BY Pallavi Pinakin

Nothing brings a sense of peace and joy like an oasis of greenery in your home. Being surrounded by plants enables us to connect deeply with nature, which is one of the greatest sources of replenishment and inspiration.

But what if you have only a small terrace at your disposal?

Don’t worry, you can still cultivate your very own urban garden and bring a breath of fresh air into your day-to-day life. Here are some ideas…

PREP THE ROOF Before starting, it’s crucial to check out a few structural components. Since potted plants can be quite heavy, make sure that the roof of the building can take the weight.

Ensure that the waterproofing is intact – because moisture from the plants may drip onto the floor and begin leaking into the ceiling below. Once you are sure the roof is strong enough and water-resistant, let the gardening begin!

PLAN THE LAYOUT Think about how your terrace garden will be laid out. Would you like to line the perimeter with plants or dedicate one corner to a profusion of greenery?

This will also depend on the distribution of light and shade across your terrace. In general, terraces receive plenty of sunshine but a tall neighbouring building or extending eaves may play spoilsport. Gardeners advise at least four to six hours of direct sunlight for most plants.

TAKE YOUR TIME Unless you have two green thumbs, it’s better to take baby steps. In fact, gardening is all about patience and dedication – so starting slow is ideal!

The first few residents should ideally be plants with which you’re already familiar.

Allow the rest of the garden to take shape over time and introduce different types of plants in stages. Once you’re comfortable with soil, water and compost, you could add flowers, herbs and even vegetables. Multilevel structures such as metal shelves or old stepladders are also ideal for succulents and herbs.

PERSONALISE IT Even if the terrace is small, you can introduce elements of your personality into the garden.

Painted pots and striking planters can brighten up the greens while eco-friendly containers made of coconut shells, kitchen utensils and bottles make for an upcycled vibe.

For an exotic flair, intersperse the plants with decorative items or create a calming ambience with comfy chairs. Visit plant nurseries, read horticultural books and browse relevant blogs to learn more and accumulate new ideas.

The world of terrace gardening is a fascinating place; it is well worth exploring at leisure.