulp; very drought-hardy.

Why it is a great choice: A hardy fruit tree that thrives with little water. Did you know? Its shell is so hard it must be cracked like a coconut.

Growing details and history

Origin: India and Sri Lanka.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Southeast Asia.
History: Used in traditional medicine and cooking for centuries.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights and drought.
Plant type: Fruit plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 25 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Thorny / spiny – keep away from play areas
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Fruit flies in fruit, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Vijay Barve · CC BY 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Herbs & spices

Aloe Vera · Ashwagandha (Winter Cherry) · Black Pepper Vine · Chives · Curry Leaf · Fennel · Ginger · Henna · Holy Basil · Indian Borage · Lemongrass · Leucas · Mint · Parsley · Porcupine Flower (Barleria) · Sweet Basil · Sweet Marjoram · Turmeric · Water Hyssop

Aloe Vera Beginner pick

Aloe vera

Gel for skin care; needs a sunny window indoors.

Why it is a great choice: Soothing gel for skin care from a plant that needs almost no attention. Did you know? Its leaves are about 96% water.

Growing details and history

Origin: The Arabian Peninsula.
Where it grows today: Grown in Mexico, India, the Caribbean, the Mediterranean and worldwide as a houseplant.
History: Ancient Egyptians called it the "plant of immortality".
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; protect from frost.
Plant type: Herb / spice
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres. · in the ground, about 1 ft between plants
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Gritty succulent mix: 30% garden soil, 40% coarse sand, 20% brick pieces or perlite, 10% compost. Natural add-on: nothing else – rich soil rots succulents.
Homemade compost: Yes, a little: at most 10% sieved, mature compost in a gritty mix. Too much keeps the soil wet and rots succulents.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Root or stem rot

Photo: Photo: Praneethpjv · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Ashwagandha (Winter Cherry) Beginner pick

Withania somnifera

Hardy medicinal herb for dry climates.

Why it is a great choice: A tough, low-water herb with a long tradition of use. Did you know? Its name means "smell of the horse", from the scent of its roots.

Growing details and history

Origin: India, the Middle East and North Africa.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Africa.
History: Used in Ayurveda for over 3,000 years; now popular worldwide as a supplement.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; protect from frost.
Plant type: Herb / spice
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres. · in the ground, about 1 ft between plants
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Use a pot with drainage holes and a light, compost-rich mix.
Potting mix: Free-draining herb mix: 40% garden soil, 20% compost, 20% cocopeat, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: a small handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Spider mites, Mealybugs

Photo: Photo: SAplants · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Black Pepper Vine

Piper nigrum

Climbs a tree trunk in humid shade.

Why it is a great choice: Your own supply of the world's most traded spice. Did you know? Black, white and green pepper all come from the same plant.

Growing details and history

Origin: The Western Ghats of southern India.
Where it grows today: Grown in Vietnam, Indonesia, India, Brazil and Sri Lanka.
History: Called "black gold" – it was traded along ancient spice routes.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth; protect from cold.
Plant type: Herb / spice
Sunlight: 2–4 hours of gentle sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 8 ft between plants
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Use a pot with drainage holes and a light, compost-rich mix.
Potting mix: Free-draining herb mix: 40% garden soil, 20% compost, 20% cocopeat, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: a small handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs

Photo: Photo: Dcrjsr · CC BY 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Chives Beginner pick

Allium schoenoprasum

Mild onion leaves for the cool season.

Why it is a great choice: Mild onion flavour, snipped fresh from a small pot. Did you know? Its purple flowers are edible and taste of mild onion.

Growing details and history

Origin: Europe and Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide.
History: Used in Chinese cooking for thousands of years.
On cold nights: Loves cool nights; survives frost.
Plant type: Herb / spice
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: undefined
Mature size: Usually under 1 ft (30 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Oct–Feb (cool season)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Harvest little and often; resow every 3–4 weeks for a steady supply.
Potting mix: Free-draining herb mix: 40% garden soil, 20% compost, 20% cocopeat, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: a small handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Aphids

Photo: Photo: Ivar Leidus · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Curry Leaf Beginner pick

Murraya koenigii

Aromatic leaves for everyday cooking; host plant for swallowtail butterflies.

Why it is a great choice: Fresh aromatic leaves for daily cooking, just outside your door. Did you know? Lime butterflies lay their eggs on its leaves, so your plant becomes a butterfly nursery.

Growing details and history

Origin: The Indian subcontinent.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia and the Caribbean.
History: Used in South Asian cooking for centuries.
On cold nights: Drops some leaves in cold nights; regrows in spring.
Plant type: Herb / spice
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 6 ft between plants
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Harvest little and often; resow every 3–4 weeks for a steady supply.
Potting mix: Free-draining herb mix: 40% garden soil, 20% compost, 20% cocopeat, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: a small handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs

Photo: Photo: Flocci Nivis · CC BY 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Fennel Beginner pick

Foeniculum vulgare

Grows from kitchen fennel seeds; feathery leaves for flavour.

Why it is a great choice: Feathery, aromatic leaves for cooking. Did you know? All parts of the plant are edible.

Growing details and history

Origin: The Mediterranean.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide.
History: Used by ancient Greeks and Romans.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; protect from frost.
Plant type: Herb / spice
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Oct–Feb (cool season)
Start from your kitchen: Sow whole kitchen fennel (saunf) seeds 1 cm deep.
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Harvest little and often; resow every 3–4 weeks for a steady supply.
Potting mix: Free-draining herb mix: 40% garden soil, 20% compost, 20% cocopeat, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: a small handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Aphids

Photo: Photo: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Ginger

Zingiber officinale

Plant a sprouted rhizome in May; harvest in winter.

Why it is a great choice: Fresh ginger from a single sprouted piece. Did you know? It is a rhizome, not a root.

Growing details and history

Origin: Maritime Southeast Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, China, Nigeria, Nepal and Indonesia.
History: Traded to Rome over 2,000 years ago.
On cold nights: Rests in cold weather.
Plant type: Herb / spice
Sunlight: 2–4 hours of gentle sun
Watering: Daily in summer – keep soil moist
Suitable climate: Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres. · in the ground, about 1 ft between plants
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Feb–Sep (summer & monsoon)
Start from your kitchen: Plant a plump piece of kitchen ginger with visible buds, 3 cm deep.
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Use a pot with drainage holes and a light, compost-rich mix.
Potting mix: Loose root-crop mix: 30% garden soil, 30% cocopeat, 20% coarse sand, 20% compost. Natural add-on: a handful of neem cake; sieve out stones so roots grow straight.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Root or stem rot, Caterpillars

Photo: Photo: H. Zell · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Henna Beginner pick

Lawsonia inermis

Leaves for natural hair and skin dye; makes a good hedge.

Why it is a great choice: Fresh, natural dye leaves from a tidy hedge. Did you know? Its dye molecule binds to the protein in skin, hair and nails.

Growing details and history

Origin: North Africa and Southwest Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Pakistan, Egypt, Sudan and Morocco.
History: Used for body art and hair dye for thousands of years.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights and drought.
Plant type: Herb / spice
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 3 ft between plants
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Use a pot with drainage holes and a light, compost-rich mix.
Potting mix: Free-draining herb mix: 40% garden soil, 20% compost, 20% cocopeat, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: a small handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs

Photo: Photo: Dinesh Valke · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Holy Basil Beginner pick

Ocimum tenuiflorum

Aromatic, sacred basil; needs at least four hours of sun.

Why it is a great choice: A fragrant herb for tea and wellness, with deep cultural meaning. Did you know? Its aroma comes from eugenol, the same compound found in cloves.

Growing details and history

Origin: The Indian subcontinent.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Nepal, Thailand, Malaysia and worldwide as a herb.
History: Revered in India for over 3,000 years and grown in courtyards of countless homes.
On cold nights: Sensitive to cold; nights below 10°C cause leaf drop.
Plant type: Herb / spice
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres. · in the ground, about 1 ft between plants
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Start from your kitchen: Collect seeds from a flowering holy basil plant and sprinkle them on moist soil.
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Harvest little and often; resow every 3–4 weeks for a steady supply.
Potting mix: Free-draining herb mix: 40% garden soil, 20% compost, 20% cocopeat, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: a small handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Caterpillars

Photo: Photo: Shashidhara halady · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Indian Borage Beginner pick

Coleus amboinicus

Thick, aromatic leaves for home remedies and cooking; very easy.

Why it is a great choice: An almost effortless aromatic herb for pots. Did you know? Its leaves smell like oregano and thyme combined.

Growing details and history

Origin: Southern and eastern Africa.
Where it grows today: Grown across India, Southeast Asia and the Caribbean.
History: Used in traditional medicine across the tropics.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth; protect from cold.
Plant type: Herb / spice
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres. · in the ground, about 1 ft between plants
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Harvest little and often; resow every 3–4 weeks for a steady supply.
Potting mix: Free-draining herb mix: 40% garden soil, 20% compost, 20% cocopeat, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: a small handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Root or stem rot

Photo: Photo: Sajetpa · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

Lemongrass Beginner pick

Cymbopogon citratus

Fresh lemony tea leaves; one clump is plenty.

Why it is a great choice: Fresh lemony tea leaves from one easy clump. Did you know? Its fragrance comes from citral, the same compound in lemon peel.

Growing details and history

Origin: Southern India, Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Thailand, Indonesia, Brazil and the Caribbean.
History: Lemongrass oil has been exported from India for centuries.
On cold nights: Growth slows in cold nights; protect from frost.
Plant type: Herb / spice
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 2 ft between plants
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Start from your kitchen: Root market lemongrass stalks in water for 2 weeks, then pot them.
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Harvest little and often; resow every 3–4 weeks for a steady supply.
Potting mix: Free-draining herb mix: 40% garden soil, 20% compost, 20% cocopeat, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: a small handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Raffi Kojian · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Leucas Beginner pick

Leucas aspera

Small white flowers on a hardy native herb.

Why it is a great choice: An easy herb that supports pollinators. Did you know? Its flowers are rich in nectar for bees.

Growing details and history

Origin: South and Southeast Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Southeast Asia and Africa.
History: Used in traditional remedies.
On cold nights: Rests in cold weather.
Plant type: Herb / spice
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 6 inches between plants
Mature size: Usually under 1 ft (30 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Feb–Sep (summer & monsoon)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Use a pot with drainage holes and a light, compost-rich mix.
Potting mix: Free-draining herb mix: 40% garden soil, 20% compost, 20% cocopeat, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: a small handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Aphids

Photo: Photo: Rohan Pinto · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Mint Beginner pick

Mentha spicata

Fast-spreading mint for drinks and cooking; keep it in its own pot.

Why it is a great choice: Fresh, aromatic leaves that regrow quickly after each harvest. Did you know? Its cooling sensation comes from menthol.

Growing details and history

Origin: Southern Europe and the Mediterranean.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide.
History: Used by ancient Greeks and Romans to flavour food.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; dies back in frost.
Plant type: Herb / spice
Sunlight: 2–4 hours of gentle sun
Watering: Daily in summer – keep soil moist
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Start from your kitchen: Root fresh mint stems from the market in a glass of water, then pot them.
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Harvest little and often; resow every 3–4 weeks for a steady supply.
Potting mix: Free-draining herb mix: 40% garden soil, 20% compost, 20% cocopeat, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: a small handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Spider mites, Fungal leaf spots / blight

Photo: Photo: Simon Eugster · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Parsley Beginner pick

Petroselinum crispum

Cool-season herb; struggles in summer heat.

Why it is a great choice: A fresh, versatile herb for the cool season. Did you know? It is a host plant for swallowtail butterfly caterpillars.

Growing details and history

Origin: The central Mediterranean region.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide.
History: Ancient Greeks used it to crown winners of athletic games.
On cold nights: Loves cool nights; struggles in heat.
Plant type: Herb / spice
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Oct–Feb (cool season)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Harvest little and often; resow every 3–4 weeks for a steady supply.
Potting mix: Free-draining herb mix: 40% garden soil, 20% compost, 20% cocopeat, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: a small handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Aphids

Photo: Photo: Forest & Kim Starr · CC BY 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Porcupine Flower (Barleria) Beginner pick

Barleria prionitis

Hardy native flowering hedge.

Why it is a great choice: A tough, flowering hedge for dry areas. Did you know? Its spines protect it from grazing animals.

Growing details and history

Origin: South Asia and Africa.
Where it grows today: Grown in India and Africa.
History: Used in traditional remedies.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights.
Plant type: Herb / spice
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 2 ft between plants
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Thorny / spiny – keep away from play areas
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Free-draining herb mix: 40% garden soil, 20% compost, 20% cocopeat, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: a small handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs

Photo: Photo: J.M.Garg · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Sweet Basil Beginner pick

Ocimum basilicum

For pasta and salads; pinch flowers to keep leaves coming.

Why it is a great choice: Fragrant leaves for pasta, salads and drinks. Did you know? Pinching off flowers makes it grow more leaves.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical Asia and Africa.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide.
History: Its name comes from the Greek "basileus", meaning king.
On cold nights: Sensitive to cold; nights below 10°C damage leaves.
Plant type: Herb / spice
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Harvest little and often; resow every 3–4 weeks for a steady supply.
Potting mix: Free-draining herb mix: 40% garden soil, 20% compost, 20% cocopeat, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: a small handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Aphids, Powdery mildew

Photo: Photo: PumpkinSky · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Sweet Marjoram Beginner pick

Origanum majorana

Fragrant leaves for cooking and flower arrangements.

Why it is a great choice: Sweet, aromatic leaves for cooking and decoration. Did you know? It is a close relative of oregano.

Growing details and history

Origin: Cyprus and Turkey.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a herb.
History: Ancient Greeks considered it a symbol of happiness.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; protect from frost.
Plant type: Herb / spice
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Harvest little and often; resow every 3–4 weeks for a steady supply.
Potting mix: Free-draining herb mix: 40% garden soil, 20% compost, 20% cocopeat, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: a small handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Aphids

Photo: Photo: H. Zell · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Turmeric Beginner pick

Curcuma longa

Leaves and rhizomes for cooking; plant in early summer.

Why it is a great choice: Beautiful leaves and fresh rhizomes for the kitchen. Did you know? Its bright colour comes from curcumin.

Growing details and history

Origin: South Asia.
Where it grows today: India produces about three-quarters of the world's turmeric.
History: Used in India for nearly 4,000 years.
On cold nights: Rests in cold weather.
Plant type: Herb / spice
Sunlight: 2–4 hours of gentle sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres. · in the ground, about 1 ft between plants
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: Grow Feb–Sep (summer & monsoon)
Start from your kitchen: Plant a fresh turmeric rhizome with buds, 5 cm deep, in May–June.
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Use a pot with drainage holes and a light, compost-rich mix.
Potting mix: Loose root-crop mix: 30% garden soil, 30% cocopeat, 20% coarse sand, 20% compost. Natural add-on: a handful of neem cake; sieve out stones so roots grow straight.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Root or stem rot, Caterpillars

Photo: Photo: SKsiddhartthan · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Water Hyssop

Bacopa monnieri

Creeping water-loving herb; grow it in a tray kept wet.

Why it is a great choice: An easy herb for wet trays and water gardens. Did you know? It grows naturally in marshes and can live underwater.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical wetlands worldwide.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Southeast Asia and Florida.
History: Used in Ayurveda for memory for over 3,000 years.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth; protect from frost.
Plant type: Herb / spice
Sunlight: Bright light, no harsh sun
Watering: Daily in summer – keep soil moist
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Use a pot with drainage holes and a light, compost-rich mix.
Potting mix: Leafy-greens mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of neem cake per pot (keeps soil pests away).
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids

Photo: Photo: Forest & Kim Starr · CC BY 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Flowering plants

Adenium (Desert Rose) · African Marigold · African Violet · Anthurium · Arabian Jasmine · Blue Star Water Lily · Bottlebrush · Bridal Bouquet Frangipani · Bromeliad (Guzmania) · Calendula (Pot Marigold) · Celosia (Plumed Cockscomb) · China Rose · Chinese Hibiscus · Christmas Cactus · Chrysanthemum · Crape Jasmine (Pinwheel Flower) · Crossandra (Firecracker Flower) · Crown of Thorns · Damask Rose · Dianthus (China Pink) · Firebush (Hamelia) · Four O'Clock Flower · Frangipani · Garden Balsam · Gardenia · Geranium (Pelargonium) · Globe Amaranth · Impatiens (Busy Lizzie) · Ixora (Jungle Geranium) · Kalanchoe (Flaming Katy) · Lantana (Sterile Hybrid) · Lavender · Madagascar Periwinkle · Mexican Sunflower (Tithonia) · Moss Rose (Portulaca) · Moth Orchid (Phalaenopsis) · Mussaenda · Night-blooming Jasmine (Cestrum) · Night-flowering Jasmine (Coral Jasmine) · Oleander · Orange Jasmine · Pansy · Peace Lily · Peacock Flower (Caesalpinia) · Pentas (Star Cluster) · Petunia · Rain Lily · Sacred Lotus · Spider Lily (Hymenocallis) · Star Jasmine (Jasminum multiflorum) · Sunflower · Tanner's Cassia · Tuberose · Wax Begonia · Wax Plant (Hoya) · Wishbone Flower (Torenia) · Yellow Bells (Tecoma) · Yellow Oleander · Zinnia

Adenium (Desert Rose) Beginner pick

Adenium obesum

Swollen-trunk flowering plant for hot terraces or the sunniest window; sap is poisonous.

Why it is a great choice: A sculptural flowering plant for hot, sunny spots. (Sap is poisonous.) Did you know? Its swollen trunk stores water.

Growing details and history

Origin: Arabia and Eastern Africa.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide; very popular in Thailand and India.
History: Thai growers have developed thousands of hybrids.
On cold nights: Keep dry and above 10°C in winter.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Poisonous if eaten – keep away from children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Gritty succulent mix: 30% garden soil, 40% coarse sand, 20% brick pieces or perlite, 10% compost. Natural add-on: nothing else – rich soil rots succulents.
Homemade compost: Yes, a little: at most 10% sieved, mature compost in a gritty mix. Too much keeps the soil wet and rots succulents.
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

African Marigold Beginner pick

Tagetes erecta

Bright orange and yellow flowers for decoration; sow in autumn for winter blooms.

Why it is a great choice: Masses of colour from seed, with natural pest-repelling roots. Did you know? Its roots release compounds that deter soil nematodes.

Growing details and history

Origin: Mexico and Central America.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide; India and Mexico are major producers.
History: Used by the Aztecs; now essential in festivals across India and Mexico.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; frost kills it.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres. · in the ground, about 1.5 ft between plants
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Oct–Feb (cool season)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Spider mites, Caterpillars

Photo: Photo: Joydeep · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

African Violet

Saintpaulia ionantha

Table-top flowers for air-conditioned rooms.

Why it is a great choice: Compact, colourful flowers for indoor tables. Did you know? A single leaf can grow into a new plant in water.

Growing details and history

Origin: The mountains of Tanzania and Kenya.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: Discovered by Baron Walter von Saint Paul in 1892.
On cold nights: Prefers nights above 15°C.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: Bright light, no harsh sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Humid regions; Highlands
Where it grows: Indoors
Pot or space needed: undefined
Mature size: Usually under 1 ft (30 cm)
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Light indoor mix: 40% cocopeat, 30% compost, 20% garden soil, 10% perlite or brick bits. Natural add-on: a small handful of vermicompost.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: J.Dncsn · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Anthurium

Anthurium andraeanum

Glossy red flowers indoors for months.

Why it is a great choice: Glossy red flowers indoors for months. Did you know? The red "flower" is a waxy spathe; the true flowers are on the spike.

Growing details and history

Origin: Colombia and Ecuador.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant and cut flower.
History: Introduced to Europe in the 1800s.
On cold nights: Keep above 15°C.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: Bright light, no harsh sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Light indoor mix: 40% cocopeat, 30% compost, 20% garden soil, 10% perlite or brick bits. Natural add-on: a small handful of vermicompost.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Fanghong · CC BY 2.5 · Wikimedia Commons

Arabian Jasmine Beginner pick

Jasminum sambac

Intensely fragrant flowers for decoration and hair; heavy bloom in spring and summer.

Why it is a great choice: One of the most fragrant flowers you can grow in a pot. Did you know? It is the flower used to scent jasmine tea.

Growing details and history

Origin: The Indian subcontinent.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, the Philippines (its national flower), Indonesia and the Middle East.
History: Its flowers have been used for perfume and tea for centuries.
On cold nights: Rests in cool nights; flowers again with warmth.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 4 ft between plants
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Habib M'henni · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Blue Star Water Lily

Nymphaea nouchali

Native water lily for a tub or small pond.

Why it is a great choice: Beautiful blue-violet flowers for a small water garden. Did you know? Its flowers open in the morning and close in the afternoon.

Growing details and history

Origin: South and Southeast Asia and Africa.
Where it grows today: Grown across tropical Asia and Africa; national flower of Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
History: Valued for centuries in Asian water gardens.
On cold nights: Rests in cold weather.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Grows in a water tub – keep it topped up
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 2 ft between plants
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Heavy pond soil: 90% clay-rich garden soil, 10% well-rotted cow dung. Natural add-on: no cocopeat or compost on top – they float and dirty the water.
Homemade compost: Do not put loose compost in the water. Push a small ball of clay mixed with well-rotted compost or cow dung into the soil near the roots once a month in summer.
Watch for: Aphids, Snails and slugs

Photo: Photo: Nguyễn Tấn Phát · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Bottlebrush Beginner pick

Callistemon citrinus

Red brushes full of nectar; sunbirds visit daily.

Why it is a great choice: Red brushes full of nectar bring birds to your garden all year. Did you know? The "bottle brush" is made of hundreds of long red stamens.

Growing details and history

Origin: Eastern Australia.
Where it grows today: Planted widely in Australia, India, Africa, the Mediterranean and California.
History: Collected by botanists on early Australian expeditions in the late 1700s.
On cold nights: Handles cool nights and light frost well.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 10 ft between plants
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: DirkHoffmann · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Bridal Bouquet Frangipani Beginner pick

Plumeria pudica

White spoon-leaf plumeria that flowers most of the year.

