What I Learned After Growing 30+ Plants in an Urban Bangalore Garden

A Journey That Started With Curiosity

Growing more than 100 different plants in a small urban garden taught me lessons no book or video could match. Each plant had its own personality, growth pace, and preferences. What worked for one failed for another. The variety forced me to pay attention in new ways.

Microclimates Matter More Than I Thought

Even on the same terrace, different corners behaved differently. One spot received harsh afternoon sun, another stayed cool and shaded. Some plants flourished in one area and struggled in another. Understanding microclimates changed everything – it made my garden healthier and more efficient.

Soil Health Is the Foundation

Good soil makes everything easier. Once I shifted to a well-balanced mix of compost, cocopeat, sand, and leaf mold, the entire garden transformed. Plants looked greener, pests reduced, and watering needs went down.

Pests Are Part of the System

Aphids, whiteflies, mealybugs – they all made appearances. Instead of seeing them as disasters, I began to view them as part of the ecosystem. Regular monitoring and neem treatments kept everything manageable.

The Biggest Lesson: Consistency Over Perfection

The true secret isn’t fancy fertilizers or rare seeds. It’s consistency. Showing up every day, even briefly, makes all the difference. Over time, gardening shifted from a hobby to a lifestyle. Each of the 100+ plants taught me something – patience, observation, resilience, and the beauty of small daily rituals.