Thanks to Kerala Agricultural University (KAU), the belief was changed over a decade of experiments in growing cold-weather vegetables in the state. In fact, now they are being grown with minimal use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides.

In commercial farming as well as home gardening, they are being grown with the help of vermicompost and neem-based sprays to keep pests at bay.

Overall, Kerala is fostering an organic farming revolution. As the urban population is concerned about pesticides in the food it consumes, farmers and communities are venturing into organic farming and gardening.

‘AT Kochi, teaming up with the government to promote organic farming in the state, the Vegetable and Fruits' Promotion Council Keralam (VFPCK) has come up with 'Grow Your Own Food' (GYOF) initiative  The plan is to encourage more and more people to cultivate pesticide-free, nutritious and healthy food on their rooftop by setting a Smart Kitchen Garden.’’ - The India Express

What are the benefits of having your own Vegetable garden?

It is normal to be concerned about the authenticity and source of food. Food grown with a heavy dosage of pesticides and fertilizers are proven to cause chronic diseases in the long run. Why we also recommend having your own vegetable terrace garden in Kerala is because of a variety of vegetables that can grow in the city’s climatic conditions and soil. With minimal use of organic fertilizer and manure, you can grow healthy vegetables by buying vegetable seeds online. We are listing some vegetables you can grow in your home garden in Kerala.

10 Vegetables to grow in Kerala

Here is a list of 10 easy to grow vegetables at home or commercially in Kerala. You can grow them with the help of vermicompost and organic neem fertilizer and pest repellent available at AllThatGrows.

1) Okra
2) Tomato
3) Chilli
4) Bitter Gourd
5) Radish
6) Cucumber
7) Pumpkin
8) Brinjal
9) Cabbage
10) Cauliflower

Best vegetables for your terrace garden in Kerala

Growing vegetables in your terrace garden can sound intimidating if you are new to gardening. However, most of these vegetable varieties are not only easy to grow but also space-friendly. If you are living in an apartment or sharing one with some housemates, your rooftop or balcony will be sufficient to grow many of these varieties together. Learn the basic growing conditions of vegetables for your terrace garden below.

1) Okra



The three main planting seasons for Okra are October-November and February-March. Okra requires heavy soil with good drainage, its pH between 6.0 - 6.08. Soil to grow with an optimum temperature range between 24-27 degree C. The crop is ready for harvest in 45 days after sowing.

Why grow okra in your Vegetable Garden?

Okra contains negligible calories and has high dietary fibre content, hence it is helpful in managing blood sugar in cases of type 1, type 2 diabetes. Okra contains a very high content of vitamin A and improves eyesight. The antioxidant components of okra also help in lowering cholesterol and improving heart health. The high vitamin C boosts immunity. Consuming freshly grown okra from your backyard can help in optimising the benefits of okra.

You can buy non-hybrid, non-GMO pure okra seeds from AllThatGrows.

2) Tomato



Native to South America, tomato grows well in the temperature between 21 to 24 degree C in sandy to clay type, well-draining soil with ph range 6.0-7.0. It is best to practice crop rotation with this plant. The first crop will be ready to be picked in about 2 months after transplanting. Tomatoes should be picked early in the morning by twisting the fruit and separating it from the stem.

Why grow tomatoes in your Vegetable Garden?

Tomatoes contain high levels of potassium, folate, and fibre with zero cholesterol and regulate cholesterol in a human body. They are also rich in potassium which lowers high blood pressure and fights heart disease. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties,  tomatoes also help fight different types of cancers. Studies prove that consuming tomatoes daily reduces the risk of stomach and prostate cancer. They are also proven to be as effective as milk in developing bone density. They are easy to grow in a home garden and act as great neighbours to many vegetable varieties.

You can buy non-hybrid, non-GMO pure tomato seeds online at best price.

3) Chilli

Chilli is a popular ingredient in most cuisines worldwide. A warm-season crop, chilli, the optimal temperature for growing the plant is 20 to 30 degrees C although the night temperature should not exceed 24 degrees C grows well in loamy soil with decent water holding capacity with ph range 5.5-6.8. Planting can be done in September- October. Chilli will be ready for harvest within 2 months of flowering.

Why grow chillies in your Vegetable Garden?

Green chillies contain zero calories. They enhance metabolism to up to 50%. Chillies contain Vitamin C and beta-carotene and promote healthy eyes and immune system. Freshly picked green chillies are extremely flavourful and are super easy to grow in pots. Chillies are also effective for patients suffering from common cold or sinus. Store green chillies at a dark cool area because chillies to retain their Vitamin C.

You can buy non-hybrid, non-GMO pure chilli seeds from AllThatGrows.

4) Bitter Gourd

Bitter gourd requires well-drained loamy soil with a pH of 6.5-7.0 and temperature range between 25-30C. September - December are ideally suited for growing bitter gourd. It takes 90 days for the fruit to be ready, however, it can be harvested at an earlier stage based on the purpose of usage.