Why it is a great choice: Pure white bridal flowers nearly year-round on a compact, easy plant. Did you know? Unlike other frangipanis, it keeps its spoon-shaped leaves and flowers almost all year.

Growing details and history

Origin: Colombia, Venezuela and Panama.
Where it grows today: Increasingly popular in tropical gardens worldwide.
History: A more recent garden favourite, prized for flowering most of the year.
On cold nights: Prefers nights above 10°C.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 6 ft between plants
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Billjones94 · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Bromeliad (Guzmania) Beginner pick

Guzmania lingulata

Bright red bract that lasts 3–4 months.

Why it is a great choice: A bright red bract that lasts 3–4 months. Did you know? It is related to the pineapple.

Growing details and history

Origin: Central and South America.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: A member of the pineapple family.
On cold nights: Keep above 15°C.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: Bright light, no harsh sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Airy orchid mix (no soil): 60% coconut husk chips or bark, 20% charcoal pieces, 20% brick pieces. Natural add-on: no soil at all – orchid roots need air.
Homemade compost: Do not add loose compost to orchid mix – it holds too much water. Feed with a diluted orchid fertiliser instead.
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Amada44 · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Calendula (Pot Marigold) Beginner pick

Calendula officinalis

Winter annual; petals are edible.

Why it is a great choice: Bright, edible flowers in the cool season. Did you know? Its petals are edible.

Growing details and history

Origin: Southern Europe.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a bedding plant.
History: Used in medieval Europe to colour butter and cheese.
On cold nights: Loves cool nights; survives light frost.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres. · in the ground, about 1 ft between plants
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Oct–Feb (cool season)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Aphids, Powdery mildew

Photo: Photo: Betty Cai · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Celosia (Plumed Cockscomb) Beginner pick

Celosia argentea

Feathery plume flowers; easy from seed.

Why it is a great choice: Unusual, long-lasting flowers that dry well. Did you know? Its flowers look like flames or brain coral.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical Africa.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a bedding plant.
History: Its leaves are eaten as a vegetable in parts of Africa.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth; frost kills it.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres. · in the ground, about 1 ft between plants
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Feb–Sep (summer & monsoon)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Spider mites, Aphids

Photo: Photo: Quadell · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

China Rose

Rosa chinensis

Hardy, fragrant roses for everyday flowers; prune after each flush.

Why it is a great choice: Hardy roses that flower repeatedly through the year. Did you know? It is one of the ancestors of almost every modern rose.

Growing details and history

Origin: Southwest China.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide; parent of many modern roses.
History: Brought to Europe in the 1700s, it gave modern roses their repeat-flowering habit.
On cold nights: Loves cool nights; flowers best in the cool season.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 3 ft between plants
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Thorny / spiny – keep away from play areas
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Sakurai Midori · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Chinese Hibiscus Beginner pick

Hibiscus rosa-sinensis

Large blooms almost every day; one of the most popular flowering shrubs in warm countries.

Why it is a great choice: Few shrubs give this much colour for so little effort – a daily show of dinner-plate blooms that also attract butterflies and sunbirds. Did you know? Each flower lasts only one day, yet a healthy shrub opens new ones daily for most of the year.

Growing details and history

Origin: East Asia, most likely southern China.
Where it grows today: Grown throughout the tropics – India, Southeast Asia, the Pacific islands, the Caribbean and Florida.
History: Carried along ancient trade routes, it became the state flower of Hawaii and the national flower of Malaysia.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights down to about 10°C; below that, flowering pauses and leaves may yellow.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 2 ft between plants
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Andy / Andrew Fogg · CC BY 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Christmas Cactus Beginner pick

Schlumbergera

Winter flowers for hill homes and cool rooms.

Why it is a great choice: Colourful winter flowers for cool rooms. Did you know? Cool nights and short days trigger its flowers.

Growing details and history

Origin: The coastal mountains of southeastern Brazil.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: Named for its winter flowering in the Northern Hemisphere.
On cold nights: Needs cool nights (around 12–15°C) to flower.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: Bright light, no harsh sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Gritty succulent mix: 30% garden soil, 40% coarse sand, 20% brick pieces or perlite, 10% compost. Natural add-on: nothing else – rich soil rots succulents.
Homemade compost: Yes, a little: at most 10% sieved, mature compost in a gritty mix. Too much keeps the soil wet and rots succulents.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Root or stem rot

Photo: Photo: Empereur Day · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Chrysanthemum

Chrysanthemum indicum

Classic autumn and winter flower for decoration.

Why it is a great choice: Abundant autumn and winter colour. Did you know? Its flowering is triggered by longer nights.

Growing details and history

Origin: China and East Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide; Japan, China and the Netherlands are leading producers.
History: Cultivated in China since the 15th century BC; symbol of Japan's imperial family.
On cold nights: Loves cool nights – they trigger flowering.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 1.5 ft between plants
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Oct–Feb (cool season)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Prenn · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Crape Jasmine (Pinwheel Flower) Beginner pick

Tabernaemontana divaricata

Pure white pinwheel flowers almost every day on a neat evergreen shrub.

Why it is a great choice: A reliable, tidy shrub that gives fresh white flowers daily with little care. Did you know? Each flower is twisted like a pinwheel, all spinning the same way.

Growing details and history

Origin: South and Southeast Asia and southern China.
Where it grows today: Common in gardens across India, Southeast Asia, Africa and the Caribbean.
History: A long-standing traditional garden shrub across Asia.
On cold nights: Prefers nights above 10°C.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 2 ft between plants
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: SKsiddhartthan · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Crossandra (Firecracker Flower)

Crossandra infundibuliformis

Bright orange flowers on a compact shrub, blooming through most of the year.

Why it is a great choice: Glowing orange colour in pots, even in partial shade. Did you know? Its ripe seed pods burst when wet, flinging seeds away from the parent plant.

Growing details and history

Origin: Southern India and Sri Lanka.
Where it grows today: Grown across South and Southeast Asia, and as a houseplant in Europe and North America.
History: A traditional flower for hair decoration in South India for centuries.
On cold nights: Dislikes nights below 12°C.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 2–4 hours of gentle sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres. · in the ground, about 1.5 ft between plants
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Adityamadhav83 · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Crown of Thorns Beginner pick

Euphorbia milii

Flowers all year with almost no water; spiny with irritant sap.

Why it is a great choice: Flowers almost year-round with very little water – ideal for beginners and hot balconies. Did you know? Thai growers consider it a lucky plant – the more flowers, the more luck.

Growing details and history

Origin: Madagascar.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide in warm gardens and as a sunny-window houseplant.
History: Legend links its spiny stems to the crown of thorns; it reached Europe in the 1820s.
On cold nights: Survives nights near 5°C if kept dry.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres. · in the ground, about 1 ft between plants
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Thorny / spiny – keep away from play areas
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Gritty succulent mix: 30% garden soil, 40% coarse sand, 20% brick pieces or perlite, 10% compost. Natural add-on: nothing else – rich soil rots succulents.
Homemade compost: Yes, a little: at most 10% sieved, mature compost in a gritty mix. Too much keeps the soil wet and rots succulents.
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Ezra Katz · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Damask Rose

Rosa × damascena

The most fragrant rose for perfume and home preserves.

Why it is a great choice: Intense fragrance for perfume and preserves. Did you know? About 3,000 kg of petals make 1 kg of rose oil.

Growing details and history

Origin: The Middle East.
Where it grows today: Grown in Bulgaria, Turkey, Iran and India.
History: Brought to Europe by the Crusaders; rose oil from it is among the most valuable perfume ingredients.
On cold nights: Loves cool nights; flowers best then.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 3 ft between plants
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Thorny / spiny – keep away from play areas
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: H. Zell · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Dianthus (China Pink) Beginner pick

Dianthus chinensis

Winter annual with frilly flowers.

Why it is a great choice: Frilly, colourful flowers in winter. Did you know? Its edges look like they were cut with pinking shears.

Growing details and history

Origin: China, Korea and Mongolia.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a bedding plant.
History: Grown in Chinese gardens for centuries.
On cold nights: Loves cool nights; survives frost.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Oct–Feb (cool season)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Aphids

Photo: Photo: Jjw · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Firebush (Hamelia) Beginner pick

Hamelia patens

Orange-red tubes that bring sunbirds and butterflies daily.

Why it is a great choice: Brings birds and butterflies to your garden every single day. Did you know? Hummingbirds in the Americas and sunbirds in Asia both love its tubular flowers.

Growing details and history

Origin: Florida, the Caribbean and Central and South America.
Where it grows today: A popular wildlife shrub in warm countries worldwide.
History: Long used in Central America as a garden shrub and folk remedy.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; frost cuts it back.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 2 ft between plants
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Alejandro Bayer Tamayo · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Four O'Clock Flower Beginner pick

Mirabilis jalapa

Opens at 4 pm in many colours; self-seeds every year.

Why it is a great choice: Colourful flowers that open every late afternoon. Did you know? One plant can bear flowers of different colours.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical South America.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a garden plant.
History: Brought to Europe from Peru in the 1500s.
On cold nights: Dies back in frost; regrows from its tuber.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres. · in the ground, about 1 ft between plants
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: Grow Feb–Sep (summer & monsoon)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Aphids

Photo: Photo: Khalid Mahmood · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

Frangipani Beginner pick

Plumeria rubra

Fragrant waxy flowers on a sculptural shrub; grows well in a large pot.

Why it is a great choice: Intensely fragrant flowers that perfume a whole terrace, on a plant that thrives on neglect. Did you know? The flowers produce no nectar – they trick moths with scent alone.

Growing details and history

Origin: Mexico, Central America and northern South America.
Where it grows today: Grown across the tropics, from Hawaii and Southeast Asia to India and Africa.
History: Named after 17th-century French botanist Charles Plumier; frangipani flowers are used in Hawaiian leis.
On cold nights: Drops leaves in winter and rests; keep dry when nights fall below 10°C.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 12 ft between plants
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Gul Kiyani · CC BY 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Garden Balsam Beginner pick

Impatiens balsamina

Traditional rainy-season flower; easy from seed.

Why it is a great choice: Easy, colourful flowers that children love. Did you know? Its seed pods explode when touched.

Growing details and history

Origin: South and Southeast Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a bedding plant.
History: Grown in Asian gardens for centuries.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth; frost kills it.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres. · in the ground, about 1 ft between plants
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Feb–Sep (summer & monsoon)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Spider mites, Powdery mildew

Photo: Photo: Joydeep · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Gardenia

Gardenia jasminoides

Rich-scented white flowers; likes acidic soil.

Why it is a great choice: Rich, sweet fragrance from glossy shrubs. Did you know? Its fragrance is used in perfumes and tea.

Growing details and history

Origin: Southern China and Japan.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide in gardens and as a houseplant.
History: Grown in Chinese gardens for over 1,000 years.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; protect from frost.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 2–4 hours of gentle sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions; Highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 2 ft between plants
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Adriel anv00 · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Geranium (Pelargonium)

Pelargonium × hortorum

Hill-station favourite; dislikes monsoon rain.

Why it is a great choice: Long-lasting colour for cool, dry climates. Did you know? Its leaves often have a dark ring that looks like a horseshoe.

Growing details and history

Origin: South Africa.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a bedding plant.
History: Brought to Europe in the 1600s.
On cold nights: Prefers cool, dry nights; dislikes heavy rain.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres.
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Globe Amaranth Beginner pick

Gomphrena globosa

Papery button flowers that last for weeks, fresh or dried.

Why it is a great choice: Long-lasting flowers for fresh and dried arrangements. Did you know? Its flowers keep their colour for months after drying.

Growing details and history

Origin: Central America.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as an annual.
History: Used in Latin American and Asian gardens for centuries.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth; frost kills it.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres. · in the ground, about 1 ft between plants
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Feb–Sep (summer & monsoon)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Aphids

Photo: Photo: David J. Stang · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Impatiens (Busy Lizzie) Beginner pick

Impatiens walleriana

Colour for shady balconies; dislikes dry heat.

Why it is a great choice: Bright colour for shady balconies. Did you know? Its ripe seed pods burst when touched.

Growing details and history

Origin: Eastern Africa.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a bedding and container plant.
History: Became one of the world's best-selling bedding plants in the 20th century.
On cold nights: Prefers nights above 10°C.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: Shade or indirect light
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions; Highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Spider mites, Aphids

Photo: Photo: Thegreenj · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Ixora (Jungle Geranium) Beginner pick

Ixora coccinea

Red flower clusters most of the year on a tidy shrub.

Why it is a great choice: Bright flower clusters almost all year. Did you know? Each cluster can hold over 60 small flowers.

Growing details and history

Origin: Southern India and Sri Lanka.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide in tropical gardens.
History: Grown in Asian gardens for centuries.
On cold nights: Prefers nights above 15°C.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 2 ft between plants
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Kokkarani · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Kalanchoe (Flaming Katy) Beginner pick

Kalanchoe blossfeldiana

Weeks of red, orange or yellow flowers on a sunny sill.

Why it is a great choice: Weeks of colour on a sunny windowsill. Did you know? It flowers when days are short.

Growing details and history

Origin: Madagascar.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: Popular as a gift plant.
On cold nights: Prefers nights above 10°C.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Gritty succulent mix: 30% garden soil, 40% coarse sand, 20% brick pieces or perlite, 10% compost. Natural add-on: nothing else – rich soil rots succulents.
Homemade compost: Yes, a little: at most 10% sieved, mature compost in a gritty mix. Too much keeps the soil wet and rots succulents.
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Sabalo22 · CC0 · Wikimedia Commons

Lantana (Sterile Hybrid) Beginner pick

Lantana camara

Butterfly magnet; choose a sterile garden hybrid, never the invasive wild form.

Why it is a great choice: Non-stop butterfly activity on a tough, drought-tolerant shrub. Did you know? Each flower cluster changes colour as it ages, so one head can show yellow, orange and red at once.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical Central and South America.
Where it grows today: Grown in gardens worldwide; the wild form is invasive in many countries.
History: Taken to Europe in the 1600s and later spread across the tropics.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; light frost cuts it back.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 2 ft between plants
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Alvesgaspar · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Lavender

Lavandula angustifolia

Fragrant purple spikes for cool, dry climates; struggles in hot, humid summers.

Why it is a great choice: A fragrant, bee-friendly herb for cool climates and highland gardens. Did you know? Bees can detect its scent from a long distance – a single plant attracts dozens.

Growing details and history

Origin: The Mediterranean mountains.
Where it grows today: Grown commercially in France, Bulgaria, the United Kingdom, Australia and the United States.
History: Romans used it to scent baths; its name comes from the Latin "lavare", to wash.
On cold nights: Loves cool nights and survives frost; heat and humidity are its main enemies.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres. · in the ground, about 1 ft between plants
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Advanced – for experienced growers
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: Grow Oct–Feb (cool season)
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Norbert Nagel · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Madagascar Periwinkle Beginner pick

Catharanthus roseus

Blooms every single day, even in peak summer; not for eating.

Why it is a great choice: Flowers every single day, even in peak summer heat, from one small pot. (Not for eating.) Did you know? It is one of the most medically important plants of the 20th century.

Growing details and history

Origin: Madagascar.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide; naturalised across the tropics.
History: Research on this plant in the 1950s led to vincristine and vinblastine, important cancer medicines.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth; cold nights below 10°C stop flowering.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres. · in the ground, about 1 ft between plants
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: O Tupinólogo · CC BY 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Mexican Sunflower (Tithonia) Beginner pick

Tithonia diversifolia

Huge butterfly plant for a sunny corner.

Why it is a great choice: A huge butterfly feeding station that grows fast and blooms freely. Did you know? Its leaves are so rich in nutrients that farmers use them as natural fertiliser.

Growing details and history

Origin: Mexico and Central America.
Where it grows today: Grown and naturalised across the tropics.
History: Used in Central America as green manure and fodder.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; frost kills top growth.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 2 ft between plants
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Aphids

Photo: Photo: Joan Simon · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Moss Rose (Portulaca) Beginner pick

Portulaca grandiflora

Opens at nine every morning; perfect for hot terraces and hanging pots.

Why it is a great choice: Instant colour for the hottest, sunniest spots – it thrives where other flowers wilt. Did you know? The flowers open in bright sun and close in shade or late afternoon.

Growing details and history

Origin: Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a summer annual and hanging-basket plant.
History: Known as "eleven o'clock" in many countries for when its flowers open.
On cold nights: A heat-lover; cold nights below 10°C end its season.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 6 inches between plants
Mature size: Usually under 1 ft (30 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Gritty succulent mix: 30% garden soil, 40% coarse sand, 20% brick pieces or perlite, 10% compost. Natural add-on: nothing else – rich soil rots succulents.
Homemade compost: Yes, a little: at most 10% sieved, mature compost in a gritty mix. Too much keeps the soil wet and rots succulents.
Watch for: Aphids

Photo: Photo: Anshik Kumar Tiwari · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Moth Orchid (Phalaenopsis)

Phalaenopsis

Long-lasting flower sprays; water only when the bark mix dries.

Why it is a great choice: Elegant flowers that last for months with little care. Did you know? A single flower spike can bloom for three months.

Growing details and history

Origin: Southeast Asia, the Philippines and northern Australia.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide; Taiwan and the Netherlands are major producers.
History: Became the world's best-selling potted orchid in the 20th century.
On cold nights: A slight drop in night temperature triggers new flower spikes.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: Bright light, no harsh sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions; Highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹₹ Premium (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Airy orchid mix (no soil): 60% coconut husk chips or bark, 20% charcoal pieces, 20% brick pieces. Natural add-on: no soil at all – orchid roots need air.
Homemade compost: Do not add loose compost to orchid mix – it holds too much water. Feed with a diluted orchid fertiliser instead.
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Uoaei1 · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Mussaenda Beginner pick

Mussaenda philippica

Big pink or white bracts for months in humid areas.

Why it is a great choice: Months of pink or white colour in humid climates. Did you know? Its colour comes from large leaf-like sepals, not petals.

Growing details and history

Origin: The Philippines.
Where it grows today: Grown in tropical gardens worldwide.
History: A popular ornamental shrub in Southeast Asia.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth; protect from cold.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 4 ft between plants
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Tanvir Rahat · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Night-blooming Jasmine (Cestrum) Beginner pick

Cestrum nocturnum

Fills the house with scent at night; berries are poisonous.

Why it is a great choice: Fills the house with fragrance at night. Did you know? Its flowers release scent only at night.

Growing details and history

Origin: The West Indies.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide in warm regions.
History: Famous for its night fragrance.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; protect from frost.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 4 ft between plants
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Poisonous if eaten – keep away from children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Dinesh Valke · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Night-flowering Jasmine (Coral Jasmine) Beginner pick

Nyctanthes arbor-tristis

Sacred night-fragrant flowers that fall at dawn; Sept–Dec bloom.

Why it is a great choice: Evening fragrance and a carpet of flowers every morning in autumn and early winter. Did you know? Flowers open at dusk and fall at dawn – mornings bring a fragrant carpet under the shrub.

Growing details and history

Origin: South and Southeast Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown across India, Nepal, Thailand and Southeast Asia.
History: Its flowers have been prized for centuries; the orange flower tubes were used as a natural dye.
On cold nights: Comfortable in cool nights; it flowers best as nights cool in autumn.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 4 ft between plants
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Avik De · CC BY 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Oleander Beginner pick

Nerium oleander

Tough flowering shrub for hot, dry spots; all parts are poisonous – keep away from children and pets.

Why it is a great choice: Year-round flowers in the hottest, driest corners where most shrubs fail – for gardens without small children or pets. Did you know? It is so drought- and pollution-tolerant that it is a standard highway median plant in many countries.

Growing details and history

Origin: The Mediterranean basin and southwest Asia.
Where it grows today: Planted along highways and in gardens from Spain and California to India and Australia.
History: Ancient Greeks and Romans grew it in courtyards; its toxicity has been recorded since classical times.
On cold nights: Very cold-tolerant for a flowering shrub – it shrugs off nights near 0°C.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 4 ft between plants
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Poisonous if eaten – keep away from children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Alvesgaspar · CC BY 2.5 · Wikimedia Commons

Orange Jasmine Beginner pick

Murraya paniculata

Orange-blossom scent and a neat clipped hedge.

Why it is a great choice: A fragrant, neat hedge. Did you know? Its flowers smell like orange blossom.

Growing details and history

Origin: South and Southeast Asia and Australia.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a hedge in warm climates.
History: Grown in Chinese gardens for centuries.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; protect from frost.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 2 ft between plants
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Michael Wolf · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Pansy Beginner pick

Viola × wittrockiana

Cool-season annual; best in North India and hills.

Why it is a great choice: Cheerful "faces" of colour in winter. Did you know? Its name comes from the French "pensée", meaning thought.

Growing details and history

Origin: Europe.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a cool-season bedding plant.
History: Developed in England in the early 1800s.
On cold nights: Loves cool nights; survives light frost.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Oct–Feb (cool season)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Aphids, Snails and slugs

Photo: Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Peace Lily Beginner pick

Spathiphyllum wallisii

White flowers in low light; droops to tell you it needs water.

Why it is a great choice: White flowers in low light, and it tells you when it needs water. Did you know? It droops dramatically when thirsty, then recovers within hours of watering.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical Central and South America.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: A classic indoor flowering plant.
On cold nights: Keep above 12°C.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: Shade or indirect light
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Light indoor mix: 40% cocopeat, 30% compost, 20% garden soil, 10% perlite or brick bits. Natural add-on: a small handful of vermicompost.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: W.carter · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Peacock Flower (Caesalpinia) Beginner pick

Caesalpinia pulcherrima

Fiery orange-red flowers on a fast-growing shrub; seeds are not edible.

Why it is a great choice: A spectacular, heat-loving shrub that flowers from spring through autumn. Did you know? Its long red stamens can reach three times the length of the petals.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical America, probably the Caribbean.
Where it grows today: Grown across the tropics; national flower of Barbados.
History: Spread worldwide by early botanists and gardeners for its spectacular flowers.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth; drops leaves in cold.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 4 ft between plants
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Prenn · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Pentas (Star Cluster) Beginner pick

Pentas lanceolata

Non-stop butterfly flowers in pots.

