Starting a Terrace Vegetable Garden

A beginner's guide to growing your own organic vegetables on the terrace.

1Start small

Begin with 6 to 10 grow bags or a couple of raised beds. It is easier to care for a small garden well.

2Use a light soil mix

Mix garden soil, compost and cocopeat. It is lighter on the terrace and holds moisture better.

3Choose easy crops first

Greens like spinach and amaranth, tomatoes, chillies, brinjal and herbs are good for beginners.

4Protect from strong sun

In peak summer, a green shade net over the plants reduces heat stress.

5Keep it organic

Use compost, vermicompost and neem-based sprays instead of chemicals, and check leaves regularly for pests.