ATGLife Mates: Featuring Devina Srivastava

Here’s her Instagram Handle to follow her journey: @wings_andwhispers

How did you start gardening?

I’ve lived in rented homes for about 23 years of my life, and I always dreamed of having a garden of my own — a space where I could grow and nurture plants, watch them thrive, and make it truly mine. Unfortunately, that dream stayed out of reach for a long time. Four years ago, I finally moved into my own home, and that’s when gardening became more than just a hobby. It’s now a true passion and a growing venture for me. I’m still learning every day, but I know one thing for sure — this garden will one day be my own little heaven, built with my hands and heart.

What are some of your favourite plants to grow in the garden?

I absolutely love growing rain lilies — they have this magical way of blooming after the rain, like little surprises scattered across the garden. I also have different kinds of roses, each with its own charm, from classic reds to soft pinks and vibrant yellows. Aparajita (butterfly pea) is another favourite; its deep blue flowers feel almost mystical. And then there’s hibiscus — I grow them in different colours, and every bloom feels like a bright burst of sunshine in my space.

What are some of the plants that you’ve not had as much success with?

Climbing roses have truly tested my patience. I’ve ordered seeds from Amazon, tried everything I could, but they just wouldn’t germinate. It was disappointing, especially because I had such beautiful visions of them draping gracefully in my garden. This plant has definitely given me a fair share of headaches, but I’m not giving up. Hopefully, in the coming year, I’ll get a healthy cutting and finally see them thrive in my little paradise.

Are there any new plants on your wishlist?

One plant I truly dream of having in my garden is the hydrangea. Recently, I visited the mountains and everywhere I looked, I saw hydrangeas in the most breathtaking shades — pink, blue, purple, even soft green. I instantly pictured them in my own space, planted along the borders of my garden. At my garden entrance, I have an arch where Ticoma flowers are climbing beautifully, and in a few months or a year, they’ll be in full bloom. My vision is to have hydrangeas flanking both sides of that entrance, so together with the arch of Tikoma flowers, they create a dreamy, welcoming gateway into my garden.

What would you like to say to our new gardeners?

Every gardener has their own struggles. When you first start learning, it often feels like you’re doing everything wrong. Everyone around you — and even the internet — is full of advice on what to do and what not to do. While there are some basics in gardening that you should follow, the real secret is to listen to your own instincts and observe your garden closely. There are countless hacks out there, but each garden is different — what works for one might not work for another. Be patient. Learn how your plants respond to the climate you live in and to the care you give them. Understand your garden and work around its needs. You’ll lose some plants along the way, and that’s okay — every gardener has. Don’t rush the process. Nature moves at its own pace, and the joy is in watching it unfold, slowly and beautifully, in front of you.

Any gardening hack you want to share with us?

When plants need a boost of potassium, banana peel fertilizer works brilliantly — it’s simple, natural, and very effective. Coffee powder is another great kitchen ingredient for the garden; it enriches the soil with nutrients, improves its texture, and can even help repel certain pests. And if you find ants crowding around your pots, a sprinkle of turmeric can work wonders in keeping them away without harming your plants.

Any particular Instagram accounts you follow for inspiration?

I follow a mix of accounts that inspire me not just with their plants, but with the love and care they put into their gardens. Girtanjali Sharma, at @evergreen_living, shares such calming and beautiful green spaces. Chetna, at @getmyharvest, is full of practical tips and creative gardening ideas. @haryali_by_cherie brings such joy with vibrant blooms and cheerful gardening moments. I also love @redleafranch for their rustic, nature-filled charm, and @meditativegardening for the peaceful, mindful connection it brings to the act of growing. Each of these accounts reminds me that gardening is not just about growing plants — it’s about creating a little world of your own, where caring for nature becomes a meditative practice that nourishes both the garden and the gardener.