Why it is a great choice: Non-stop butterfly flowers in pots. Did you know? Its star-shaped flowers are a butterfly feeding station.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical Africa and Arabia.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a bedding plant.
History: A modern favourite for butterfly gardens.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth; frost kills it.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres. · in the ground, about 1 ft between plants
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Cody Hough · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Petunia Beginner pick

Petunia × atkinsiana

Winter annual for hanging baskets, Nov–Feb.

Why it is a great choice: Masses of colour for hanging baskets in the cool season. Did you know? It is related to the tomato.

Growing details and history

Origin: South America.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a seasonal bedding plant.
History: Hybridised in Europe in the 1830s.
On cold nights: Loves cool nights; struggles in heat.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Oct–Feb (cool season)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Aphids, Caterpillars

Photo: Photo: Rocksmoker 007 · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Rain Lily Beginner pick

Zephyranthes carinata

Carpets of pink flowers after every monsoon shower.

Why it is a great choice: Instant flowers after every shower. Did you know? It bursts into bloom just days after heavy rain.

Growing details and history

Origin: Mexico and Guatemala.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide in warm regions.
History: Named for its habit of flowering after rain.
On cold nights: Rests in cold weather.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 6 inches between plants
Mature size: Usually under 1 ft (30 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: Grow Feb–Sep (summer & monsoon)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Snails and slugs

Photo: Photo: CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Sacred Lotus

Nelumbo nucifera

Iconic sacred flower; grows in a wide water tub with six hours of sun.

Why it is a great choice: A stunning water plant with deep cultural meaning. Did you know? Its leaves repel water so well that it inspired self-cleaning materials – the "lotus effect".

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical Asia and northern Australia.
Where it grows today: Grown in India (its national flower), China, Vietnam and Japan.
History: Sacred in Hinduism and Buddhism for thousands of years.
On cold nights: Goes dormant in cold weather; regrows in spring.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Grows in a water tub – keep it topped up
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 2 ft between plants
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Feb–Sep (summer & monsoon)
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Heavy pond soil: 90% clay-rich garden soil, 10% well-rotted cow dung. Natural add-on: no cocopeat or compost on top – they float and dirty the water.
Homemade compost: Do not put loose compost in the water. Push a small ball of clay mixed with well-rotted compost or cow dung into the soil near the roots once a month in summer.
Watch for: Aphids, Snails and slugs

Photo: Photo: T.Voekler · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Spider Lily (Hymenocallis) Beginner pick

Hymenocallis littoralis

Fragrant white spidery blooms in monsoon; bulbs are poisonous.

Why it is a great choice: Exotic, fragrant white flowers with very little effort. Did you know? Each flower has a delicate web-like membrane joining its stamens.

Growing details and history

Origin: The Caribbean and tropical Americas.
Where it grows today: Grown in warm gardens and along coasts worldwide.
History: Grown in tropical gardens since the 1700s for its unusual flowers.
On cold nights: Bulbs rest in winter; keep them dry in cold weather.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 2–4 hours of gentle sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres. · in the ground, about 1 ft between plants
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Snails and slugs, Caterpillars

Photo: Photo: Billjones94 · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Star Jasmine (Jasminum multiflorum) Beginner pick

Jasminum multiflorum

Abundant winter jasmine; little scent but long-lasting flowers.

Why it is a great choice: Abundant white flowers in winter. Did you know? It flowers in winter, when other jasmines rest.

Growing details and history

Origin: India.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Southeast Asia and Florida.
History: A traditional ornamental shrub in India.
On cold nights: Loves cool nights; flowers best then.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 2 ft between plants
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Atamari · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Sunflower Beginner pick

Helianthus annuus

Bee-attracting border crop; seeds in about 90 days.

Why it is a great choice: Giant, cheerful flowers that feed bees and birds. Did you know? Young flower heads follow the sun.

Growing details and history

Origin: North America.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide; Russia and Ukraine are leading producers.
History: Cultivated by Native Americans over 4,000 years ago.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 2 ft between plants
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Feb–Sep (summer & monsoon)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Aphids

Photo: Photo: Fir0002 · GFDL 1.2 · Wikimedia Commons

Tanner's Cassia Beginner pick

Senna auriculata

Bright yellow flowering shrub that thrives in dry, poor soils.

Why it is a great choice: Bright yellow flowers on a tough, drought-tolerant shrub. Did you know? Its flowers are used to make a traditional herbal tea.

Growing details and history

Origin: India and Sri Lanka.
Where it grows today: Grown in India and Sri Lanka.
History: Its bark was used to tan leather – hence its name.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights and drought.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 2 ft between plants
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Adityamadhav83 · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Tuberose Beginner pick

Polianthes tuberosa

Night-fragrant flower spikes for decoration and perfume.

Why it is a great choice: One of the most fragrant flowers for cutting. Did you know? Its fragrance is strongest at night.

Growing details and history

Origin: Mexico.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide; India, Mexico and France are major producers.
History: Its fragrance was used in Aztec rituals.
On cold nights: Rests in cold weather.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 1 ft between plants
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Feb–Sep (summer & monsoon)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Thrips, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: SKsiddhartthan · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Wax Begonia Beginner pick

Begonia semperflorens

Neat flowering pots for bright shade.

Why it is a great choice: Neat, compact flowers for bright shade. Did you know? Its waxy leaves help it retain water.

Growing details and history

Origin: Brazil.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a bedding plant.
History: Hybridised in Europe in the 1800s.
On cold nights: Prefers nights above 10°C.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: Bright light, no harsh sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Dietmar Rabich · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Wax Plant (Hoya) Beginner pick

Hoya carnosa

Waxy, scented flower clusters on a trailing vine.

Why it is a great choice: Waxy, fragrant flower clusters on a long-lived vine. Did you know? Its flowers look like they are made of wax or porcelain.

Growing details and history

Origin: Eastern Asia and Australia.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: Named after Thomas Hoy, gardener to the Duke of Northumberland.
On cold nights: Keep above 10°C.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: Bright light, no harsh sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Light indoor mix: 40% cocopeat, 30% compost, 20% garden soil, 10% perlite or brick bits. Natural add-on: a small handful of vermicompost.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Yvan Leduc · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Wishbone Flower (Torenia) Beginner pick

Torenia fournieri

Monsoon colour for shady pots.

Why it is a great choice: Colour for shady pots in the rainy season. Did you know? The stamens form a wishbone shape inside each flower.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical Asia and Africa.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a bedding plant.
History: Named after Swedish clergyman Olof Torén.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth; protect from cold.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: Shade or indirect light
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions; Highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres. · in the ground, about 1 ft between plants
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: Grow Feb–Sep (summer & monsoon)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Aphids

Photo: Photo: PapiPijuan · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Yellow Bells (Tecoma) Beginner pick

Tecoma stans

Long flowering, drought-tough shrub loved by bees and sunbirds.

Why it is a great choice: Months of golden bells that feed pollinators, on very little water. Did you know? Its trumpet flowers are shaped perfectly for bees and sunbirds to reach the nectar.

Growing details and history

Origin: The Americas, from the southern United States to Argentina.
Where it grows today: Popular in India, Africa, Australia and Latin America; it is the official flower of the US Virgin Islands.
History: Valued for centuries in Mexico as a garden shrub and traditional remedy.
On cold nights: Handles cool nights well; light frost may cut it back but it regrows.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 4 ft between plants
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Gabriel Collares · CC BY 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Yellow Oleander Beginner pick

Cascabela thevetia

Bright yellow bell flowers on a fast shrub; seeds are highly poisonous – plant only where children cannot reach.

Why it is a great choice: Fast, cheerful yellow colour for a sunny boundary in hot climates. Did you know? The hard, lucky-nut-shaped seeds contain powerful heart toxins.

Growing details and history

Origin: Mexico and Central America.
Where it grows today: Common in gardens across India, Africa, Southeast Asia and tropical America.
History: Long grown as an ornamental and hedge in the tropics after spreading from Central America.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth; cold nights below 10°C slow flowering.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 4 ft between plants
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Poisonous if eaten – keep away from children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids, Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Anshik Kumar Tiwari · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Zinnia Beginner pick

Zinnia elegans

Easy seed flowers for children; blooms in 6 weeks.

Why it is a great choice: Easy, fast flowers that children love to grow. Did you know? They bloom within six weeks of sowing.

Growing details and history

Origin: Mexico.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a summer annual.
History: Zinnias were the first flowers grown on the International Space Station.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth; frost kills it.
Plant type: Flowering plant
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres. · in the ground, about 1 ft between plants
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: Grow Feb–Sep (summer & monsoon)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Pinch off faded flowers and add a handful of compost every month.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Powdery mildew, Caterpillars

Photo: Photo: Ermell · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Foliage plants & succulents

Arrowhead Plant (Syngonium) · Baby Rubber Plant (Peperomia) · Bermuda Grass · Bird's Nest Fern · Boston Fern · Bunny Ears Cactus · Calathea · Cast Iron Plant · Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema) · Chinese Money Plant (Pilea) · Corn Plant (Dracaena fragrans) · Creeping Daisy (Wedelia) · Crown Flower (Calotropis) · Cylindrical Snake Plant · Davana (Artemisia pallens) · Devil's Backbone (Pedilanthus) · Dragon Tree (Dracaena marginata) · Dumb Cane (Dieffenbachia) · Echeveria (Succulent Rosette) · Fiddle-leaf Fig · Heartleaf Philodendron · Inch Plant (Tradescantia zebrina) · Jade Plant · Lucky Bamboo · Maidenhair Fern · Money Plant (Golden Pothos) · Monstera (Swiss Cheese Plant) · Moses-in-the-Cradle (Rhoeo) · Nerve Plant (Fittonia) · Parlour Palm · Polka Dot Plant · Prayer Plant (Maranta) · Rubber Plant · Snake Plant (Sansevieria) · Song of India (Dracaena reflexa) · Spider Plant · String of Pearls · Umbrella Plant (Schefflera) · Zebra Haworthia · ZZ Plant

Arrowhead Plant (Syngonium) Beginner pick

Syngonium podophyllum

Pink or green arrow-shaped leaves; very easy on a table.

Why it is a great choice: Colourful, easy foliage for tables. Did you know? Its leaves change shape as the plant matures.

Growing details and history

Origin: Central and South America.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: Popular for its changing leaf shape.
On cold nights: Keep above 12°C.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: Bright light or gentle morning sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Light indoor mix: 40% cocopeat, 30% compost, 20% garden soil, 10% perlite or brick bits. Natural add-on: a small handful of vermicompost.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Stephanie cheks · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Baby Rubber Plant (Peperomia) Beginner pick

Peperomia obtusifolia

Compact glossy leaves; a pet-safe desk plant.

Why it is a great choice: A compact, pet-safe desk plant. Did you know? It stores water in its thick leaves.

Growing details and history

Origin: Florida, Mexico and the Caribbean.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: A compact houseplant favourite.
On cold nights: Keep above 12°C.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: Bright light or gentle morning sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony
Pot or space needed: undefined
Mature size: Usually under 1 ft (30 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Light indoor mix: 40% cocopeat, 30% compost, 20% garden soil, 10% perlite or brick bits. Natural add-on: a small handful of vermicompost.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Diego Delso · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Bermuda Grass Beginner pick

Cynodon dactylon

Hardy grass with sacred uses; grow a tray for daily use.

Why it is a great choice: A hardy, fast grass that is easy to grow in a tray. Did you know? It is one of the most drought-tolerant lawn grasses.

Growing details and history

Origin: Africa and South Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a lawn and pasture grass.
History: Revered in Indian traditions for centuries.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; goes dormant in cold.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres. · in the ground, about 1 ft between plants
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Use a pot with drainage holes and a light, compost-rich mix.
Potting mix: Free-draining herb mix: 40% garden soil, 20% compost, 20% cocopeat, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: a small handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Caterpillars

Photo: Photo: Bidgee · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Bird's Nest Fern Beginner pick

Asplenium nidus

Wavy bright-green fronds; pet-safe and good in bathrooms.

Why it is a great choice: Bright, wavy fronds that are safe for pets. Did you know? In the wild, it grows on trees.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical Asia, Australia and Africa.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: A popular fern for bathrooms.
On cold nights: Keep above 12°C.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: Low to bright indirect light
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres.
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Moist fern mix: 50% cocopeat, 30% leaf compost, 20% garden soil. Natural add-on: a small handful of leaf compost on top.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Steve Fitzgerald · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Boston Fern

Nephrolepis exaltata

Lush hanging fern for shaded verandas.

Why it is a great choice: Lush, cascading greenery for shaded spaces. Did you know? A mature plant can have hundreds of fronds.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical Americas.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a hanging plant.
History: Discovered in a shipment to Boston in 1894 – hence its name.
On cold nights: Prefers nights above 10°C.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: Bright light, no harsh sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres.
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Moist fern mix: 50% cocopeat, 30% leaf compost, 20% garden soil. Natural add-on: a small handful of leaf compost on top.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Homer Edward Price · CC BY 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Bunny Ears Cactus Beginner pick

Opuntia microdasys

Needs a sunny sill; fine bristles sting – handle with care.

Why it is a great choice: A fun, easy cactus for sunny windows. Did you know? Its "fur" is made of tiny barbed bristles.

Growing details and history

Origin: Northern Mexico.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: Popular for its bunny-ear pads.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights if kept dry.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Thorny / spiny – keep away from play areas
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Gritty succulent mix: 30% garden soil, 40% coarse sand, 20% brick pieces or perlite, 10% compost. Natural add-on: nothing else – rich soil rots succulents.
Homemade compost: Yes, a little: at most 10% sieved, mature compost in a gritty mix. Too much keeps the soil wet and rots succulents.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Calathea

Goeppertia

Patterned leaves that fold up at night; needs humidity.

Why it is a great choice: Stunning patterned leaves that move with the day. Did you know? Its leaves fold up at night – it is a "prayer plant" relative.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical Americas, especially Brazil.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: Its leaves have been used for wrapping food in South America.
On cold nights: Keep above 15°C.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: Bright light, no harsh sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions; Highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres.
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Light indoor mix: 40% cocopeat, 30% compost, 20% garden soil, 10% perlite or brick bits. Natural add-on: a small handful of vermicompost.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Chhe (talk) · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

Cast Iron Plant Beginner pick

Aspidistra elatior

Survives deep shade and neglect.

Why it is a great choice: One of the toughest plants for dark rooms. Did you know? It earned its name by surviving deep shade, cold and neglect.

Growing details and history

Origin: Japan and Taiwan.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: A Victorian favourite because it survived gaslight fumes.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights well.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: Low to bright indirect light
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres.
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Light indoor mix: 40% cocopeat, 30% compost, 20% garden soil, 10% perlite or brick bits. Natural add-on: a small handful of vermicompost.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: KENPEI · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema) Beginner pick

Aglaonema commutatum

Red, pink or silver patterned leaves; one of the best low-light plants.

Why it is a great choice: Colourful leaves that brighten dark corners. Did you know? It thrives in low light.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: Considered lucky in many Asian cultures.
On cold nights: Keep above 15°C.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: Low to bright indirect light
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres.
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Light indoor mix: 40% cocopeat, 30% compost, 20% garden soil, 10% perlite or brick bits. Natural add-on: a small handful of vermicompost.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Yercaud-elango · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Chinese Money Plant (Pilea) Beginner pick

Pilea peperomioides

Round coin-shaped leaves; pet-safe and easy to share.

Why it is a great choice: A pet-safe, easy plant that is fun to share. Did you know? Its round leaves look like coins.

Growing details and history

Origin: Yunnan province, China.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: Spread around the world by travellers who shared cuttings.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; protect from frost.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: Bright light, no harsh sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony
Pot or space needed: undefined
Mature size: Usually under 1 ft (30 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Light indoor mix: 40% cocopeat, 30% compost, 20% garden soil, 10% perlite or brick bits. Natural add-on: a small handful of vermicompost.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Husky · CC0 · Wikimedia Commons

Corn Plant (Dracaena fragrans) Beginner pick

Dracaena fragrans

Broad striped leaves; tolerates medium light.

Why it is a great choice: A tough, attractive plant for medium light. Did you know? Its flowers are intensely fragrant at night.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical Africa.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: A classic office plant.
On cold nights: Keep above 12°C.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: Bright light or gentle morning sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more.
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Light indoor mix: 40% cocopeat, 30% compost, 20% garden soil, 10% perlite or brick bits. Natural add-on: a small handful of vermicompost.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: jkrup4 · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

Creeping Daisy (Wedelia) Beginner pick

Sphagneticola trilobata

Yellow ground-cover; keep in pots, it spreads fast.

Why it is a great choice: A fast, cheerful yellow carpet – best kept in pots so it does not spread. Did you know? It roots wherever a stem touches the ground, spreading quickly.

Growing details and history

Origin: Central and South America and the Caribbean.
Where it grows today: Used as ground cover across the tropics; invasive in some countries.
History: Planted widely as ground cover for erosion control.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; growth slows in winter.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres. · in the ground, about 1 ft between plants
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Use a pot with drainage holes and a light, compost-rich mix.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Aphids

Photo: Photo: CC BY-SA 2.5 · Wikimedia Commons

Crown Flower (Calotropis) Beginner pick

Calotropis gigantea

Waxy flowers and grey-green leaves; milky sap is poisonous.

Why it is a great choice: A hardy butterfly host plant for dry gardens. Did you know? It is a host plant for monarch-type butterflies.

Growing details and history

Origin: South and Southeast Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Southeast Asia and Africa.
History: Used in traditional medicine and decoration.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; protect from frost.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 4 ft between plants
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Poisonous if eaten – keep away from children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Use a pot with drainage holes and a light, compost-rich mix.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Jeevan Jose · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Cylindrical Snake Plant Beginner pick

Dracaena angolensis

Round spear-like leaves; even tougher than the common snake plant.

Why it is a great choice: An even tougher snake plant with sculptural leaves. Did you know? Its leaves can be braided.

Growing details and history

Origin: Angola.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: A modern favourite for its spear-like leaves.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights above 10°C.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: Low to bright indirect light
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Gritty succulent mix: 30% garden soil, 40% coarse sand, 20% brick pieces or perlite, 10% compost. Natural add-on: nothing else – rich soil rots succulents.
Homemade compost: Yes, a little: at most 10% sieved, mature compost in a gritty mix. Too much keeps the soil wet and rots succulents.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: David E Mead · CC0 · Wikimedia Commons

Davana (Artemisia pallens)

Artemisia pallens

Silvery, fragrant leaves used in flower arrangements and perfumery.

Why it is a great choice: Unique fragrance from silvery foliage. Did you know? Its scent has fruity, rum-like notes.

Growing details and history

Origin: Southern India.
Where it grows today: Grown mainly in southern India for its essential oil.
History: Its oil is used in international perfumery.
On cold nights: Grows in the cool season.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: Grow Oct–Feb (cool season)
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Use a pot with drainage holes and a light, compost-rich mix.
Potting mix: Free-draining herb mix: 40% garden soil, 20% compost, 20% cocopeat, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: a small handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix. For sowing, use only well-matured, sieved compost (up to 20–25% of the seed mix). Top-dress every 4–6 weeks.
Watch for: Aphids

Photo: Photo: Yercaud-elango · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Devil's Backbone (Pedilanthus) Beginner pick

Euphorbia tithymaloides

Zig-zag stems, very drought tolerant; milky sap irritates skin.

Why it is a great choice: A sculptural, drought-tolerant plant that looks striking with almost no care. Did you know? The stem changes direction at every leaf, creating its famous zig-zag pattern.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical North and Central America and the Caribbean.
Where it grows today: Grown as an ornamental in warm countries and as a houseplant in cooler ones.
History: Its zig-zag stems earned it many folk names, including "devil's backbone" and "zig-zag plant".
On cold nights: Keep above 10°C; it is a true tropical plant.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: 2–4 hours of gentle sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 2 ft between plants
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Light indoor mix: 40% cocopeat, 30% compost, 20% garden soil, 10% perlite or brick bits. Natural add-on: a small handful of vermicompost.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Tauʻolunga · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Dragon Tree (Dracaena marginata) Beginner pick

Dracaena marginata

Slim spiky leaves on canes; forgiving of missed watering.

Why it is a great choice: A slim, tough plant that forgives missed watering. Did you know? Its red-edged leaves grow in tufts on slender stems.

Growing details and history

Origin: Madagascar.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: A popular houseplant since the 1970s.
On cold nights: Keep above 12°C.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: Bright light or gentle morning sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more.
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Light indoor mix: 40% cocopeat, 30% compost, 20% garden soil, 10% perlite or brick bits. Natural add-on: a small handful of vermicompost.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Deepika Govindaraj · CC BY 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Dumb Cane (Dieffenbachia) Beginner pick

Dieffenbachia seguine

Large variegated leaves; sap is toxic if chewed.

Why it is a great choice: Large, striking foliage for living rooms. (Sap is toxic if chewed.) Did you know? Its sap can cause temporary swelling of the tongue.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical Americas.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: Its sap can temporarily numb the mouth – hence "dumb cane".
On cold nights: Keep above 15°C.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: Bright light, no harsh sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres.
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Poisonous if eaten – keep away from children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Light indoor mix: 40% cocopeat, 30% compost, 20% garden soil, 10% perlite or brick bits. Natural add-on: a small handful of vermicompost.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Uprising Man · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Echeveria (Succulent Rosette) Beginner pick

Echeveria

Sculptural succulent rosettes for sunny windowsills.

Why it is a great choice: Tiny living sculptures that need very little water. Did you know? A single leaf can grow into a whole new plant.

Growing details and history

Origin: Mexico and Central America.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: Named after Mexican botanical artist Atanasio Echeverría.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; protect from frost.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: 2–4 hours of gentle sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 6 inches between plants
Mature size: Usually under 1 ft (30 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Gritty succulent mix: 30% garden soil, 40% coarse sand, 20% brick pieces or perlite, 10% compost. Natural add-on: nothing else – rich soil rots succulents.
Homemade compost: Yes, a little: at most 10% sieved, mature compost in a gritty mix. Too much keeps the soil wet and rots succulents.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Root or stem rot

Photo: Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Fiddle-leaf Fig

Ficus lyrata

Statement plant with violin-shaped leaves; keep it in one bright spot.

Why it is a great choice: A dramatic statement plant for bright rooms. Did you know? Its leaves can grow 45 cm long.

