What started as an experiment to incorporate homegrown basil and chilies into his cooking quickly evolved into a deeper connection with the joys of gardening.

Follow Ishan’s gardening here: Ishaan Talwar

How did you start gardening?

I initially started gardening with a simple goal—to grow fresh herbs for my kitchen. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and I wanted to incorporate homegrown ingredients into my dishes. The idea of stepping outside, picking fresh basil or green chilies, and using them immediately in my meals felt both rewarding and exciting.

What started as a small kitchen garden experiment quickly turned into a deep appreciation for the process of nurturing plants. I made my kitchen garden entirely from scrap materials in my backyard, repurposing old containers, wooden crates, and discarded pots to create a sustainable and eco-friendly growing space. Watching seeds sprout and thrive in this setup made me realise how fulfilling gardening can be, not just for cooking but as a hobby in itself.

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

I enjoy growing a variety of edible plants, but some of my favorites include:

• Basil – A versatile herb that I use in everything from pasta to pesto. It grows well and adds a fresh aroma to my garden.
• Sweet Corn – There’s something incredibly satisfying about harvesting fresh corn straight from the garden. The taste is far superior to store-bought varieties.
• Tomatoes – They are a staple in my kitchen, and homegrown tomatoes always have a richer flavor than store-bought ones. Plus, they are relatively easy to grow.
• Lettuce – Fresh, crisp, and perfect for salads. Having a steady supply of homegrown lettuce means you never have to rely on packaged greens.
• Green Chili – A must-have for my cooking! The heat and flavor of homegrown chilies are unbeatable.
• Radish – It’s a fast-growing vegetable, and I love how fresh and peppery it tastes when pulled straight from the soil.

Each of these plants brings something unique to my garden, making it both functional and beautiful.

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

I’ve had some challenges with chamomile and oregano. No matter how much I tried, my location’s climate and soil conditions never seemed to support their growth. Chamomile, in particular, is delicate, and despite my best efforts, it never thrived as expected. Oregano, on the other hand, struggled to establish itself, possibly due to humidity or inconsistent weather. While I haven’t had much luck with them, I haven’t completely given up—I still hope to experiment with different growing methods or perhaps find a variety better suited to my region.

Are there any new plants on your wishlist?

Yes! I am always excited about trying new plants, and right now, I have a few on my wishlist:

• Oregano – Even though I haven’t had much success with it, I still want to try again, maybe in a different season or with better soil conditions.
• Blue Agave – I love the way this plant looks, and I’m fascinated by its uses, especially in making natural sweeteners and tequila.
• Tea Plants (Green Tea, Butterfly Pea, etc.) – Growing my own tea sounds like a dream! I’d love to be able to pick fresh tea leaves and brew my own tea blends at home. Butterfly pea tea, in particular, is not just beautiful but also packed with health benefits.

What would you like to say to new gardeners?

Start small—just plant a single seed and watch where it takes you. Gardening is a journey, and each plant teaches you something new. It’s almost like raising a child; you nurture it, give it care, and in return, it rewards you with growth and beauty. Don’t be afraid of failure because even the best gardeners have setbacks. Learn from every experience, and soon, you’ll find yourself with a flourishing garden.

Any gardening hack you want to share with us?

One of the best hacks I’ve learned is the magic of homemade compost. It might sound like a common tip, but trust me, once you start making your own natural manure from kitchen waste, you’ll see a dramatic improvement in your plants. The key to a successful garden lies in healthy soil. When you put effort into enriching your soil, it gives back abundantly in the form of strong, vibrant plants. Composting is not just sustainable but also one of the easiest ways to ensure your garden thrives.

Any particular Instagram accounts you follow for inspiration?

Not really. While I love gardening, I prefer hands-on learning over social media inspiration. I enjoy experimenting in my own garden and discovering things through trial and error rather than following trends. However, I do admire gardeners who share their passion and knowledge online, and I occasionally browse different accounts for ideas.