Sign In
Follow her for more inspiration on @shridulachatterjee. Here's our quick talk with her:
How did you start gardening?
I have been interested in gardening ever since I was 5. My grandfather was a horticulture scientist at the FAO, United Nations. I used to accompany him to the terrace while he watered the 450- 500 pots on our terrace. Unfortunately, I couldn’t manage time to be able to practice gardening on a daily basis until the lockdown during COVID-19 in 2020. I took it upon myself to redesign my terrace, add new plants and trees and finally be able to fully invest myself in this.
What are some of your favourite plants to grow in the garden?
I love growing fruits and vegetables. Being a chef by profession the sight of growing ingredients from scratch gives me instant gratification!
What are some of the plants that you’ve not had as much success with?
I tried growing Brussels Sprouts this winter but it didn’t go as planned. I’d probably give it another try next season!
Are there any new plants on your wishlist?
Omg yes, my list just doesn't end. In fact, I seem to add a few every time I tick off stuff from the list. Next on my list are different varieties of beans, chamomile and a few salad greens.
What would you like to say to our new gardeners?
Patience - that’s all it takes.
Any gardening hack you wanna share with us?
Don’t be afraid to prune your plants before the flowering season. I initially used to be really scared and wouldn’t cut more than a few cm. But I recently pruned a lot of my summer plants to less than half their sizes- and it’s given me fresh new growth of branches, flowers and fruits!
Any particular Instagram accounts you follow for inspiration?
Not really. My grandfather is the one who inspired me and continues to do so. I’ve learnt all that I know of gardening from him.
Let us know your feedback
* Comments must be approved before being displayed.