Growing details and history

Origin: Western Africa.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: Became a design icon in the 2010s.
On cold nights: Keep above 15°C.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: Bright light, no harsh sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more.
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹₹ Premium (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Light indoor mix: 40% cocopeat, 30% compost, 20% garden soil, 10% perlite or brick bits. Natural add-on: a small handful of vermicompost.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Heartleaf Philodendron Beginner pick

Philodendron hederaceum

Fast trailing heart-shaped leaves; happy in low light.

Why it is a great choice: Fast, trailing greenery that tolerates low light. Did you know? It can climb or trail.

Growing details and history

Origin: Central America and the Caribbean.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: A popular houseplant since the 1930s.
On cold nights: Keep above 12°C.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: Low to bright indirect light
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Light indoor mix: 40% cocopeat, 30% compost, 20% garden soil, 10% perlite or brick bits. Natural add-on: a small handful of vermicompost.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Inch Plant (Tradescantia zebrina) Beginner pick

Tradescantia zebrina

Silver-and-purple trailing leaves for a hanging pot.

Why it is a great choice: Silvery-purple trailing leaves that grow fast. Did you know? It grows about an inch a week – hence "inch plant".

Growing details and history

Origin: Mexico and Central America.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: Named after John Tradescant, a 17th-century English gardener.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; protect from frost.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: Bright light or gentle morning sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Light indoor mix: 40% cocopeat, 30% compost, 20% garden soil, 10% perlite or brick bits. Natural add-on: a small handful of vermicompost.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Yercaud-elango · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Jade Plant Beginner pick

Crassula ovata

Popular good-luck plant for the entrance; needs a bright window.

Why it is a great choice: A long-lived, low-care succulent that can be passed down generations. Did you know? It can live for 100 years or more.

Growing details and history

Origin: South Africa and Mozambique.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: A traditional good-luck plant in East Asia.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; protect from frost.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Gritty succulent mix: 30% garden soil, 40% coarse sand, 20% brick pieces or perlite, 10% compost. Natural add-on: nothing else – rich soil rots succulents.
Homemade compost: Yes, a little: at most 10% sieved, mature compost in a gritty mix. Too much keeps the soil wet and rots succulents.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Root or stem rot

Photo: Photo: Didier Descouens · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Lucky Bamboo Beginner pick

Dracaena sanderiana

Good-luck plant in a bowl of water; change the water weekly.

Why it is a great choice: A symbol of good fortune that grows in water. Did you know? It is not bamboo – it is a dracaena.

Growing details and history

Origin: Central Africa.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as an indoor plant.
History: Became a symbol of good luck in Chinese culture.
On cold nights: Keep above 15°C.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: Bright light, no harsh sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Light indoor mix: 40% cocopeat, 30% compost, 20% garden soil, 10% perlite or brick bits. Natural add-on: a small handful of vermicompost.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Slyronit · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Maidenhair Fern

Adiantum raddianum

Delicate lacy fronds; keep the soil evenly moist.

Why it is a great choice: Delicate, lacy fronds for humid rooms. Did you know? Its leaves repel water.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical Americas.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: A Victorian favourite.
On cold nights: Keep above 12°C.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: Bright light, no harsh sun
Watering: Daily in summer – keep soil moist
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Moist fern mix: 50% cocopeat, 30% leaf compost, 20% garden soil. Natural add-on: a small handful of leaf compost on top.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Money Plant (Golden Pothos) Beginner pick

Epipremnum aureum

Easy trailing plant; climbs a moss pole or trails from shelves.

Why it is a great choice: One of the easiest plants to grow – it thrives in water or soil. Did you know? In the wild, its leaves can grow over 1 metre long.

Growing details and history

Origin: French Polynesia.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: Famous as a "lucky" plant across Asia.
On cold nights: Keep above 10°C.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: Low to bright indirect light
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Light indoor mix: 40% cocopeat, 30% compost, 20% garden soil, 10% perlite or brick bits. Natural add-on: a small handful of vermicompost.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Root or stem rot

Photo: Photo: Mokkie · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Monstera (Swiss Cheese Plant) Beginner pick

Monstera deliciosa

Big split leaves; give a moss pole to climb.

Why it is a great choice: Bold tropical leaves that grow fast. Did you know? The holes in its leaves may help it survive strong winds.

Growing details and history

Origin: Southern Mexico and Central America.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: Became popular in Europe in the 1950s.
On cold nights: Keep above 12°C.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: Bright light, no harsh sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more.
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Light indoor mix: 40% cocopeat, 30% compost, 20% garden soil, 10% perlite or brick bits. Natural add-on: a small handful of vermicompost.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Smatu · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Moses-in-the-Cradle (Rhoeo) Beginner pick

Tradescantia spathacea

Purple-and-green rosettes; tough and fast-growing.

Why it is a great choice: Tough, colourful foliage that grows fast. Did you know? Its tiny flowers hide in boat-shaped bracts.

Growing details and history

Origin: Mexico and Central America.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant and ground cover.
History: Its name refers to the flowers sitting in boat-shaped bracts.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; protect from frost.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres. · in the ground, about 1 ft between plants
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Light indoor mix: 40% cocopeat, 30% compost, 20% garden soil, 10% perlite or brick bits. Natural add-on: a small handful of vermicompost.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Mike Peel (www.mikepeel.net) · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Nerve Plant (Fittonia)

Fittonia albivenis

Pink or white veined leaves; lovely in terrariums.

Why it is a great choice: Colourful veined leaves for terrariums. Did you know? Its leaves have bright, net-like veins.

Growing details and history

Origin: Peru.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: Popular in terrariums.
On cold nights: Keep above 15°C.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: Bright light, no harsh sun
Watering: Daily in summer – keep soil moist
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony
Pot or space needed: undefined
Mature size: Usually under 1 ft (30 cm)
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Light indoor mix: 40% cocopeat, 30% compost, 20% garden soil, 10% perlite or brick bits. Natural add-on: a small handful of vermicompost.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Why can't i get a cow · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Parlour Palm Beginner pick

Chamaedorea elegans

Slow, pet-safe palm for low-light rooms.

Why it is a great choice: A pet-safe palm for low-light rooms. Did you know? It is one of the slowest-growing palms.

Growing details and history

Origin: Southern Mexico and Guatemala.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as an indoor palm.
History: Popular in Victorian parlours – hence its name.
On cold nights: Keep above 10°C.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: Bright light, no harsh sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres.
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Light indoor mix: 40% cocopeat, 30% compost, 20% garden soil, 10% perlite or brick bits. Natural add-on: a small handful of vermicompost.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Bachelot Pierre J-P · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Polka Dot Plant Beginner pick

Hypoestes phyllostachya

Pink-speckled leaves; pinch the tips to keep it bushy.

Why it is a great choice: Bright, speckled leaves that add colour. Did you know? Its spots can be pink, red or white.

Growing details and history

Origin: Madagascar.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: Popular for its speckled leaves.
On cold nights: Keep above 12°C.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: Bright light, no harsh sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony
Pot or space needed: undefined
Mature size: Usually under 1 ft (30 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Light indoor mix: 40% cocopeat, 30% compost, 20% garden soil, 10% perlite or brick bits. Natural add-on: a small handful of vermicompost.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Forest & Kim Starr · CC BY 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Prayer Plant (Maranta)

Maranta leuconeura

Leaves fold up at night; pet-safe.

Why it is a great choice: Patterned leaves that move each day; pet-safe. Did you know? Its leaves fold up at night like praying hands.

Growing details and history

Origin: Brazil.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: Named after Italian botanist Bartolomeo Maranta.
On cold nights: Keep above 15°C.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: Bright light, no harsh sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Light indoor mix: 40% cocopeat, 30% compost, 20% garden soil, 10% perlite or brick bits. Natural add-on: a small handful of vermicompost.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: KATHERINE WAGNER-REISS · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Rubber Plant Beginner pick

Ficus elastica

Glossy dark leaves; tolerates medium light and air-conditioned rooms.

Why it is a great choice: Bold, glossy leaves that thrive in medium light. Did you know? Its new leaves unfurl from a red sheath.

Growing details and history

Origin: Northeast India and Southeast Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: Once grown for natural rubber.
On cold nights: Keep above 10°C.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: Bright light or gentle morning sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more.
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Light indoor mix: 40% cocopeat, 30% compost, 20% garden soil, 10% perlite or brick bits. Natural add-on: a small handful of vermicompost.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Photo by David J. Stang · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Snake Plant (Sansevieria) Beginner pick

Dracaena trifasciata

Nearly unkillable; low light to bright light, water once in 2–3 weeks.

Why it is a great choice: Nearly unkillable – the perfect first plant for any home. Did you know? It releases oxygen at night through a special type of photosynthesis.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical West Africa.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: Once called "mother-in-law's tongue" for its sharp leaves.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights above 10°C.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: Low to bright indirect light
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres. · in the ground, about 1 ft between plants
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Gritty succulent mix: 30% garden soil, 40% coarse sand, 20% brick pieces or perlite, 10% compost. Natural add-on: nothing else – rich soil rots succulents.
Homemade compost: Yes, a little: at most 10% sieved, mature compost in a gritty mix. Too much keeps the soil wet and rots succulents.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Mokkie · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Song of India (Dracaena reflexa) Beginner pick

Dracaena reflexa

Yellow-edged leaves on branching stems.

Why it is a great choice: Bright, golden-edged foliage. Did you know? Its leaves spiral around the stem.

Growing details and history

Origin: Madagascar and islands of the Indian Ocean.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: Popular in tropical gardens.
On cold nights: Keep above 12°C.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: Bright light or gentle morning sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres.
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Light indoor mix: 40% cocopeat, 30% compost, 20% garden soil, 10% perlite or brick bits. Natural add-on: a small handful of vermicompost.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Mokkie · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Spider Plant Beginner pick

Chlorophytum comosum

Pet-safe hanging plant with baby plantlets.

Why it is a great choice: A safe, easy plant for homes with pets and children. Did you know? It produces baby "spiderettes" that can be potted as new plants.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical and southern Africa.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: One of the most popular houseplants since the 1800s.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; protect from frost.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: Bright light, no harsh sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Light indoor mix: 40% cocopeat, 30% compost, 20% garden soil, 10% perlite or brick bits. Natural add-on: a small handful of vermicompost.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Scale insects

Photo: Photo: David J. Stang · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

String of Pearls

Curio rowleyanus

Bead-like succulent strands for a hanging pot.

Why it is a great choice: Unique trailing beads for a hanging pot. Did you know? Its "pearls" have a tiny window that lets light in.

Growing details and history

Origin: Southwest Africa.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: Popular for its bead-like leaves.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; protect from frost.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: Bright light or gentle morning sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony
Pot or space needed: undefined
Mature size: Usually under 1 ft (30 cm)
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Gritty succulent mix: 30% garden soil, 40% coarse sand, 20% brick pieces or perlite, 10% compost. Natural add-on: nothing else – rich soil rots succulents.
Homemade compost: Yes, a little: at most 10% sieved, mature compost in a gritty mix. Too much keeps the soil wet and rots succulents.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Agnieszka Kwiecień, Nova · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Umbrella Plant (Schefflera) Beginner pick

Schefflera arboricola

Glossy umbrella-shaped leaves; tolerates medium light.

Why it is a great choice: Glossy, easy foliage for medium light. Did you know? Its leaves radiate like an umbrella.

Growing details and history

Origin: Taiwan and Hainan.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: A popular houseplant since the 1970s.
On cold nights: Keep above 10°C.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: Bright light or gentle morning sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres.
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Light indoor mix: 40% cocopeat, 30% compost, 20% garden soil, 10% perlite or brick bits. Natural add-on: a small handful of vermicompost.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Dandy1022 · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Zebra Haworthia Beginner pick

Haworthiopsis attenuata

Tiny striped succulent for a desk near a window.

Why it is a great choice: A tiny, striking succulent for desks. Did you know? Its white stripes are raised bumps.

Growing details and history

Origin: South Africa.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: Popular as a small succulent for desks.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; protect from frost.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: Bright light or gentle morning sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: undefined
Mature size: Usually under 1 ft (30 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Gritty succulent mix: 30% garden soil, 40% coarse sand, 20% brick pieces or perlite, 10% compost. Natural add-on: nothing else – rich soil rots succulents.
Homemade compost: Yes, a little: at most 10% sieved, mature compost in a gritty mix. Too much keeps the soil wet and rots succulents.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Dandy1022 · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

ZZ Plant Beginner pick

Zamioculcas zamiifolia

Glossy, drought-proof plant for dim corners.

Why it is a great choice: Glossy, nearly indestructible greenery for dim corners. Did you know? It stores water in its thick underground rhizomes.

Growing details and history

Origin: Eastern Africa.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: Became a global houseplant star in the 1990s.
On cold nights: Keep above 10°C.
Plant type: Foliage plant / succulent
Sunlight: Low to bright indirect light
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Gritty succulent mix: 30% garden soil, 40% coarse sand, 20% brick pieces or perlite, 10% compost. Natural add-on: nothing else – rich soil rots succulents.
Homemade compost: Yes, a little: at most 10% sieved, mature compost in a gritty mix. Too much keeps the soil wet and rots succulents.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: WeFt · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Hedges, palms & screens

Acalypha (Copperleaf) · Areca Palm · Bamboo Palm · Bloodleaf (Iresine) · Clumping Bamboo · Croton · Ficus Panda (Hedge & Topiary) · Golden Bamboo · Golden Duranta · Golden Eranthemum · Joyweed Border (Alternanthera) · Lady Palm (Rhapis) · Lettuce Tree (Pisonia)

Acalypha (Copperleaf) Beginner pick

Acalypha wilkesiana

Colourful leaf hedge for boundaries; no flowers needed for colour.

Why it is a great choice: Gives a boundary rich colour from leaves alone, all year round. Did you know? No two leaves are coloured exactly alike – shades of copper, red, pink and green appear on one plant.

Growing details and history

Origin: The South Pacific islands, especially Fiji and Vanuatu.
Where it grows today: A common colourful hedge across tropical Asia, Africa and the Americas.
History: Spread from Pacific island gardens to botanical gardens worldwide in the 1800s.
On cold nights: Dislikes nights below 10°C; leaves may drop in a cold snap.
Plant type: Hedge, palm or screen
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 2 ft between plants
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Use a pot with drainage holes and a light, compost-rich mix.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Antoniocarlosbrasil · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Areca Palm Beginner pick

Dypsis lutescens

Feathery palm for bright rooms and shaded balconies.

Why it is a great choice: A graceful palm that brings a tropical feel indoors. Did you know? It is sometimes called the "butterfly palm" for its arching fronds.

Growing details and history

Origin: Madagascar.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as an indoor and garden palm.
History: Became a houseplant classic after studies listed it among good indoor plants.
On cold nights: Keep above 10°C.
Plant type: Hedge, palm or screen
Sunlight: Bright light or gentle morning sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 4 ft between plants
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Light indoor mix: 40% cocopeat, 30% compost, 20% garden soil, 10% perlite or brick bits. Natural add-on: a small handful of vermicompost.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Ping an Chang · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Bamboo Palm Beginner pick

Chamaedorea seifrizii

Indoor palm screen for partitions.

Why it is a great choice: A graceful indoor palm for screens and partitions. Did you know? It grows in clumps of slender, bamboo-like stems.

Growing details and history

Origin: Mexico and Central America.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as an indoor palm.
History: Listed among useful indoor plants in early studies of indoor air.
On cold nights: Keep above 10°C.
Plant type: Hedge, palm or screen
Sunlight: Bright light, no harsh sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more.
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Light indoor mix: 40% cocopeat, 30% compost, 20% garden soil, 10% perlite or brick bits. Natural add-on: a small handful of vermicompost.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Bloodleaf (Iresine) Beginner pick

Iresine herbstii

Deep red foliage border; pinch tips to keep it bushy.

Why it is a great choice: Deep red foliage that stays colourful whether or not anything is flowering. Did you know? Its glossy red leaves look almost lacquered, with pink veins.

Growing details and history

Origin: Brazil.
Where it grows today: Grown as a colourful border and bedding plant in warm climates worldwide.
History: Introduced to European gardens in the 1800s as a foliage plant for summer bedding.
On cold nights: Sensitive to cold; keep above 10°C.
Plant type: Hedge, palm or screen
Sunlight: 2–4 hours of gentle sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres. · in the ground, about 1 ft between plants
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Use a pot with drainage holes and a light, compost-rich mix.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Chhe · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

Clumping Bamboo Beginner pick

Bambusa multiplex

Non-invasive clumping bamboo for a tall living screen.

Why it is a great choice: A tall, non-invasive living screen for privacy. Did you know? Unlike running bamboos, it grows in tidy clumps and does not spread.

Growing details and history

Origin: Southern China and Vietnam.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide in warm gardens.
History: Used for centuries in Asian gardens as a living screen.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights and light frost.
Plant type: Hedge, palm or screen
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 10 ft between plants
Mature size: About 10–20 ft (3–6 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Use a pot with drainage holes and a light, compost-rich mix.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Vis M · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Croton Beginner pick

Codiaeum variegatum

Red-and-yellow leaves; needs the brightest window indoors.

Why it is a great choice: Bold, colourful leaves for bright spaces. Did you know? No two leaves look exactly the same.

Growing details and history

Origin: Indonesia, Malaysia and the Pacific islands.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant and hedge.
History: Popular in Victorian conservatories.
On cold nights: Keep above 15°C.
Plant type: Hedge, palm or screen
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 2 ft between plants
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Light indoor mix: 40% cocopeat, 30% compost, 20% garden soil, 10% perlite or brick bits. Natural add-on: a small handful of vermicompost.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: SAplants · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Ficus Panda (Hedge & Topiary) Beginner pick

Ficus microcarpa

Glossy leaves that clip into neat shapes.

Why it is a great choice: A glossy, easy-to-shape hedge for a neat garden. Did you know? Its small, rounded leaves make it perfect for clipping into shapes.

Growing details and history

Origin: Southern China, Southeast Asia and northern Australia.
Where it grows today: Used as a clipped hedge and topiary worldwide.
History: A long-time favourite for formal hedges in Asian gardens.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights.
Plant type: Hedge, palm or screen
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 25–30 cm (10–12 inch) pot or grow bag, about 10–15 litres. · in the ground, about 2 ft between plants
Mature size: About 2–4 ft (0.6–1.2 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Light indoor mix: 40% cocopeat, 30% compost, 20% garden soil, 10% perlite or brick bits. Natural add-on: a small handful of vermicompost.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: H. Zell · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Golden Bamboo Beginner pick

Bambusa vulgaris

Golden canes; large and fast – ground or big tubs.

Why it is a great choice: Bright golden canes for a large, fast screen. Did you know? Its canes can grow up to 30 cm in a single day.

Growing details and history

Origin: Southeast Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown across the tropics.
History: One of the most widely planted bamboos in the world.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth; tolerates light frost.
Plant type: Hedge, palm or screen
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 12 ft between plants
Mature size: About 10–20 ft (3–6 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Use a pot with drainage holes and a light, compost-rich mix.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Photo by David J. Stang · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Golden Duranta Beginner pick

Duranta erecta

Bright lime-gold hedge that trims neatly and copes with intense heat.

Why it is a great choice: A low-cost way to get a bright, tidy boundary that stays colourful without flowers. Did you know? Its leaves glow brightest in full sun – shade turns them green.

Growing details and history

Origin: Mexico, the Caribbean and tropical South America.
Where it grows today: Widely planted as a hedge across South and Southeast Asia, Africa and the southern United States.
History: The golden-leaved form was selected by nurseries for its colour and has become a favourite formal hedge.
On cold nights: Comfortable down to about 5°C; growth simply slows in winter.
Plant type: Hedge, palm or screen
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 4 ft between plants
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Use a pot with drainage holes and a light, compost-rich mix.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Golden Eranthemum Beginner pick

Pseuderanthemum reticulatum

Golden-yellow leaf shrub for low hedges.

Why it is a great choice: A bright golden hedge that lightens shaded corners and needs little pruning. Did you know? Young leaves are the brightest gold; colour deepens with full sun.

Growing details and history

Origin: The South Pacific islands.
Where it grows today: Planted as a low hedge across South and Southeast Asia and the Pacific.
History: Spread through tropical gardens for its golden, net-veined foliage.
On cold nights: Prefers nights above 12°C.
Plant type: Hedge, palm or screen
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres. · in the ground, about 1 ft between plants
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Use a pot with drainage holes and a light, compost-rich mix.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Vijayanrajapuram · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Joyweed Border (Alternanthera) Beginner pick

Alternanthera bettzickiana

Low coloured edging for beds and pathways.

Why it is a great choice: Neat, low, coloured edging that frames beds and paths beautifully. Did you know? It can be clipped to just a few centimetres high, like a living carpet.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical Central and South America.
Where it grows today: Used for edging and carpet bedding in parks and gardens across the tropics.
History: Victorian gardeners used it to create intricate carpet-bedding patterns.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth; growth stops in cold nights.
Plant type: Hedge, palm or screen
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres. · in the ground, about 1 ft between plants
Mature size: About 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Use a pot with drainage holes and a light, compost-rich mix.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: David E Mead · CC0 · Wikimedia Commons

Lady Palm (Rhapis) Beginner pick

Rhapis excelsa

Elegant fan palm screen for living rooms.

Why it is a great choice: An elegant palm that tolerates shade. Did you know? It is among the most tolerant palms for low light.

Growing details and history

Origin: Southern China and Taiwan.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as an indoor palm.
History: Cultivated in Japanese imperial palaces.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights.
Plant type: Hedge, palm or screen
Sunlight: Bright light, no harsh sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more.
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹₹ Premium (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Water only when the top of the soil is dry; wipe leaves monthly and turn the pot every week.
Potting mix: Light indoor mix: 40% cocopeat, 30% compost, 20% garden soil, 10% perlite or brick bits. Natural add-on: a small handful of vermicompost.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Aris riyanto · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Lettuce Tree (Pisonia) Beginner pick

Pisonia grandis

Lime-green leaves soften walls; good in large containers.

Why it is a great choice: Brightens walls and corners with soft lime-green foliage. Did you know? Its leaves are edible – hence the name "lettuce tree".

