Terrace farmers switch to summer veggies

Terrace gardening is catching on in popularity, with even the government giving awards to those who boast of the best. Chennaiites who wish to go organic too are opting for produce from their own backyard as it is chemical free. It is something that can flourish throughout the year, but now, with the onset of summer, it is important to keep some pointers in mind when tending to a terrace garden and to ensure that the produce is good, says horticulturist Harish Krishnamoorthy. 

“People can cover the terrace with a green shade net. One should remember that these nets are not required during other times of the year. Also, a lot of wind activity takes place during the summer. People can erect barriers to prevent any damage to their plants,” he points out. 

The severest heat is between May and June. “Before this, some time in March, coco peat, also known as coir pith, which is made from coconut husks, can be mixed with soil. Over time, it acts like a sponge and retains the water. This cannot be done during summer, but a month prior to it,” says Harish. He also advises against any planting, pruning or cutting during the season. “There are possibilities of pest disease that are specific to summer. One can’t avoid it, but must learn to manage it, he says. 

One problem that most terrace gardeners complain about is the unavailability of help when they go on summer holidays. According to Harish, watering the plants once a day in the evening, between 5 and 6 pm is adequate. “When out, ensure that a neighbour or the watchman waters the plants from shoots to roots and not just the root area as this will waste a lot of the plant’s energy. Also, the quality of water is extremely important. During summer, borewell water is saline, and not favourable for the plant. One can use RO or Metro water for the purpose,” he says. 

T Thangavelu, who helps people set up terrace and kitchen gardens, says, “These plants require special care, especially during summer. People grow a range of veggies and plants, but they should ensure that the plants are watered regularly and they spend at least two hours in the garden, and spend a complete day during the weekend so that the plants get individual attention.” 

Jamila Mohamed Ahmed, a resident of Alwarpet, has been gardening for over a decade. She grows vegetables and fruits such as carrot, cabbage, radish, chillies, cucumber, capsicum, bananas and guavas. “Fertilize the soil well before planting using organic compost and liquid fertilisers in summer. With the right choice of plants and proper care, it could be the best part of your home. Also an organic garden in the terrace can help tackle the effects of climate change in your own little way.”