Growing details and history

Origin: Coastal islands of the Indian and Pacific oceans.
Where it grows today: Grown as a foliage plant across tropical Asia.
History: Its tender leaves are cooked as a vegetable in parts of Southeast Asia.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth; protect from cold winds.
Plant type: Hedge, palm or screen
Sunlight: 2–4 hours of gentle sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 6 ft between plants
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Use a pot with drainage holes and a light, compost-rich mix.
Potting mix: Flowering-plant mix: 40% garden soil, 30% compost or vermicompost, 30% cocopeat. Natural add-on: a handful of bone meal (for flowers) and a handful of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Mealybugs, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Forest & Kim Starr · CC BY 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Trees

African Tulip Tree Beginner pick

Spathodea campanulata

Orange tulip flowers; fast shade in humid regions.

Why it is a great choice: Fast shade with large orange-red tulip flowers in humid regions. Did you know? Children use the unopened flower buds as water pistols.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical Africa.
Where it grows today: Planted across the tropics; invasive in Hawaii and some Pacific islands.
History: Spread worldwide as an ornamental in the 19th century.
On cold nights: Sensitive to cold; best in frost-free climates.
Plant type: Tree
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 25 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: H. Zell · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Arjuna Tree Beginner pick

Terminalia arjuna

Native riverside shade tree whose bark is used in traditional remedies.

Why it is a great choice: A strong, long-lived native shade tree. Did you know? Its bark peels off in large, smooth sheets.

Growing details and history

Origin: The Indian subcontinent.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.
History: Its bark has been used in traditional heart remedies for centuries.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights.
Plant type: Tree
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 30 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: J.M.Garg · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Ashoka Tree (Saraca)

Saraca asoca

Sacred native tree with clusters of orange flowers; a protected species.

Why it is a great choice: A rare, culturally treasured tree that adds history to a garden. Did you know? Its flowers change from orange to red as they age.

Growing details and history

Origin: The Indian subcontinent.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Bangladesh.
History: Sacred in Hindu and Buddhist traditions; the Buddha is said to have been born under one.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth; protect young plants from cold.
Plant type: Tree
Sunlight: 2–4 hours of gentle sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Tropical regions; Humid regions; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 18 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: J.M.Garg · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Banyan Tree Beginner pick

Ficus benghalensis

India's national tree; needs a very large open plot.

Why it is a great choice: An iconic, majestic tree for very large grounds. Did you know? Its aerial roots become new trunks, so one tree can look like a forest.

Growing details and history

Origin: The Indian subcontinent.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
History: One banyan in Kolkata has spread over 18,000 square metres.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights.
Plant type: Tree
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 50 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: McKay Savage · CC BY 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Blackboard Tree (Alstonia) Beginner pick

Alstonia scholaris

Fast shade; flowers are strongly scented in Oct–Nov – plant away from bedrooms.

Why it is a great choice: Fast, tall shade – best planted away from bedrooms because of its strong scent. Did you know? Its leaves grow in whorls, like the spokes of an umbrella.

Growing details and history

Origin: South and Southeast Asia and Australia.
Where it grows today: Planted across India, Southeast Asia and southern China.
History: Its wood was traditionally used to make school writing slates – hence "blackboard tree".
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights.
Plant type: Tree
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 25 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Jeevan Jose, Kerala, India · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Burflower Tree Beginner pick

Neolamarckia cadamba

Fast shade tree with golden ball-shaped flowers in the rainy season.

Why it is a great choice: Fragrant golden flower balls on a fast-growing shade tree. Did you know? Its flowers are perfectly round, fragrant balls.

Growing details and history

Origin: South and Southeast Asia.
Where it grows today: Planted across India, Southeast Asia and southern China.
History: A sacred tree in ancient Indian literature.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth; tolerates mild winters.
Plant type: Tree
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 30 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: AjayDas · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Cannonball Tree Beginner pick

Couroupita guianensis

Exotic tree with huge, fragrant flowers growing straight from the trunk.

Why it is a great choice: One of the most unusual and fragrant flowering trees. Did you know? Its round fruits can weigh up to 3 kg and look like cannonballs.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical Central and South America.
Where it grows today: Planted in botanical gardens across the tropics.
History: Introduced to Asia, where it became a popular temple and garden tree.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth; protect from cold.
Plant type: Tree
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Tropical regions; Humid regions; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 30 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Fotokannan · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Champak

Magnolia champaca

Intensely fragrant golden flowers on an evergreen tree.

Why it is a great choice: One of the most fragrant flowering trees in the world. Did you know? A single flower can scent an entire room.

Growing details and history

Origin: South and Southeast Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Southeast Asia and southern China.
History: Its flowers have been used in fine perfumes and hair garlands for centuries.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights.
Plant type: Tree
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 20 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: P Jeganathan · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Cluster Fig Beginner pick

Ficus racemosa

Native fig tree; its fruits feed many birds.

Why it is a great choice: A wildlife haven that attracts many fruit-eating birds. Did you know? Its figs grow in clusters directly on the trunk.

Growing details and history

Origin: South and Southeast Asia and Australia.
Where it grows today: Found across India, Southeast Asia and northern Australia.
History: A sacred tree in Indian traditions.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights.
Plant type: Tree
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 30 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Vinayaraj · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Copperpod (Yellow Flame Tree) Beginner pick

Peltophorum pterocarpum

Fast, tough shade tree with yellow summer flowers.

Why it is a great choice: Fast, tough shade with fragrant yellow flowers. Did you know? Its copper-coloured seed pods give it its name.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical Southeast Asia and northern Australia.
Where it grows today: A common avenue tree in India, Southeast Asia and Africa.
History: Long planted as a fast shade tree along roads.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; growth slows in winter.
Plant type: Tree
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 30 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Forest & Kim Starr · CC BY 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Flame of the Forest Beginner pick

Butea monosperma

Native tree whose bare branches turn flame-orange in spring.

Why it is a great choice: A spectacular native tree that feeds birds and blooms on bare branches. Did you know? In full bloom, whole forests seem to be on fire – hence its name.

Growing details and history

Origin: The Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Myanmar and Thailand.
History: Its flowers were traditionally used to make natural orange dye for spring festivals.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights and dry winters.
Plant type: Tree
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 20 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: SumaTagadur · CC BY-SA 2.5 · Wikimedia Commons

Ghaf Tree Beginner pick

Prosopis cineraria

Extremely drought-hardy desert tree.

Why it is a great choice: An extremely tough tree for very dry regions. Did you know? Its roots can reach water more than 30 metres underground.

Growing details and history

Origin: Western Asia and the Indian subcontinent.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Pakistan, Iran and the Arabian Peninsula; national tree of the UAE.
History: It survives desert droughts thanks to extremely deep roots.
On cold nights: Tolerates cold desert nights near 0°C.
Plant type: Tree
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 25 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Thorny / spiny – keep away from play areas
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Golden Shower Tree Beginner pick

Cassia fistula

Cascades of golden flower chains in summer; one of the most beautiful flowering trees.

Why it is a great choice: Few trees match its spectacular golden cascades in early summer. Did you know? Its long seed pods can reach 60 cm and rattle in the wind.

Growing details and history

Origin: The Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia.
Where it grows today: Planted in India, Thailand (its national tree), Sri Lanka, the Caribbean and Florida.
History: It is the national tree of Thailand and features in ancient Ayurvedic texts.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; flowers best after a dry, hot spell.
Plant type: Tree
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 20 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Basile Morin · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Indian Almond Beginner pick

Terminalia catappa

Tiered shade tree; good on coasts.

Why it is a great choice: A beautiful layered shade tree that handles salty coastal air. Did you know? Its leaves turn bright red before they fall, giving tropical autumn colour.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical Asia, Africa and northern Australia.
Where it grows today: Grown along coasts across the tropics.
History: Spread by ocean currents, as its fruits float.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth; best near coasts.
Plant type: Tree
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Tropical regions; Humid regions; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 30 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Hans Hillewaert · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Indian Butter Tree Beginner pick

Madhuca longifolia

Native tree whose sweet flowers feed birds and bats.

Why it is a great choice: A wildlife-friendly shade tree with remarkable sweet flowers. Did you know? Its flowers are so sweet they are eaten fresh or dried.

Growing details and history

Origin: The Indian subcontinent.
Where it grows today: Grown in central and eastern India and Sri Lanka.
History: Its flowers and seeds have supported rural communities for centuries.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights and dry winters.
Plant type: Tree
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 35 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: SMarndi · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Indian Cork Tree Beginner pick

Millingtonia hortensis

Tall tree with fragrant white flowers at night, Oct–Dec.

Why it is a great choice: A tall tree that fills the night air with fragrance. Did you know? Its long white flowers open at night and release a sweet scent.

Growing details and history

Origin: Myanmar and Thailand.
Where it grows today: Planted in India, Southeast Asia and Africa.
History: Its bark was once used as a cork substitute.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights.
Plant type: Tree
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 20 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: J.M.Garg · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Jacaranda Beginner pick

Jacaranda mimosifolia

Clouds of violet blossom in spring; best in climates with dry winters.

Why it is a great choice: One of the most photographed flowering trees in the world. Did you know? When it blooms, streets turn purple both above and on the ground.

Growing details and history

Origin: South-central South America (Argentina and Bolivia).
Where it grows today: Famous in South Africa, Australia, Mexico, Spain and California.
History: Pretoria in South Africa is called "Jacaranda City" for its tens of thousands of trees.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights and light frost once established.
Plant type: Tree
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Highlands
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 25 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: O Tupinólogo · CC BY 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Lipstick Tree (Annatto) Beginner pick

Bixa orellana

Pink flowers and red seed pods used as natural colour.

Why it is a great choice: Pretty pink flowers and fascinating natural colour pods children love. Did you know? Its seeds give annatto, the natural orange food colour used in cheese and snacks worldwide.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical Central and South America.
Where it grows today: Grown across Latin America, Africa and South Asia.
History: Indigenous peoples of the Amazon used its seeds as body paint for centuries.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth; dislikes nights below 12°C.
Plant type: Tree
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Terrace, Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: A 35–45 cm (14–18 inch) pot, grow bag or half-drum, 20–40 litres or more. · in the ground, about 12 ft between plants
Mature size: About 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m)
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Use a pot with drainage holes and a light, compost-rich mix.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 20–30% mature compost in the potting mix, and a 1–2 cm top-dressing every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct).
Watch for: Caterpillars, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Primejyothi · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Mast Tree Beginner pick

Monoon longifolium

Tall, slim column of green for boundaries and noise screening.

Why it is a great choice: A tall green screen that needs very little space. Did you know? The weeping form grows like a narrow green pillar.

Growing details and history

Origin: Sri Lanka and southern India.
Where it grows today: Planted across South and Southeast Asia as a screen.
History: Its tall straight trunks were once used for ships' masts.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights.
Plant type: Tree
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 8 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Omoo · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

Neem Beginner pick

Azadirachta indica

Cool shade and leaves used in many traditional remedies.

Why it is a great choice: A tough, long-lived shade tree that also gives natural pest protection. Did you know? Neem oil is used as a natural insect repellent worldwide.

Growing details and history

Origin: The Indian subcontinent.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Pakistan, Africa, the Middle East and Australia.
History: Used in traditional Ayurvedic practice for thousands of years.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; drops leaves in cold, dry winters.
Plant type: Tree
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 25 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Kevinsooryan · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Orchid Tree (Bauhinia) Beginner pick

Bauhinia variegata

Orchid-like flowers in spring on a medium-sized tree.

Why it is a great choice: Orchid-like blossoms on a tree – a beautiful spring display. Did you know? Its two-lobed leaves look like a butterfly or a camel's hoof.

Growing details and history

Origin: Southeast Asia and the Himalayan foothills.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, China, Southeast Asia, Australia and the southern United States.
History: Long admired in Asia; the Hong Kong orchid tree, a close relative, appears on Hong Kong's flag.
On cold nights: Handles cool nights well; light frost is tolerated.
Plant type: Tree
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 18 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Peter1968 · CC BY 2.5 · Wikimedia Commons

Pink Shower Tree Beginner pick

Cassia javanica

Pink blossom tree for avenues and large plots.

Why it is a great choice: A cloud of pink blossom for avenues and large gardens. Did you know? Its blossoms open dark pink and fade to pale pink, giving a two-tone effect.

Growing details and history

Origin: Southeast Asia.
Where it grows today: Planted along avenues across Southeast Asia, India and northern Australia.
History: A beloved ornamental tree throughout Southeast Asia.
On cold nights: Prefers warm nights above 10°C.
Plant type: Tree
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 25 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Forest and Kim Starr · CC BY 3.0 us · Wikimedia Commons

Pink Trumpet Tree (Tabebuia) Beginner pick

Handroanthus impetiginosus

Pink spring blossom on bare branches.

Why it is a great choice: A breathtaking pink blossom display on bare branches in spring. Did you know? It flowers on bare branches, so the whole tree turns pink.

Growing details and history

Origin: Central and South America.
Where it grows today: Planted in Brazil (as a national symbol), the southern United States and across Asia.
History: Its hard timber, known as ipê or lapacho, is among the densest in the world.
On cold nights: Handles cool nights well.
Plant type: Tree
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 20 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Giles Laurent · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Pongamia (Indian Beech) Beginner pick

Millettia pinnata

Dense green shade, very tough; good for boundary rows.

Why it is a great choice: Dense, tough shade that improves the soil – ideal for boundary rows. Did you know? It fixes nitrogen from the air, improving the soil around it.

Growing details and history

Origin: South and Southeast Asia and northern Australia.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Southeast Asia, Australia and Florida.
History: Its seed oil has long been used in lamps and as a biofuel.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights and light frost.
Plant type: Tree
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 25 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: J.M.Garg · CC BY 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Queen's Crape Myrtle Beginner pick

Lagerstroemia speciosa

Mauve flower clusters in summer; native Indian avenue tree.

Why it is a great choice: Showy mauve flower clusters on a native, hardy avenue tree. Did you know? Its crinkled petals look like crepe paper.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical South Asia.
Where it grows today: Planted in India, Southeast Asia and Australia; state flower of Maharashtra.
History: Its timber has long been used for boats and furniture.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth; drops leaves in a dry or cool season.
Plant type: Tree
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 20 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Lokenrc · CC BY 2.5 · Wikimedia Commons

Rain Tree Beginner pick

Samanea saman

Enormous umbrella canopy – only for very large grounds.

Why it is a great choice: An enormous umbrella canopy that shades a whole lawn. Did you know? Its leaves fold up before rain and at night.

Growing details and history

Origin: Central and South America.
Where it grows today: Planted across the tropics, from the Caribbean to India and Southeast Asia.
History: Introduced to Asia in the 1800s as a shade tree for plantations.
On cold nights: Prefers warmth; protect young trees from cold.
Plant type: Tree
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Tropical regions; Humid regions; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 50 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Myaataro · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

Red Silk Cotton Tree Beginner pick

Bombax ceiba

Red flowers full of nectar for birds; spiny trunk.

Why it is a great choice: A bird magnet with bold red flowers on bare branches. Did you know? Its large red flowers hold so much nectar that many bird species feed on them.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical Asia and northern Australia.
Where it grows today: Found across South and Southeast Asia, southern China and northern Australia.
History: Its seed fibre has long been used to stuff pillows and mattresses.
On cold nights: Handles cool, dry winters.
Plant type: Tree
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 30 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Thorny / spiny – keep away from play areas
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: John Robert McPherson · CC0 · Wikimedia Commons

Royal Poinciana (Flame Tree) Beginner pick

Delonix regia

Flaming summer canopy; needs open space away from walls.

Why it is a great choice: A breathtaking flame-red canopy in summer – the crown of any large garden. Did you know? Its feathery leaves fold up at night.

Growing details and history

Origin: Madagascar.
Where it grows today: Planted across the tropics, from the Caribbean and Florida to India and Australia.
History: Now rare in the wild in Madagascar, but one of the most widely planted trees in the world.
On cold nights: Dislikes cold; nights below 10°C cause leaf drop.
Plant type: Tree
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 30 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Averette · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Sacred Fig Beginner pick

Ficus religiosa

Sacred tree – plant only in open ground far from walls and pipes.

Why it is a great choice: A majestic, long-lived tree with deep cultural significance. Did you know? Its heart-shaped leaves end in a long "drip tip" that sheds rainwater.

Growing details and history

Origin: The Indian subcontinent.
Where it grows today: Grown in India, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia.
History: The Buddha attained enlightenment under one; a tree grown from it in Sri Lanka is over 2,000 years old.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights.
Plant type: Tree
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 40 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Eric Guinther · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Silver Trumpet Tree Beginner pick

Tabebuia aurea

Silver leaves and golden flowers; very drought tough.

Why it is a great choice: Golden flowers and silvery leaves on a very drought-tough tree. Did you know? Its silvery leaves reflect sunlight to stay cool.

Growing details and history

Origin: Brazil, Bolivia and Paraguay.
Where it grows today: Planted in tropical and subtropical gardens worldwide.
History: Adapted to the dry savannas of South America.
On cold nights: Handles cool nights; tolerates light frost.
Plant type: Tree
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 18 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Forest & Kim Starr · CC BY 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Spanish Cherry Beginner pick

Mimusops elengi

Tiny fragrant flowers that keep their scent even when dried.

Why it is a great choice: Dense shade and fragrant flowers that last. Did you know? Its dried flowers keep their perfume for months.

Growing details and history

Origin: South and Southeast Asia and northern Australia.
Where it grows today: Grown across India, Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia.
History: Its fragrant flowers are treasured in Indian classical poetry.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights.
Plant type: Tree
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Open ground (backyard / farm)
Pot or space needed: undefined · in the ground, about 25 ft between plants
Mature size: Tree – usually 20 ft (6 m) or taller
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹ Budget (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Plant at the start of the monsoon and water deeply for the first two summers.
Potting mix: Fruit-plant mix: 50% garden soil, 30% compost or well-rotted manure, 20% coarse sand. Natural add-on: 2 handfuls of neem cake and 2 handfuls of bone meal.
Homemade compost: Yes: 5–10 kg in a ring under the outer leaves 2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct), watered in. In a drum, use 1–2 kg every 2–3 months.
Watch for: Caterpillars, Scale insects

Photo: Photo: Mark Marathon · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Bonsai

Banyan and Sacred Fig Bonsai · Bougainvillea Bonsai · Dwarf Umbrella Bonsai (Schefflera) · Elephant Bush Bonsai (Portulacaria) · Ficus Ginseng Bonsai · Ficus Panda Bonsai · Fukien Tea Bonsai (Carmona) · Ming Aralia Bonsai · Money Tree (Pachira) · Pomegranate Bonsai · Ponytail Palm · Snow Rose Bonsai (Serissa) · Tamarind Bonsai · Weeping Fig Bonsai (Ficus benjamina)

Banyan and Sacred Fig Bonsai Beginner pick

Ficus benghalensis

Banyan or sacred fig grown as a miniature tree.

Why it is a great choice: A majestic tree in miniature form for patient growers. Did you know? Aerial roots can be trained to form a miniature banyan forest.

Growing details and history

Origin: The Indian subcontinent.
Where it grows today: Popular as a bonsai in India, Southeast Asia and beyond.
History: Fig bonsai are among the most popular in tropical countries.
On cold nights: Keep above 10°C.
Plant type: Bonsai
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: Kept small by pruning – usually 1–2 ft
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹₹₹ Collector (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Check the soil daily in summer; trim new shoots back to two leaves.
Potting mix: Fast-draining bonsai mix: 40% coarse sand or grit, 30% garden soil, 30% compost. Natural add-on: a pinch of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes, sparingly: about 20–30% sieved compost in a fast-draining bonsai mix, and a thin top-dressing in spring.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Shijan Kaakkara · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Bougainvillea Bonsai Beginner pick

Bougainvillea glabra

Colourful flowering bonsai for full sun.

Why it is a great choice: A colourful flowering bonsai for full sun. Did you know? Its trunk becomes thick and twisted with age.

Growing details and history

Origin: Brazil.
Where it grows today: Grown as a bonsai worldwide in warm climates.
History: Popular with bonsai artists for its flowers and gnarled trunks.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; protect from frost.
Plant type: Bonsai
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: Kept small by pruning – usually 1–2 ft
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Thorny / spiny – keep away from play areas
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹₹ Premium (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Check the soil daily in summer; trim new shoots back to two leaves.
Potting mix: Fast-draining bonsai mix: 40% coarse sand or grit, 30% garden soil, 30% compost. Natural add-on: a pinch of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes, sparingly: about 20–30% sieved compost in a fast-draining bonsai mix, and a thin top-dressing in spring.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Thebestbonsai · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Dwarf Umbrella Bonsai (Schefflera)

Schefflera arboricola

Hardy indoor bonsai with umbrella leaves.

Why it is a great choice: A hardy, forgiving indoor bonsai. Did you know? Its leaves radiate like the spokes of an umbrella.

Growing details and history

Origin: Taiwan and Hainan.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a bonsai and houseplant.
History: A popular indoor bonsai since the 1970s.
On cold nights: Keep above 10°C.
Plant type: Bonsai
Sunlight: Bright light or gentle morning sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: Kept small by pruning – usually 1–2 ft
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Check the soil daily in summer; trim new shoots back to two leaves.
Potting mix: Fast-draining bonsai mix: 40% coarse sand or grit, 30% garden soil, 30% compost. Natural add-on: a pinch of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes, sparingly: about 20–30% sieved compost in a fast-draining bonsai mix, and a thin top-dressing in spring.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Cbaile19 · CC0 · Wikimedia Commons

Elephant Bush Bonsai (Portulacaria) Beginner pick

Portulacaria afra

Succulent bonsai, very forgiving of missed watering.

Why it is a great choice: A succulent bonsai that survives missed watering. Did you know? Elephants and tortoises eat it in the wild.

Growing details and history

Origin: South Africa.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a bonsai and houseplant.
History: Eaten by elephants in the wild – hence its name.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights if kept dry.
Plant type: Bonsai
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: Kept small by pruning – usually 1–2 ft
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Check the soil daily in summer; trim new shoots back to two leaves.
Potting mix: Gritty succulent mix: 30% garden soil, 40% coarse sand, 20% brick pieces or perlite, 10% compost. Natural add-on: nothing else – rich soil rots succulents.
Homemade compost: Yes, a little: at most 10% sieved, mature compost in a gritty mix. Too much keeps the soil wet and rots succulents.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Tangopaso · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

Ficus Ginseng Bonsai Beginner pick

Ficus microcarpa

Thick-root starter bonsai for bright indoor spots.

Why it is a great choice: A sculptural, easy starter bonsai. Did you know? Its thick roots store water.

Growing details and history

Origin: Southern China, Southeast Asia and northern Australia.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as an indoor bonsai.
History: Became popular in Europe in the 1990s.
On cold nights: Keep above 10°C.
Plant type: Bonsai
Sunlight: Bright light or gentle morning sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: Kept small by pruning – usually 1–2 ft
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹₹ Premium (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Check the soil daily in summer; trim new shoots back to two leaves.
Potting mix: Fast-draining bonsai mix: 40% coarse sand or grit, 30% garden soil, 30% compost. Natural add-on: a pinch of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes, sparingly: about 20–30% sieved compost in a fast-draining bonsai mix, and a thin top-dressing in spring.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: PumpkinSky · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Ficus Panda Bonsai Beginner pick

Ficus microcarpa

Forgiving bonsai for a bright window.

Why it is a great choice: A forgiving bonsai for beginners who want quick results. Did you know? It forms aerial roots that can be trained into dramatic shapes.

Growing details and history

Origin: Southern China, Southeast Asia and northern Australia.
Where it grows today: Grown as a bonsai worldwide.
History: A classic beginner bonsai in Asia and Europe.
On cold nights: Keep above 10°C; protect from cold drafts.
Plant type: Bonsai
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: Kept small by pruning – usually 1–2 ft
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹₹ Premium (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Check the soil daily in summer; trim new shoots back to two leaves.
Potting mix: Fast-draining bonsai mix: 40% coarse sand or grit, 30% garden soil, 30% compost. Natural add-on: a pinch of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes, sparingly: about 20–30% sieved compost in a fast-draining bonsai mix, and a thin top-dressing in spring.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Аимаина хикари · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Fukien Tea Bonsai (Carmona)

Ehretia microphylla

Tiny white flowers; needs steady care.

Why it is a great choice: Tiny white flowers and red berries on a miniature tree. Did you know? Its tiny leaves have white dots on their surface.

Growing details and history

Origin: Southern China and Southeast Asia.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a bonsai.
History: A traditional bonsai in China and Taiwan.
On cold nights: Keep above 12°C.
Plant type: Bonsai
Sunlight: Bright light, no harsh sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Tropical regions; Humid regions; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: Kept small by pruning – usually 1–2 ft
Care difficulty: Advanced – for experienced growers
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹₹ Premium (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Check the soil daily in summer; trim new shoots back to two leaves.
Potting mix: Fast-draining bonsai mix: 40% coarse sand or grit, 30% garden soil, 30% compost. Natural add-on: a pinch of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes, sparingly: about 20–30% sieved compost in a fast-draining bonsai mix, and a thin top-dressing in spring.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Forest and Kim Starr · CC BY 3.0 us · Wikimedia Commons

Ming Aralia Bonsai

Polyscias fruticosa

Feathery leaf bonsai; hates cold drafts.

Why it is a great choice: Delicate foliage for an elegant bonsai. Did you know? Its finely divided leaves look like parsley.

Growing details and history

Origin: Polynesia and the Pacific islands.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as an indoor bonsai.
History: Used in Pacific islands as a hedge and medicine.
On cold nights: Keep above 15°C.
Plant type: Bonsai
Sunlight: Bright light, no harsh sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Tropical regions; Humid regions; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: Kept small by pruning – usually 1–2 ft
Care difficulty: Advanced – for experienced growers
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹₹ Premium (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Check the soil daily in summer; trim new shoots back to two leaves.
Potting mix: Fast-draining bonsai mix: 40% coarse sand or grit, 30% garden soil, 30% compost. Natural add-on: a pinch of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes, sparingly: about 20–30% sieved compost in a fast-draining bonsai mix, and a thin top-dressing in spring.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Myrmux · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Money Tree (Pachira) Beginner pick

Pachira aquatica

Braided-trunk lucky tree for tables.

Why it is a great choice: A lucky, easy table plant. Did you know? Its trunks are braided together when young.

Growing details and history

Origin: Central and South America.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: Braided "money trees" became popular in Taiwan in the 1980s.
On cold nights: Keep above 12°C.
Plant type: Bonsai
Sunlight: Bright light or gentle morning sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: Kept small by pruning – usually 1–2 ft
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Check the soil daily in summer; trim new shoots back to two leaves.
Potting mix: Fast-draining bonsai mix: 40% coarse sand or grit, 30% garden soil, 30% compost. Natural add-on: a pinch of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes, sparingly: about 20–30% sieved compost in a fast-draining bonsai mix, and a thin top-dressing in spring.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Mokkie · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Pomegranate Bonsai Beginner pick

Punica granatum

Flowers and tiny fruit on a miniature tree.

Why it is a great choice: Flowers and tiny fruit on a miniature tree. Did you know? It can produce tiny pomegranates on a tree just a few centimetres tall.

Growing details and history

Origin: Iran and the region south of the Caspian Sea.
Where it grows today: Grown as a bonsai worldwide.
History: A classic flowering bonsai in Japanese and Chinese gardens.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights well.
Plant type: Bonsai
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Highlands
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: Kept small by pruning – usually 1–2 ft
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹₹ Premium (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Check the soil daily in summer; trim new shoots back to two leaves.
Potting mix: Fast-draining bonsai mix: 40% coarse sand or grit, 30% garden soil, 30% compost. Natural add-on: a pinch of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes, sparingly: about 20–30% sieved compost in a fast-draining bonsai mix, and a thin top-dressing in spring.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Shuvaev · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Ponytail Palm Beginner pick

Beaucarnea recurvata

Swollen trunk stores water; ideal for forgetful waterers.

Why it is a great choice: Ideal for people who forget to water. Did you know? Its swollen base stores water for months.

Growing details and history

Origin: Eastern Mexico.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant.
History: Not a true palm – it belongs to the asparagus family.
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; protect from frost.
Plant type: Bonsai
Sunlight: 4–6 hours of sun (morning sun is best)
Watering: When the top 5 cm is dry – about weekly (twice in peak summer)
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: Kept small by pruning – usually 1–2 ft
Care difficulty: Easy
Child & pet safety: Safe around children & pets
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Check the soil daily in summer; trim new shoots back to two leaves.
Potting mix: Gritty succulent mix: 30% garden soil, 40% coarse sand, 20% brick pieces or perlite, 10% compost. Natural add-on: nothing else – rich soil rots succulents.
Homemade compost: Yes, a little: at most 10% sieved, mature compost in a gritty mix. Too much keeps the soil wet and rots succulents.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Forest & Kim Starr · CC BY 3.0 us · Wikimedia Commons

Snow Rose Bonsai (Serissa)

Serissa japonica

Delicate flowering bonsai for experienced growers.

Why it is a great choice: A delicate flowering bonsai for experienced growers. Did you know? Its tiny white flowers cover the tree like snow.

Growing details and history

Origin: Southeast China, Taiwan and Japan.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a bonsai.
History: A traditional Japanese bonsai, known as "tree of a thousand stars".
On cold nights: Tolerates cool nights; dislikes sudden changes.
Plant type: Bonsai
Sunlight: Bright light, no harsh sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Humid regions; Coastal regions; Highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: Kept small by pruning – usually 1–2 ft
Care difficulty: Advanced – for experienced growers
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹₹ Premium (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Check the soil daily in summer; trim new shoots back to two leaves.
Potting mix: Fast-draining bonsai mix: 40% coarse sand or grit, 30% garden soil, 30% compost. Natural add-on: a pinch of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes, sparingly: about 20–30% sieved compost in a fast-draining bonsai mix, and a thin top-dressing in spring.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Daniel J. Layton · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Tamarind Bonsai

Tamarindus indica

Fine leaves make an excellent tropical bonsai.

Why it is a great choice: Fine foliage and natural trunk character for a stunning bonsai. Did you know? Its tiny leaflets fold up at night.

Growing details and history

Origin: Tropical Africa.
Where it grows today: Popular as a bonsai in tropical countries.
History: Valued by bonsai artists for its fine leaves.
On cold nights: Keep above 10°C.
Plant type: Bonsai
Sunlight: 6+ hours of direct sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: Hot summers and cold winters; Hot, dry regions; Tropical regions; Humid regions; Very high rainfall; Coastal regions
Where it grows: Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: Kept small by pruning – usually 1–2 ft
Care difficulty: Advanced – for experienced growers
Child & pet safety: Generally safe – don’t let pets chew it
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹₹ Premium (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Check the soil daily in summer; trim new shoots back to two leaves.
Potting mix: Fast-draining bonsai mix: 40% coarse sand or grit, 30% garden soil, 30% compost. Natural add-on: a pinch of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes, sparingly: about 20–30% sieved compost in a fast-draining bonsai mix, and a thin top-dressing in spring.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Ebyabe · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Weeping Fig Bonsai (Ficus benjamina)

Ficus benjamina

Weeping fig bonsai; keep it in one place.

Why it is a great choice: An elegant weeping bonsai for bright indoor spots. Did you know? It drops leaves if moved – so choose its spot and leave it there.

Growing details and history

Origin: South and Southeast Asia and northern Australia.
Where it grows today: Grown worldwide as a houseplant and bonsai.
History: The official tree of Bangkok.
On cold nights: Keep above 12°C.
Plant type: Bonsai
Sunlight: Bright light, no harsh sun
Watering: Every 2–3 days in summer, weekly in winter
Suitable climate: All climates, including highlands
Where it grows: Indoors, Balcony, Terrace
Pot or space needed: A 15–20 cm (6–8 inch) pot, about 2–5 litres.
Mature size: Kept small by pruning – usually 1–2 ft
Care difficulty: Moderate – regular feeding & pruning
Child & pet safety: Mildly toxic or irritant if chewed – keep out of reach
Best season: All year · best planted Jun–Aug or Oct–Nov
Typical price: ₹₹ Mid-range (varies with plant size)
Care tip: Check the soil daily in summer; trim new shoots back to two leaves.
Potting mix: Fast-draining bonsai mix: 40% coarse sand or grit, 30% garden soil, 30% compost. Natural add-on: a pinch of neem cake.
Homemade compost: Yes, sparingly: about 20–30% sieved compost in a fast-draining bonsai mix, and a thin top-dressing in spring.
Watch for: Mealybugs, Scale insects, Spider mites

Photo: Photo: Tom Kehoe · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Grow with less waste

Turn Kitchen Waste into Plant Food

Peels, scraps, tea leaves and dry leaves can become rich compost for your plants – and keep a large share of your home’s waste out of the dustbin.

1. Collect scraps
2. Chop small
3. Add browns on top
4. Mix & keep moist
5. Rest & mature
6. Finished compost

What can go in? Everyday kitchen waste

🥕

Vegetable and fruit peelsYes – the main ingredient. Chop big pieces.

🥬

Leftover raw vegetable scrapsYes – stems, outer leaves, cores, spoiled raw vegetables.

🍵

Tea leaves and coffee groundsYes – squeeze dry first. Many tea bags contain plastic: tear them open and add only the leaves.

🥚

Crushed eggshellsYes – crush finely; they break down slowly and add calcium. (Rinse first.)

🍂

Dry leaves and garden wasteYes – your main “brown” material. Avoid diseased plants and weeds that have set seed.

🌸

Used flower offerings and garlandsYes – remove threads, plastic, foil and wire first.

How much compost can your home make?

Illustrative estimates for families who cook at home every day. Households that often eat out produce about half as much.

Household	Compostable kitchen waste a day	Per month	Finished compost a month	All household waste a day (for comparison)
1 person	150 g – 250 g	5 – 8 kg	1 – 2 kg	0.5 – 0.7 kg
2 people	300 g – 500 g	9 – 15 kg	2 – 5 kg	0.9 – 1.3 kg
3 people	450 g – 750 g	13 – 23 kg	3 – 7 kg	1.4 – 2.0 kg
4 people	600 g – 1 kg	18 – 30 kg	4 – 9 kg	1.8 – 2.6 kg
5 people	750 g – 1.3 kg	23 – 38 kg	5 – 11 kg	2.3 – 3.3 kg
6 people	900 g – 1.5 kg	27 – 45 kg	5 – 14 kg	2.7 – 3.9 kg
7 people	1.1 kg – 1.8 kg	32 – 53 kg	6 – 16 kg	3.1 – 4.5 kg
8 people	1.2 kg – 2 kg	36 – 60 kg	7 – 18 kg	3.6 – 5.2 kg

Illustrative estimate – not a measurement. Assumptions: each person produces about 150–250 g of compostable raw kitchen scraps a day when cooking at home (peels, scraps, tea leaves, eggshells), reduced to 80% or 50% for households that cook less. Total household waste uses Indian planning figures for metro cities (CPHEEO): about 0.45–0.65 kg per person per day, of which 50–60% is biodegradable. Finished compost is taken as 20–30% of the fresh weight, because most of the water evaporates. Your real numbers depend on your diet, season and habits – weigh one week’s scraps to know yours.

Keep these out of an ordinary home compost bin

✕ Meat, fish, bones, eggs (other than shells)Smell and attract rats, dogs and flies in an ordinary home bin.

✕ Dairy – milk, curd, paneer, gheeTurn sour and smelly; attract pests.

✕ Oily or fried food, gravies, picklesOil coats the material and slows composting; salt harms soil life.

✕ Large amounts of cooked food (rice, dal, roti)Ferments, smells and attracts pests in a normal aerobic bin.

✕ Pet droppings, used diapers, sanitary wasteCan carry disease – never use in compost for food plants.

✕ Plastic, “biodegradable” bags, glossy or coloured paper, foil, cigarette endsDo not break down at home or add harmful residues.

✕ Coal or charcoal ash, chemically treated wood or sawdustMay contain harmful residues.

✕ Diseased plants and weeds with seedsA home bin rarely gets hot enough to kill them.

Exception: Bokashi fermentation (see “Small-apartment composting”) is designed to take small amounts of cooked food and dairy, and a large, well-managed hot pile can handle more – but meat and fish are still best kept out of home bins in cities because they attract rats and dogs.

The secret: greens + browns

Compost needs a mix of wet “greens” (rich in nitrogen) and dry “browns” (rich in carbon). Kitchen scraps alone turn into a smelly, wet mess; with enough browns they turn into earthy compost.

🟢 Greens

Vegetable and fruit peels and scraps
Tea leaves and coffee grounds
Fresh garden trimmings and green leaves
Used flower offerings and garlands (threads removed)
Aged cow dung

🟤 Browns

Dry fallen leaves (best and free)
Shredded plain cardboard and egg cartons (no glossy coating)
Cocopeat or coir
Sawdust from untreated wood
Dry straw or dried plant stalks
Newspaper in small amounts (shredded)

Rule of thumb: about 1 part greens to 2–3 parts browns by volume. If it smells, add browns; if nothing happens, add greens and water.

Moisture: Like a wrung-out sponge – a squeezed handful gives only a drop or two.
Air: Mix or turn once a week; make sure the bin has air holes.
Drainage: Holes in the bottom and a tray underneath; never let water stand.
Smells: Cover every addition with browns; never leave scraps exposed.
Pests: Lid on, no cooked food, meat or dairy; mesh over large holes.
Time: Usually 2–3 months in warm weather (faster in hot summers, slower in winter), plus a few weeks of resting.

Plants that benefit from your compost

Every plant likes some compost, but these hungry growers show the biggest difference:

🌱TomatoLoves compost 🌱EggplantLoves compost 🌱Green ChilliLoves compost 🌱OkraLoves compost 🌱Bottle GourdLoves compost 🌱SpinachLoves compost 🌱Amaranth GreensLoves compost 🌱BananaLoves compost 🌱China RoseLoves compost 🌱Chinese HibiscusLoves compost 🌱Curry LeafLoves compost 🌱Holy BasilLoves compost

How much compost to use →

Pick the method that fits your home. All of them work in warm climates – the differences are space, effort and speed.

🪣Bucket or container (two-bucket method)1–3 people · balcony, utility area or kitchen corner 🏠Terrace composting (tiered terracotta composter or drum)3–6 people · independent houses and terrace gardeners 🏢Small-apartment composting (no garden)Flats without a balcony garden · 1–4 people 🗑️Using a ready-made compost binAnyone who prefers a ready system · 2–6 people 🪱Vermicomposting with earthwormsPeople who want very rich compost · shaded balcony, utility area or garden ⛰️Compost pile or pit (garden space)Independent houses with a garden or farm · large households

🪣Bucket or container (two-bucket method)1–3 people · balcony, utility area or kitchen corner · Easy

✅ Established guidance

Time: About 2–3 months from first scraps to usable compost

You need

Two 20–25 litre buckets with lids – food-grade plastic or old paint-free buckets (never chemical or pesticide containers)
A drill or a nail heated over a flame (adult only) to make holes
Brown material: dry leaves, cocopeat or shredded plain cardboard
Two bricks and a tray or old plate to catch liquid
A small trowel or old spoon

Step by step

Make 10–12 holes (about 5 mm) in the bottom and 10 more around the upper half of each bucket for air.
Stand the bucket on two bricks over a tray to catch any liquid.
Put 5 cm of dry leaves or cocopeat in the bottom.
Each day add your chopped scraps and cover them completely with a layer of browns – roughly twice the volume of the scraps.
Stir with the trowel every 3–4 days and keep the lid on.
When the first bucket is full (usually 4–6 weeks), close it and let it rest for 4–6 weeks. Start filling the second bucket.
When the rested bucket looks dark and crumbly and smells earthy, sieve it and use it.

Looking after it: Squeeze-test every few days: a handful should feel like a wrung-out sponge. Too wet → add browns; too dry → sprinkle water.

Good to know: Liquid that drips into the tray can be diluted about 1:10 with water and poured on soil (not on leaves). If it smells bad, pour it on the compost’s browns instead.

🏠Terrace composting (tiered terracotta composter or drum)3–6 people · independent houses and terrace gardeners · Easy

✅ Established guidance

Time: About 2–3 months; faster in warm months

You need

A 3-tier terracotta composter – or a 100–200 litre plastic drum with a lid
Bricks to raise it, a mesh or lid to keep out rain, rats and birds
Dry leaves (terraces often have plenty), cocopeat or shredded cardboard
Optional: a handful of finished compost or cow dung to “start” it

Step by step

Place it in shade or semi-shade, raised on bricks, where rain cannot flood it. In peak summer heat, a sunny spot dries it out in days.
For a drum: make 20–30 holes around the sides and a few in the bottom.
Start with 10 cm of dry leaves, then a handful of old compost or soil.
Add scraps daily in the top tier/drum and cover each layer with dry leaves.
Mix every week. When the top tier is full, move it down and start a new top tier, or keep the drum closed and start a second one.
Harvest from the bottom tier when it is dark, crumbly and earthy.

Looking after it: In summer, sprinkle water every few days. In the monsoon, keep it covered and add extra browns – it gets soggy quickly.

Good to know: Terracotta “breathes” and stays cooler; plastic drums hold more but need more holes and shade.

🏢Small-apartment composting (no garden)Flats without a balcony garden · 1–4 people · Easy

🔄 Context-dependent

Time: About 2–3 months (bokashi: 2 weeks to ferment, then 2–4 weeks in soil)

You need

One small bin (10–20 litres) with a tight lid and air holes, kept on a balcony or utility area
A bag of cocopeat or sawdust from untreated wood as your “dusting” brown
Optional for bokashi: an airtight bokashi bucket with tap and bokashi bran (sold online and at some nurseries)

Step by step

Keep a small covered container in the kitchen; empty it into the bin once a day.
Every time you add scraps, cover them fully with 2–3 handfuls of cocopeat or sawdust – this stops smells and flies.
Stir every 3–4 days.
When the bin is full, close it for 4–6 weeks to finish, or hand it to a community compost point or a friend with a garden.
Bokashi option: pack scraps tightly in the airtight bucket, sprinkle bran on each layer, drain the liquid every few days. After 2 weeks the fermented scraps must be buried in soil or added to a compost bin to finish – bokashi alone does not make finished compost.

Looking after it: The secret in a flat is plenty of dry dusting material and a lid that closes properly.

Good to know: Bokashi is designed to handle small amounts of cooked food and dairy because it ferments without air – ordinary aerobic bins are not.

🗑️Using a ready-made compost binAnyone who prefers a ready system · 2–6 people · Easy

✅ Established guidance

Time: About 6–10 weeks (tumblers) to 2–3 months (stacked bins)

You need

A stacked 2–3 tier home composter or a rotating tumbler
The starter or “accelerator” powder that comes with it (optional)
Brown material: cocopeat, dry leaves or shredded cardboard

Step by step

Read the maker’s instructions – hole sizes and layer orders differ.
Start with a layer of browns, then add scraps daily and cover with browns.
Tumblers: turn the drum 4–5 times every 2–3 days. Stacked bins: mix the top tier weekly and rotate tiers when full.
Do not fill a tumbler more than about three-quarters – it needs room to tumble.
Let the final batch rest without adding anything for 2–4 weeks before using.

Looking after it: Accelerators can speed things up a little; browns, moisture and air matter much more.

Good to know: Avoid bins without enough air holes – they turn smelly and slimy.

🪱Vermicomposting with earthwormsPeople who want very rich compost · shaded balcony, utility area or garden · Moderate

✅ Established guidance

Time: About 2–3 months for the first harvest

You need

A shallow bin 40–60 litres, 20–30 cm deep, with holes in the sides and bottom and a lid
Composting worms: 250–500 g of red wigglers (Eisenia fetida) or African nightcrawlers (Eudrilus eugeniae) – from a nursery, agricultural centre or online. Ordinary garden earthworms do not do well in bins.
Bedding: moist shredded cardboard, coir or dry leaves, plus a little soil or aged cow dung
A tray under the bin

Step by step

Fill the bin one-third with moist bedding (wet like a wrung-out sponge).
Add the worms on top; they will burrow in within minutes in dim light.
Wait 2–3 days, then start feeding small amounts of finely chopped scraps buried under the bedding. Start with about half the worms’ weight per day and increase as they multiply.
Avoid large amounts of citrus peel, onion, garlic, chilli, oily, salty or cooked food – worms dislike them.
Keep the bin in shade at about 15–30°C. In hot summers keep it indoors or in deep shade; direct sun kills worms within hours.
After 2–3 months, push the finished material to one side and add fresh bedding and food to the other – worms move over in 1–2 weeks and you can harvest the finished side.

Looking after it: Check moisture twice a week. Worms escaping or bunching at the lid means it is too wet, too hot or too acidic – add dry bedding and move to a cooler spot.

Good to know: Vermicompost is rich – use 10–20% in potting mix or as a thin top-dressing.

⛰️Compost pile or pit (garden space)Independent houses with a garden or farm · large households · Moderate

✅ Established guidance

Time: About 2–4 months with regular turning; 6 months or more if left alone

You need

A shaded corner about 1 × 1 m (or a three-bay bin from old bricks, pallets or mesh)
Plenty of dry leaves, straw or crop waste
A garden fork, water hose or bucket
Optional: cow dung or old compost to start

Step by step

Start with 15 cm of coarse browns (twigs, stalks) at the bottom for air.
Add layers: 10 cm greens, then 15–20 cm browns. Sprinkle water on each layer.
Build to about 1 m high – a pile this size heats up well.
Turn the pile every 1–2 weeks: move the outside to the middle. A well-built pile gets hot (50–65°C) in the first weeks; that is normal and kills many weed seeds.
Pit option: dig a pit up to 1 m deep in a raised, well-drained spot, layer the same way and cover with a little soil. Pits are slower and can waterlog in the monsoon.
When it no longer heats up and looks dark and crumbly, let it rest 3–4 weeks before using.

Looking after it: Cover the pile with old sacks or palm leaves in summer (dries out) and in heavy rain (gets soggy).

Good to know: Keep piles away from walls and the neighbour’s boundary; they attract termites in dry corners if left untouched.

1. Collect scraps
2. Chop small
3. Add browns on top
4. Mix & keep moist
5. Rest & mature
6. Finished compost

Track my compost →Fix compost problems

Is my compost ready?

Dark brown and crumbly, like rich soil
Smells earthy – not sour, rotten or of ammonia
You can no longer recognise the peels and scraps (eggshell bits and twigs are fine)
It has cooled down – no longer warm in the middle
Simple test: sow 10 fenugreek or mustard seeds in a cup of half compost, half soil. If most sprout and grow normally in a week, it is mature.

Not ready yet? Unfinished compost can “steal” nitrogen from plants and harm seedlings. Let it rest another 2–4 weeks. Sieve out big pieces and put them back in the bin.

How much to use

Where	How much	How often
Seed-starting mix	Only well-matured, sieved compost – at most 20–25% of the mix, the rest cocopeat or sieved soil. Unfinished compost can stop seeds sprouting.	At sowing
Potting mix for vegetables	20–30% compost by volume (for example 4 parts soil, 3 parts compost, 3 parts cocopeat).	When filling pots
Potting mix for flowers and herbs	20–30% compost by volume.	When filling pots
Succulents and cacti	No more than 10% compost; they need a gritty, fast-draining mix.	When repotting
Orchids and water plants	Do not use loose compost: it suffocates orchid roots and dirties pond water.	—
Top-dressing existing pots	A 1–2 cm layer (1–2 handfuls for a 12-inch pot), mixed lightly into the top soil and watered in.	Every 4–6 weeks in the growing season (Feb–Oct); less in winter
Vegetable beds in the ground	2–5 kg per square metre (a 2–5 cm layer) dug into the top 15 cm before planting; a handful per plant as a side-dressing during the season.	Before each crop; side-dress monthly
Trees and large shrubs	5–10 kg spread in a ring under the outer edge of the leaves, then watered in.	2–3 times a year (Feb, Jun, Oct)

Every plant page in this app also shows how to use homemade compost for that particular plant.

Browse plants →

What compost does – and does not do

✅ Established guidance Improves soil structure: sandy soil holds more water, heavy clay drains and breathes better.
✅ Established guidance Helps soil hold moisture, so pots dry out a little more slowly.
✅ Established guidance Feeds soil life and releases nutrients slowly.
🔄 Context-dependent Nutrient levels vary a lot from batch to batch and are usually modest. Heavy feeders like tomato, chilli, eggplant and gourds often need extra feeding (vermicompost, cakes or a balanced fertiliser) when they flower and fruit.

Honest note: Compost is a soil improver first and a fertiliser second. It does not guarantee growth – light, water and the right plant for the place matter just as much.

Troubleshooting

Rotten-egg or sewage smell

Why: Too wet, not enough air

Fix: Add plenty of dry browns, mix well, open more air holes and leave the lid ajar for a day.

Ammonia (sharp, urine-like) smell

Why: Too many greens

Fix: Add browns (about twice the volume of scraps) and mix.

Slimy, soggy and dripping

Why: Too wet; poor drainage; monsoon rain

Fix: Add dry browns, check the drainage holes, cover from rain.

Dry, dusty and nothing is happening

Why: Too dry or too many browns

Fix: Sprinkle water while mixing until it feels like a wrung-out sponge; add fresh scraps.

Very slow – months with little change

Why: Big pieces, too small a heap, cold weather or too dry

Fix: Chop scraps small, keep it moist, mix weekly; it speeds up in warm months.

Fruit flies

Why: Exposed scraps

Fix: Always bury scraps under browns, keep the lid closed, and set a small trap: a cup of vinegar with a drop of soap.

Wriggling larvae (maggots)

Why: Usually black soldier fly larvae – harmless and actually good composters

Fix: Cover scraps with browns. If they are house-fly maggots (small, white, near smelly food), remove cooked food and add browns.

Ants

Why: The compost is too dry

Fix: Add water and mix; ants leave when it is moist.

Rats, cockroaches or stray animals

Why: Cooked food, meat or an open bin

Fix: Stop adding cooked food, use a closed bin with mesh-covered holes, raise it on bricks.

White fluffy fungus

Why: Normal – fungi are breaking down the browns

Fix: Nothing to fix; mix it in.

Seeds sprouting in the compost

Why: Tomato, chilli or papaya seeds survived

Fix: Pull them out, or enjoy free seedlings. Hot piles kill more seeds.

Worms escaping a vermicompost bin

Why: Too wet, too hot, too acidic or new bin

Fix: Add dry bedding, move to a cooler shaded place, reduce citrus and onion; keep a light on near the bin for the first night.

Healthy plants, safe homes

Protect Your Plants with Household Solutions

Prevent and manage common pests and diseases with simple, low-cost steps – and know which home remedies really help, which are traditional, and which are myths.

The safe step-by-step approach (Integrated Pest Management)

Start with the gentlest, lowest-risk step and only move up if the problem continues. Most home-garden problems never need a chemical spray.

🔎
1. Prevent and inspectGrow the right plant in the right light; space plants for air; water the soil in the morning; check leaves, undersides and stems once a week; keep new plants apart for 2 weeks.
🧐
2. Identify the problem correctlyUse the symptom guide or the problem assistant – treating the wrong problem wastes time and can harm the plant.
✂️
3. Remove by handPick off pests, prune badly affected leaves and shoots, and bin (not compost) diseased material.
💦
4. Wash, trap and blockWash pests off with water; use sticky traps and fruit-fly traps; cover crops with insect net; ring pots against snails.
🌿
5. Gentle treatmentsSoap or neem sprays at the stated dilution, after a small patch test, in the evening, away from open flowers.
🏷️
6. A labelled product – only if neededChoose one labelled for that pest and plant, follow the label exactly, wear gloves, respect the waiting period before harvest, and store it locked away.

Home remedies are not automatically safe

They can burn leaves, especially in sun and heat or at strong dilutions.
They can harm helpful insects – bees, ladybirds and spiders.
Chilli, soap and oil mixtures can irritate skin and eyes; keep them away from children and pets.
Never store home-made sprays in drink bottles; label them and use them the same day.
Wash all produce before eating.

How we label advice

✅ Established guidanceWidely supported by horticultural research and extension services.

🔄 Context-dependentWorks in some situations – depends on the plant, pest, weather or dose.

🪔 Traditional practiceLong used in traditional gardening; limited scientific testing.

❔ Limited / anecdotalMostly personal reports; little reliable evidence it works.

⛔ Not recommendedEvidence and experience suggest it can harm plants, soil, people or pets.

Identify a problem →Use the problem assistant

Tap a problem to see how to recognise it, what it is often confused with and what to do, in order of safety.

🐜Aphids

What you see: Tiny (1–3 mm) green, black or yellow insects crowded on new tips, buds and under young leaves. Leaves curl; sticky honeydew; ants running up and down.
Often confused with: Thrips (too small to see clearly, silver streaks) or whitefly (flies up when disturbed).

What to do – gentlest first

Squash small groups by hand or wash them off with water.
Cut off badly curled tips.
Spray soap solution or neem every 5–7 days for 2–3 weeks.
Ladybirds and their larvae eat aphids – avoid spraying when you see them.

Helpful remedies

💦 Strong spray of plain water ✅ Established guidance 🧴 Mild soap solution (insecticidal soap) 🔄 Context-dependent 🌿 Neem oil spray ✅ Established guidance 🟨 Yellow and blue sticky traps ✅ Established guidance

Plants where this is common

🌱Chinese HibiscusCare guide 🌱BougainvilleaCare guide 🌱OleanderCare guide 🌱Yellow OleanderCare guide 🌱Yellow BellsCare guide 🌱Crown of ThornsCare guide 🌱CrossandraCare guide 🌱Madagascar PeriwinkleCare guide

🐛Mealybugs

What you see: White, cottony or waxy clumps on stems, leaf joints and undersides; plants weaken and leaves yellow; sticky leaves.
Often confused with: Powdery mildew (flat white powder, no insects) or scale (hard bumps).

What to do – gentlest first

Isolate the plant.
Wipe clumps off with cotton dipped in soapy water or neem.
Prune heavily infested shoots.
Spray neem or soap solution every 5 days until no new clumps appear.

Helpful remedies

🤏 Hand-picking and pruning ✅ Established guidance 🧴 Mild soap solution (insecticidal soap) 🔄 Context-dependent 🌿 Neem oil spray ✅ Established guidance

Plants where this is common

🌱Chinese HibiscusCare guide 🌱BougainvilleaCare guide 🌱Golden DurantaCare guide 🌱OleanderCare guide 🌱Yellow OleanderCare guide 🌱Yellow BellsCare guide 🌱AcalyphaCare guide 🌱Devil's BackboneCare guide

🦟Whiteflies

What you see: Clouds of tiny white flies rise when you shake the plant; scale-like nymphs under leaves; leaves yellow and sticky.
Often confused with: Mealybugs (do not fly).

What to do – gentlest first

Hang yellow sticky traps.
Spray the undersides of leaves with water, then neem every 5 days.
Remove the most infested lower leaves.

Helpful remedies

🟨 Yellow and blue sticky traps ✅ Established guidance 🌿 Neem oil spray ✅ Established guidance 🧴 Mild soap solution (insecticidal soap) 🔄 Context-dependent 💦 Strong spray of plain water ✅ Established guidance

Plants where this is common

🌱TomatoCare guide 🌱Green ChilliCare guide 🌱EggplantCare guide 🌱OkraCare guide 🌱Cherry TomatoCare guide

🕷️Spider mites

What you see: Leaves look finely speckled, pale or bronzed; fine webbing under leaves and at tips; worse in hot, dry weather.
Often confused with: Nutrient deficiency (no speckling or webbing). Tap a leaf over white paper – moving dots are mites.

What to do – gentlest first

Spray the undersides of leaves with water every morning for a week – mites hate humidity.
Remove badly bronzed leaves.
Spray neem or soap every 5 days.
Keep the plant out of hot, dry wind.

Helpful remedies

💦 Strong spray of plain water ✅ Established guidance 🧴 Mild soap solution (insecticidal soap) 🔄 Context-dependent 🌿 Neem oil spray ✅ Established guidance

Plants where this is common

🟤Scale insects

What you see: Small brown, grey or white bumps stuck to stems and leaf veins that do not move; sticky leaves and black sooty mould.
Often confused with: Natural bark texture – scale scrapes off with a fingernail.

What to do – gentlest first

Scrape off with a soft toothbrush dipped in soapy water.
Prune badly covered twigs.
Spray neem or a horticultural oil labelled for scale to catch the young crawlers.

Helpful remedies

🤏 Hand-picking and pruning ✅ Established guidance 🌿 Neem oil spray ✅ Established guidance

Plants where this is common

🌱Devil's BackboneCare guide 🌱Lipstick TreeCare guide 🌱Orchid TreeCare guide 🌱Golden Shower TreeCare guide 🌱Pink Shower TreeCare guide 🌱Royal PoincianaCare guide 🌱JacarandaCare guide 🌱Queen's Crape MyrtleCare guide

🌀Thrips

What you see: Leaves curl upward, are distorted with silvery streaks and black specks; flowers spotted – the main cause of chilli “leaf curl”.
Often confused with: Virus (mosaic patterns) or herbicide damage.

What to do – gentlest first

Hang blue or yellow sticky traps.
Remove badly curled tips.
Spray neem every 5 days, including under the leaves and into the growing tips.

Helpful remedies

🟨 Yellow and blue sticky traps ✅ Established guidance 🌿 Neem oil spray ✅ Established guidance 🧴 Mild soap solution (insecticidal soap) 🔄 Context-dependent

Plants where this is common

🌱Green ChilliCare guide 🌱Spring OnionCare guide 🌱TuberoseCare guide 🌱Garlic GreensCare guide 🌱Bell PepperCare guide 🌱OnionCare guide

🐛Caterpillars

What you see: Holes and chewed edges on leaves or fruit; small dark droppings below.
Often confused with: Snails (slime trails, holes appear overnight).

What to do – gentlest first

Hand-pick in the morning and evening.
Check under leaves for egg clusters and remove them.
A Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) spray from a nursery targets caterpillars and is low-risk for people.

Helpful remedies

🤏 Hand-picking and pruning ✅ Established guidance 🌶️ Chilli (and garlic) spray ❔ Limited / anecdotal

Plants where this is common

🌱Spider LilyCare guide 🌱Amaranth GreensCare guide 🌱Lipstick TreeCare guide 🌱Orchid TreeCare guide 🌱Golden Shower TreeCare guide 🌱Pink Shower TreeCare guide 🌱Royal PoincianaCare guide 🌱JacarandaCare guide

🐌Snails and slugs

What you see: Large ragged holes appearing overnight, shiny slime trails, especially in the monsoon.
Often confused with: Caterpillars (droppings, no slime).

What to do – gentlest first

Hand-pick at dusk with a torch.
Set beer or jaggery-yeast traps.
Remove hiding places (old pots, wet debris).

Helpful remedies

🤏 Hand-picking and pruning ✅ Established guidance 🥣 Beer or jaggery-yeast snail trap 🔄 Context-dependent 🔥 Wood ash 🪔 Traditional practice

Plants where this is common

🌱Spider LilyCare guide 🌱Sacred LotusCare guide 🌱Blue Star Water LilyCare guide 🌱Leaf LettuceCare guide 🌱Indian PennywortCare guide 🌱PansyCare guide 🌱Rain LilyCare guide 🌱Malabar SpinachCare guide

〰️Leaf miners

What you see: Wavy white or silver tunnels inside the leaf.
Often confused with: Nothing else looks like this.

What to do – gentlest first

Pick and destroy mined leaves.
Yellow sticky traps catch the adult flies.
Neem spray every 7 days if it spreads.

Helpful remedies

🤏 Hand-picking and pruning ✅ Established guidance 🟨 Yellow and blue sticky traps ✅ Established guidance 🌿 Neem oil spray ✅ Established guidance

Plants where this is common

🌱Amaranth GreensCare guide 🌱SpinachCare guide 🌱Green SorrelCare guide

🪰Fruit flies in fruit

What you see: Small sting marks on fruit that then rot with maggots inside (gourds, guava, mango).
Often confused with: Fruit rot (no maggots).

What to do – gentlest first

Pick fruit young.
Bag young fruit with paper bags.
Hang a lure trap; destroy fallen fruit daily.

Helpful remedies

🎯 Fruit-fly trap and fruit bags ✅ Established guidance

Plants where this is common

🌱TamarindCare guide 🌱Date PalmCare guide 🌱Bael TreeCare guide 🌱Custard AppleCare guide 🌱Wood AppleCare guide 🌱Indian GooseberryCare guide 🌱GuavaCare guide 🌱PomegranateCare guide

⚪Powdery mildew

What you see: White, flour-like patches on leaves that rub off; common on gourds, roses and in cool, humid weather.
Often confused with: Mealybugs (insects, cottony) or dust.

What to do – gentlest first

Remove the worst leaves.
Water the soil in the morning, never the leaves.
Give more space and sun.
Spray diluted buttermilk or baking soda weekly early on; a labelled fungicide for bad cases.

Helpful remedies

🥛 Diluted sour buttermilk or milk 🔄 Context-dependent 🧂 Baking soda spray 🔄 Context-dependent 🌿 Neem oil spray ✅ Established guidance

Plants where this is common

🌱CorianderCare guide 🌱Sweet BasilCare guide 🌱Fenugreek GreensCare guide 🌱CalendulaCare guide 🌱ZinniaCare guide 🌱Bitter GourdCare guide 🌱Ridge GourdCare guide 🌱Bottle GourdCare guide

🟫Fungal leaf spots / blight

What you see: Brown or black spots, often with a yellow ring, starting on lower leaves and spreading upward – common in the monsoon.
Often confused with: Sun scorch (bleached patches on the sunny side) or old-age yellowing.

What to do – gentlest first

Remove spotted leaves and bin them (not compost).
Water at the base in the morning; mulch so soil does not splash.
Improve air flow; space plants.
For spreading blight on tomato, a copper-based fungicide labelled for the crop.

Helpful remedies

🤏 Hand-picking and pruning ✅ Established guidance

Plants where this is common

🌱MintCare guide 🌱TomatoCare guide 🌱Malabar SpinachCare guide 🌱Cherry TomatoCare guide

💧Root or stem rot

What you see: Plant wilts though the soil is wet; stem base soft and dark; roots brown and mushy; sour smell.
Often confused with: Underwatering (soil dry).

What to do – gentlest first

Stop watering and let the pot dry.
Check drainage holes; never leave water in the saucer.
Repot into fresh, free-draining mix, cutting away mushy roots.

Plants where this is common

🌱Aloe VeraCare guide 🌱Money PlantCare guide 🌱Jade PlantCare guide 🌱EcheveriaCare guide 🌱MicrogreensCare guide 🌱Indian BorageCare guide 🌱Betel VineCare guide 🌱Christmas CactusCare guide

🍂Yellowing leaves

What you see: Leaves turning yellow – the cause depends on where and how.

What to do – gentlest first

Old, lower leaves slowly yellowing: often natural ageing or hunger – feed with compost.
New leaves yellow with green veins: likely iron/micronutrient shortage, common with alkaline water or soil – add compost; use a micronutrient feed.
Many leaves yellow and soil wet: overwatering or poor drainage – let it dry, check holes.
Yellow and crispy, soil dry: underwatering or heat – water deeply, give afternoon shade.
Yellow speckles or sticky leaves: check under the leaves for mites, whiteflies or mealybugs.
Yellowing just after moving or repotting: transplant shock – usually recovers in 1–2 weeks.

🌱Seedlings collapsing (damping off)

What you see: Young seedlings fall over with a thin, dark, pinched stem at the soil line.
Often confused with: Cutworms (stems chewed, not pinched).

What to do – gentlest first

Remove fallen seedlings.
Let the surface dry slightly between waterings; water from below.
Give more light and air; do not overcrowd.
Next time use a clean seed mix and well-matured compost only.

Helpful remedies

🟡 Turmeric powder 🪔 Traditional practice

Not sure? Use the problem assistant →

How to read these labels

✅ Established guidanceWidely supported by horticultural research and extension services.

🔄 Context-dependentWorks in some situations – depends on the plant, pest, weather or dose.

🪔 Traditional practiceLong used in traditional gardening; limited scientific testing.

❔ Limited / anecdotalMostly personal reports; little reliable evidence it works.

⛔ Not recommendedEvidence and experience suggest it can harm plants, soil, people or pets.

Deterrence, control or myth?

Deterrence: Makes plants less attractive to pests for a few days (for example chilli or garlic sprays). Useful for prevention – it will not clear an infestation that is already there.
Control: Actually reduces pest numbers when used correctly – hand-picking, a strong water spray, soap or neem sprays, traps.
Myth: Popular advice with no reliable evidence, or that does more harm than good – such as pouring soft drinks, salt or kerosene on plants.

Household and garden remedies

💦Strong spray of plain water
✅ Established guidance

May help with: Aphids, spider mites, whitefly nymphs and dust on leaves – it knocks them off.
Evidence: ✅ Established guidance Widely supported by horticultural research and extension services.

How to prepare and use

Use a hose nozzle or a spray bottle on its strongest setting.
Spray the tips and undersides of leaves in the morning so they dry by noon.
Repeat every 2–3 days for a week.

Dilution / patch test: Not needed.
Not suitable for: Seedlings, delicate flowers and fuzzy-leaved plants such as African violet (use a soft dry brush instead). Avoid evening washing on plants prone to fungus.
Safer or more effective options: Combine with a soap or neem spray if pests return.

🤏Hand-picking and pruning
✅ Established guidance

May help with: Caterpillars, snails, scale insects, mealybug clumps, leaves with leaf-miner tunnels or leaf spots.
Evidence: ✅ Established guidance Widely supported by horticultural research and extension services.

How to prepare and use

Check plants in the early morning or at dusk when caterpillars and snails are active.
Drop pests into a cup of soapy water.
Cut off badly affected leaves and shoot tips with clean scissors; wipe the blades afterwards.
Bag diseased material and put it in the dustbin – not in your compost.

Dilution / patch test: Not needed.
Not suitable for: —
Safer or more effective options: Use gloves: some hairy caterpillars sting. Wash hands afterwards.

🧴Mild soap solution (insecticidal soap)
🔄 Context-dependent

May help with: Soft-bodied pests it touches directly: aphids, young mealybugs, whitefly nymphs, spider mites, thrips. It does NOT work on caterpillars, beetles, snails, adult scale or fungal diseases.
Evidence: 🔄 Context-dependent Works in some situations – depends on the plant, pest, weather or dose.
Commercial insecticidal soaps are well studied; household soaps vary in strength and can damage leaves – hence “context-dependent”.

How to prepare and use

Mix 5–10 ml (1–2 teaspoons) of plain liquid soap – pure castile or potassium soap – in 1 litre of water. Do not use dishwash liquids with degreasers, detergent powder, bleach or scented soaps.
Spray until the insects themselves are wet, especially under the leaves – it only works while wet.
Repeat every 5–7 days for 2–3 weeks.

Dilution / patch test: Yes – spray a few leaves and wait 24–48 hours for burning, spots or yellowing before treating the whole plant.
Not suitable for: Hot sun or temperatures above about 32°C, thirsty (drought-stressed) plants, seedlings, open flowers when bees are active, and sensitive plants such as ferns, jade and other succulents and some palms. Rinse sensitive plants with water 2–4 hours after spraying.
Safer or more effective options: A ready-made insecticidal soap labelled for plants gives more consistent results than household soap.

🌿Neem oil spray
✅ Established guidance

May help with: Aphids, whiteflies, mealybugs, thrips and leaf miners; partly mites and powdery mildew. It repels pests and disrupts their feeding and growth – it works slowly over days, not instantly.
Evidence: ✅ Established guidance Widely supported by horticultural research and extension services.
Wash edible leaves and fruit before eating. Store neem oil away from children.

How to prepare and use

Mix 5 ml cold-pressed neem oil with 1–2 ml liquid soap (to help it mix) in 1 litre of lukewarm water. Shake well.
Use within a few hours – the mixture breaks down.
Spray in the evening, covering both sides of the leaves.
Repeat every 5–7 days for about 3 weeks.

Dilution / patch test: Yes – test on a few leaves first; use half strength on seedlings and tender new growth.
Not suitable for: Midday sun or heat (leaf burn), open flowers when bees are visiting, near fish ponds (harmful to fish), very hairy or waxy leaves. More is not better – strong mixes burn leaves.
Safer or more effective options: Commercial neem formulations with a stated azadirachtin content (e.g. 1500 ppm) used as labelled are more consistent. Neem cake mixed into soil helps against some soil pests (context-dependent).

🌶️Chilli (and garlic) spray
❔ Limited / anecdotal

May help with: May deter (repel) aphids, caterpillars and some chewing insects for a few days. It is a deterrent, not a reliable way to control an established infestation.
Evidence: ❔ Limited / anecdotal Mostly personal reports; little reliable evidence it works.
Capsaicin irritates skin and eyes: wear gloves and glasses, never spray towards people or pets, keep children away, and wash produce well. It can also repel or harm helpful insects.

How to prepare and use

Wear gloves. Blend 10–12 green chillies (or 1 tablespoon chilli powder) and one garlic bulb in 1 litre of water.
Leave overnight, then strain twice through a fine cloth so it does not clog the sprayer.
Dilute 1 part with 4 parts water and add 3–5 drops of liquid soap.
Spray in the evening; repeat after rain.

Dilution / patch test: Yes – it can burn soft leaves. Test on a few leaves and wait 48 hours.
Not suitable for: Seedlings and soft-leaved plants, plants you will harvest in the next 2–3 days, windy days.
Safer or more effective options: For actual control use the soap or neem spray, hand-picking, or insect netting.

🟡Turmeric powder
🪔 Traditional practice

May help with: Traditionally dusted on ant trails, pruning cuts and seed-tray surfaces to discourage ants and fungal rot. Turmeric shows antifungal activity in laboratory studies, but there is little evidence that it controls pests or diseases in gardens.
Evidence: 🪔 Traditional practice Long used in traditional gardening; limited scientific testing.

How to prepare and use

Dust a thin line across ant trails or a light pinch on a fresh pruning cut.
Do not cake it on leaves – it blocks light. There is no tested spray recipe we can recommend.

Dilution / patch test: Not needed for a light dusting.
Not suitable for: Wet weather (washes off). It stains hands, pots and floors.
Safer or more effective options: Ants usually “farm” aphids and mealybugs for their honeydew – control those and the ants leave. For seedling rot, use a clean, well-drained mix and more air.

🔥Wood ash
🪔 Traditional practice

May help with: A dry ring around pots may discourage snails and slugs while it stays dry; ash also adds potash.
Evidence: 🪔 Traditional practice Long used in traditional gardening; limited scientific testing.
Ash is caustic when wet – wear gloves and keep it off leaves.

How to prepare and use

Sprinkle a thin ring of cold, fine wood ash around the pot or bed.
As potash: up to 1 tablespoon per 12-inch pot once a month during flowering, mixed into the soil.

Dilution / patch test: Not needed.
Not suitable for: Acid-loving plants (gardenia, azalea), soils that are already alkaline, seedlings. Never use coal or charcoal-briquette ash. It stops working once wet.
Safer or more effective options: Hand-pick snails at dusk or use a beer/jaggery trap.

🧂Baking soda spray
🔄 Context-dependent

May help with: May slow powdery mildew if used early or as prevention. It does not cure badly infected leaves.
Evidence: 🔄 Context-dependent Works in some situations – depends on the plant, pest, weather or dose.

How to prepare and use

Mix 1 level teaspoon (about 5 g) baking soda and 2–3 drops of liquid soap in 1 litre of water.
Spray affected and nearby leaves once a week.

Dilution / patch test: Yes – test a few leaves first.
Not suitable for: Repeated use builds sodium in pot soil, which harms roots. Avoid in hot sun.
Safer or more effective options: Potassium bicarbonate products or a sulphur-based fungicide labelled for mildew; remove infected leaves and improve air flow.

🥛Diluted sour buttermilk or milk
🔄 Context-dependent

May help with: Powdery mildew on gourds, cucumber and similar plants – some trials found milk diluted 1:9 reduced it; also a traditional Indian practice.
Evidence: 🔄 Context-dependent Works in some situations – depends on the plant, pest, weather or dose.

How to prepare and use

Mix 1 part sour buttermilk (or milk) with 9 parts water.
Spray leaves in the morning once a week.

Dilution / patch test: Yes – check that leaves do not develop other moulds.
Not suitable for: Overuse smells and can encourage other moulds. Not useful for leaf spots, rots or insects.
Safer or more effective options: Baking soda or labelled fungicide; better spacing and morning watering.

🟨Yellow and blue sticky traps
✅ Established guidance

May help with: Yellow: whiteflies, winged aphids, fungus gnats, leaf-miner flies. Blue: thrips. Mainly a monitoring tool that also catches some pests.
Evidence: ✅ Established guidance Widely supported by horticultural research and extension services.

How to prepare and use

Buy traps, or cut yellow plastic (an old folder or bottle painted yellow) into 10 × 15 cm cards.
Smear thinly with castor oil or petroleum jelly.
Hang just above the leaves; replace when covered.

Dilution / patch test: Not needed.
Not suitable for: They also catch helpful insects – do not hang many near flowers that bees visit. Place them where birds and lizards cannot get stuck.
Safer or more effective options: —

🎯Fruit-fly trap and fruit bags
✅ Established guidance

May help with: Melon fruit flies on gourds, cucumber and melons; fruit flies on guava and mango.
Evidence: ✅ Established guidance Widely supported by horticultural research and extension services.

How to prepare and use

Hang a cue-lure (melon fly) or methyl-eugenol (fruit fly) trap from a nursery near the plants.
Cover young fruits with paper bags.
Pick up and destroy fallen and damaged fruit every day.

Dilution / patch test: Not needed.
Not suitable for: —
Safer or more effective options: —

🥣Beer or jaggery-yeast snail trap
🔄 Context-dependent

May help with: Snails and slugs.
Evidence: 🔄 Context-dependent Works in some situations – depends on the plant, pest, weather or dose.

How to prepare and use

Sink a small bowl so its rim is level with the soil.
Fill with beer, or with water plus 1 teaspoon jaggery and a pinch of yeast.
Empty every morning; refresh every 3 days.

Dilution / patch test: Not needed.
Not suitable for: Keep out of reach of pets.
Safer or more effective options: Hand-picking at dusk.

🪣Traditional fermented sprays (natural-farming preparations)
🪔 Traditional practice

May help with: Used widely in natural farming as plant tonics and pest deterrents. Research results are mixed, and quality varies a lot from batch to batch.
Evidence: 🪔 Traditional practice Long used in traditional gardening; limited scientific testing.

How to prepare and use

Follow a recipe from a reliable natural-farming source; strain well and dilute strongly (often 1:10 or more).

Dilution / patch test: Yes – they can scorch leaves. Test first.
Not suitable for: Leafy greens close to harvest; hot sun. Wash produce well – these are not sterile.
Safer or more effective options: Neem or soap sprays for pests; compost for feeding.

Myths and risky “hacks” to avoid

Seen it on social media? Popular does not mean proven. These claims are common – here is what is actually known.

🥤Coca-Cola, other colas and other soft drinks
⛔ Not recommended

The claim: “Pour cola on plants to kill pests, feed plants or boost growth.”
What we know: Not recommended – please do not pour soft drinks onto plants or soil. Their sugar attracts ants and other pests, feeds unwanted moulds and bacteria on leaves and in the soil, and leaves sticky residues (where sooty mould grows). There is no reliable evidence that they work as a pesticide, insecticide, fertiliser or growth booster.
Do this instead: For pests use the step-by-step approach (inspect, wash, hand-pick, soap or neem). To feed plants use compost or a balanced fertiliser.

⛽Kerosene, petrol, diesel or used engine oil sprays
⛔ Not recommended

The claim: “A little kerosene in water kills all insects.”
What we know: Dangerous and harmful: burns leaves, poisons soil life, is toxic to people and pets, and is a fire hazard.
Do this instead: Neem or soap sprays; a labelled product if really needed.

🧪Phenyl, bleach, toilet cleaner or detergent powder
⛔ Not recommended

The claim: “Household cleaners disinfect plants.”
What we know: They damage leaves and roots, kill soil life and can poison people and pets. Never use them on plants.
Do this instead: Remove diseased parts; use a labelled fungicide if needed.

🧂Salt water
⛔ Not recommended

The claim: “Salt kills pests and weeds.”
What we know: Salt builds up in the soil and kills plant roots and soil life for a long time.
Do this instead: Hand-pick snails; pull weeds.

🍬Sugar or jaggery water as a growth booster
⛔ Not recommended

The claim: “Sweet water makes plants grow faster.”
What we know: Plants make their own sugar from sunlight; adding it attracts ants and moulds. (Small amounts are used inside fermented preparations to feed microbes – that is different.)
Do this instead: Light, correct watering and compost.

💎Epsom salt for every plant
🔄 Context-dependent

The claim: “Epsom salt makes all plants greener and fruit bigger.”
What we know: It only helps when a plant is actually short of magnesium (yellowing between green veins on older leaves). Used routinely it can upset soil balance.
Do this instead: Use it only for a real magnesium deficiency, at the dose on the pack.

🥚Crushed eggshells to stop snails
❔ Limited / anecdotal

The claim: “Snails will not cross eggshells.”
What we know: Trials have found little effect on snails. Eggshells are still fine in compost.
Do this instead: Hand-picking or a beer/jaggery trap.

☕Coffee grounds to repel pests
❔ Limited / anecdotal

The claim: “Coffee grounds keep pests and cats away.”
What we know: Weak evidence. In thick layers they can form a crust and repel water. Fine in compost in small amounts.
Do this instead: Compost them.

⚠️“A stronger mix works better” / mixing several sprays
⛔ Not recommended

The claim: “Double the neem, add soap and chilli – stronger is better.”
What we know: Stronger mixes and home-made combinations burn leaves and harm helpful insects; mixing products can create harmful reactions.
Do this instead: Use one remedy at the stated dilution, test first, and wait a week to judge it.

Reuse, save water, spend less

Grow More with Less: Smart Gardening Hacks

Ten simple projects using things you already have at home – with materials, steps, the plants they suit, care, safety and honest limitations.

Safety rules for every project

Use only containers that held food or drinking water for anything you will eat from. Never reuse containers that held pesticides, chemicals, cleaning products, paint, oil, fuel or medicines – residues cannot be fully washed out.
Every container needs drainage holes: roots in standing water rot within days.
Standing water breeds Aedes mosquitoes (dengue, chikungunya) within a week. Cover stored water with a lid or fine mesh and empty saucers and trays at least weekly.
Thin plastic gets very hot in direct sun on open terraces (pots can exceed 45°C) and becomes brittle within months. Shade it, paint it a light colour, wrap it in jute, or double-pot it.
Cut plastic and tins leave sharp edges: wear gloves, file or tape edges, and keep cutting tools away from children.
Cardboard, newspaper and paper pots break down – replace them when they soften. Avoid glossy, coloured or plastic-coated paper.

💧Plastic-bottle drip waterer15 min · Free 🪴Low-cost container planters20 min · Free–₹50 🥚Biodegradable seed starters10 min · Free 📦Cardboard sheet mulch and compost browns20 min · Free 🧰Tool organiser from waste materials30 min · Free 🏷️Plant labels from scraps10 min · Free 🌧️Rainwater collection for plants1 hour · ₹0–1,500 🪵Soil moisture stick5 min · Free 🪜Climbing supports from waste30 min · Free–₹100 🍶Self-watering bottle planter20 min · Free

💧Plastic-bottle drip waterer
⏱ 15 min · 💰 Free

You need

1–2 litre plastic water or soft-drink bottle (rinsed)
A heated nail or thin drill bit
Optional: a strip of cotton cloth

Steps

Rinse the bottle thoroughly with plain water.
Make 2–4 small holes (1–2 mm) in the cap. For a slower drip, make just one hole.
Dig a hole beside the plant and bury the bottle upside-down to about a third of its height, cap down, about 5–8 cm from the stem.
Cut the base off (or leave it on and refill through the base hole) and fill with water. Adjust the number of holes until it lasts 1–3 days.

Best for

🌱Tomato🌱Eggplant🌱Green Chilli🌱Bottle Gourd🌱China Rose🌱Chinese Hibiscus

Maintenance: Refill every 1–3 days in summer. Clear clogged holes with a pin. Replace the bottle every 6–12 months as it turns brittle.
Limitations: Does not water a whole bed – one bottle wets a small zone. Clay soil drains slowly; sandy soil quickly. Not a substitute for checking the soil.

Safety: Keep the opening covered (cap, mesh or a stone) so mosquitoes cannot breed inside.

🪴Low-cost container planters
⏱ 20 min · 💰 Free–₹50

You need

Old buckets, paint-free tins, cracked plastic tubs, rice or cement sacks, grow bags, old cooler boxes
Drill or heated rod for holes
Gravel or broken pot pieces (optional)

Steps

Choose a container that held food, water or soil – never chemicals or paint.
Make 4–8 drainage holes (8–10 mm) in the base, and a few on the side near the bottom.
Raise it 1–2 cm on bricks or stones so water can escape.
Fill with potting mix (see the plant’s page) leaving 2–3 cm below the rim for watering.

Container depth guide

Plants	Minimum size
Greens, herbs, microgreens	15–20 cm deep
Chilli, eggplant, small flowers	25–30 cm deep, 10–15 litres
Tomato, okra, gourds	30–40 cm deep, 20+ litres
Lemon, guava, curry leaf	45+ cm deep, 40+ litres or half-drum

Best for

🌱Spinach🌱Fenugreek Greens🌱Coriander🌱Tomato🌱Green Chilli🌱Mint

Maintenance: Check holes are not blocked. Top up mix as it settles. Move pots to shade in April–May afternoons.
Limitations: Shallow containers (under 15 cm) suit only greens and herbs; tomatoes and eggplant need 30+ cm depth. Metal tins rust and get hot.

🥚Biodegradable seed starters
⏱ 10 min · 💰 Free

You need

Egg trays (paper), egg shells, toilet-roll tubes or newspaper (no glossy pages)
Seed-starting mix (cocopeat + compost)
A tray to stand them in

Steps

Egg tray: poke a small hole in each cup. Shell: rinse, pierce a drainage hole with a pin. Tube: cut into 6 cm lengths and fold the base. Newspaper: roll a strip around a bottle and tuck the bottom.
Fill with moist seed-starting mix and sow 1–2 seeds per cell.
Stand in a tray, keep moist (not soggy) and give bright light once sprouted.
Transplant the whole pot when 2–4 true leaves appear – tear open the base so roots can escape, and bury the rim below the soil so it does not wick water away.

Best for

🌱Tomato🌱Green Chilli🌱Eggplant🌱African Marigold🌱Bottle Gourd🌱Okra

Maintenance: Paper pots dry fast in summer – check daily. Remove any that grow mould.
Limitations: Paper cells soften within 2–4 weeks; transplant on time. Not for deep-rooted carrots or radish (sow those directly).

📦Cardboard sheet mulch and compost browns
⏱ 20 min · 💰 Free

You need

Plain brown cardboard (remove tape, plastic windows and glossy print)
Water
Dry leaves, straw or compost to cover

Steps

Remove all plastic tape and labels.
Lay cardboard over weeds or bare soil, overlapping edges 10 cm; cut holes for plants.
Soak it well and cover with 5 cm of dry leaves or compost so it does not blow away.
Or tear cardboard into strips as “browns” for the compost bin.

Best for

Beds of vegetablesFruit trees in the groundPathways

Maintenance: It breaks down in 2–6 months; add more as needed.
Limitations: Can shelter termites and snails in some areas; keep it 5 cm away from stems and tree trunks. Not useful in small pots. Mixed evidence on soil effects – works best as a weed barrier.

🧰Tool organiser from waste materials
⏱ 30 min · 💰 Free

You need

A plastic crate, old shoe rack, tin cans or a 2-litre bottle cut open
Sand (optional, for a sand-and-oil bucket)
Screws, wire or cable ties

Steps

Fix tins or cut bottles to a wall or crate with screws or cable ties.
Store small tools blade-down; hang gloves and labels on hooks.
Optional: fill a bucket with dry sand mixed with a little used cooking oil and push tool blades in after use – it cleans and protects them from rust.

Best for

—

Maintenance: Keep it shaded and dry; empty any water that collects.
Limitations: Sharp tools must be stored out of children’s reach.

🏷️Plant labels from scraps
⏱ 10 min · 💰 Free

You need

Ice-cream sticks, cut strips from plastic tubs or bottles, smooth stones, broken tiles
Permanent marker or pencil

Steps

Cut strips about 2 × 12 cm and round the ends (no sharp points).
Write the plant name and sowing date with a pencil or permanent marker – pencil lasts longer in sun.
Push in at the pot edge.

Best for

Every pot and seed tray

Maintenance: Wooden sticks rot in a few months – replace them.
Limitations: Ink fades in strong sun; re-write or use pencil.

🌧️Rainwater collection for plants
⏱ 1 hour · 💰 ₹0–1,500

You need

A clean drum, bucket or tank with a tight lid
Downpipe or a sheet to guide water from the roof edge
Fine mesh (mosquito net) and a cloth filter
Optional: a tap fitted near the base

Steps

Divert the first rain of each spell away (it washes dust and droppings off the roof).
Guide water from a downpipe or roof edge into the container through a mesh-covered opening.
Keep the lid closed and the mesh intact at all times.
Use within 1–2 weeks for watering plants.

Best for

All pot plants – rainwater is soft and ideal for most plants, including those that dislike hard well water

Maintenance: Check the mesh weekly; clean the container each season.
Limitations: Water from roofs is for plants only, not for drinking or washing produce. During the monsoon, a 1,000 sq ft roof can collect several thousand litres in a heavy rain – make sure overflow drains safely away. Check your housing society rules.

Safety: An open or poorly covered container becomes a mosquito breeding site within a week – this is the most important safety rule for rainwater storage.

🪵Soil moisture stick
⏱ 5 min · 💰 Free

You need

A plain, unpainted bamboo skewer, ice-cream stick or chopstick

Steps

Push the stick 5–10 cm into the soil near the pot edge (not into the roots).
Leave for 10 minutes, then pull it out.
Dark, damp and with soil stuck to it: do not water yet. Mostly clean and dry: water now.

Best for

Every potted plant – especially succulents, which rot if watered too often

Maintenance: Wipe and reuse; replace when it starts to rot.
Limitations: Gives a rough reading only. The finger test (2–3 cm) or lifting the pot to feel its weight also work well.

🪜Climbing supports from waste
⏱ 30 min · 💰 Free–₹100

You need

Bamboo poles, dry sturdy branches, an old cot frame or bed grille
Jute twine or old cotton sari strips (cut 3 cm wide)
Old fishing net or a nylon rope grid

Steps

Push 3–4 poles into a large container or the bed and tie the tops together (tepee) – or fix a frame against a wall.
Weave twine or cloth strips across in a grid about 15 cm apart.
Tie plants loosely with soft cloth in a figure-of-eight, leaving room for the stem to thicken.

Best for

🌱Bottle Gourd🌱Ridge Gourd🌱Bitter Gourd🌱Cucumber🌱Tomato🌱Yardlong Bean🌱Hyacinth Bean

Maintenance: Check ties every 2 weeks and loosen them. Re-tie after storms.
Limitations: A fully grown gourd vine is heavy – anchor supports firmly on terraces exposed to wind. Avoid wire that cuts stems or gets hot in the sun.

🍶Self-watering bottle planter
⏱ 20 min · 💰 Free

You need

A 2-litre plastic bottle (clean; held water or a food drink)
A 25 cm strip of cotton cloth or old cotton T-shirt
Potting mix

Steps

Cut the bottle around the middle.
Make a hole in the cap and thread the cotton strip through so 10 cm hangs below.
Place the top half upside-down into the bottom half, cap facing down, wick hanging into the lower part.
Fill the top with potting mix (the wick runs into the mix) and plant.
Pour water into the bottom reservoir up to 2–3 cm below the cap.

Best for

🌱Mint🌱Coriander🌱Spinach🌱Sweet Basil🌱Money Plant🌱Microgreens

Maintenance: Top up the reservoir every few days. Every 2–3 weeks, water from the top once to flush out salts. Wrap or paint the bottom half to keep light out (prevents algae).
Limitations: Suits small herbs and greens only. Not for succulents or plants that like to dry out. The reservoir must be covered so mosquitoes cannot get in.

♻️ Make compost for your containers →