Why grow bitter gourds in your Vegetable Garden?

Bitter gourd wipes out alcoholic intoxication settled in the liver and are the perfect detox ingredient. The juice cleanses and heals many liver issues. Low in calories, fat and carbohydrates, it keeps you full for longer and is a great companion on a weight loss program. Bitter gourd fights viruses and bacteria preventing several allergies and indigestion. They also help in maintaining blood sugar levels and are a healthy choice to grow in your vegetable garden.

You can buy non-hybrid, non-GMO pure bitter gourd seeds from AllThatGrows.

5) Radish

Radish is a cool-season crop, ready for harvest in 50-60 days from the date of planting. It can be planted from August to January. The crop thrives in well-drained loamy/ clay soil with Ph ranging between 6.0- 6.5. Learn more about August vegetables to grow.

Why grow radishes in your Vegetable Garden?

Radishes are a high source of potassium, which lowers blood pressure, and regulates blood flow. They are a great source of roughage and fibres aiding improved digestion. They regulate bile production and water retention in the body. Packed with high amounts of antioxidants, fibre, potassium, phosphorous, zinc, magnesium, copper, iron, manganese and calcium, radishes are a perfect pick to grow in your home garden for it is healthy for all members of the family.

You can buy non-hybrid, non-GMO pure radish seeds from AllThatGrows.

6) Cucumber



September to December are ideal for growing cucumber with the temperature range between 24-27 degree C. Cucumber grows in loamy soil with a soil ph of 6- 6.07. Based on the usage, you can harvest the cucumbers in 45 days from planting.

Why grow cucumbers in your Vegetable Garden?

Cucumbers are 96% water and keep one hydrated. They are effective in flushing out toxins effectively and are recommended for patients with kidney stones. Cucumbers stabilize blood pressure and improve digestion due to high fibre and water content. They also support pancreas for insulin production and help in diabetes. An extremely easy variety to grow in any big or small vegetable/ balcony garden.

You can buy non-hybrid, non-GMO pure cucumber seeds from AllThatGrows.

7) Pumpkin

Pumpkin is a cool-season crop that requires well-draining loamy soil, a ph of 6.0- 6.07. Ideal temperature range for growth is 24-27 degree C.
Sowing can be done between September to December and January to March. Based on the usage, you can harvest pumpkin in 3 months from the day of planting.

Why grow pumpkins in your Vegetable Garden?

Pumpkins are loaded with nutrients that improve the immune system. They contain high amounts of carotenoids, vitamins C and E, functioning as antioxidants.  They prevent free radicals from damaging eye cells and may protect against certain cancers. Pumpkin is also high in vitamin C promoting collagen formation necessary for healthy skin. They do not take as much space as their size may suggest and can be grown in huge pots or in a garden bed.

You can buy non-hybrid, non-GMO pure pumpkin seeds from AllThatGrows.

8) Brinjal

Brinjal is a popular ingredient in South India in making sambar, chutney, and curry. A warm-season crop, brinjal grows well in loose well-draining soil with ph range 6.0-6.8. Planting can be done in September- October. Brinjal harvest will be ready in 2-4 months from the time of transplanting.

Why grow brinjals in your Vegetable Garden?

Brinjals are high in fibre and low in calories, containing several substances that aid in fighting cancer cells. Brinjals also keep blood sugar in check and improve digestion. Brinjals make a versatile ingredient. They can be baked, roasted, grilled or sautéed and used to make several cuisines. Savour freshly picked brinjals from your vegetable garden in family brunches and gatherings.

You can buy non-hybrid, non-GMO pure brinjal seeds from AllThatGrows.

9) Cabbage



Cabbage is a cool-season crop. Sandy to clay type loamy soil with good drainage and a ph of 6- 6.05 is ideal for growing cabbage.  Sowing can be done between September to November. Based on the usage, you can harvest the cucumbers in 3 to 4 months from the day of planting.

Why grow cabbages in your Vegetable Garden?

Cabbages are a great source of beta-carotene. Research shows that they can contribute to the prevention of cataracts. They promote strong bones and teeth as they are rich in minerals, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Cabbage is filled with several cancer-fighting and immune-boosting compounds and is effective against constipation and ulcers. They grow fairly well next to cauliflower as they belong to the same family.

You can buy non-hybrid, non-GMO pure cabbage seeds from AllThatGrows.

10) Cauliflower

Cauliflower is a cool-season crop.  Ideal temperature range for growing cauliflower is 15-21 degree C. Same as cabbage, sandy to clay type loamy soil with good drainage, a ph of 5.5- 6.05 is recommended to grow cauliflower. Sowing can be done between September to November. Based on the usage, you can harvest the cauliflower in 3 to 4 months from the day of planting.

Why grow cauliflowers in your Vegetable Garden?

Cauliflowers are cruciferous vegetables rich in carotenoids and vitamins like vitamins C, E, and K. A compound named sulforaphane in cauliflower is known to improve blood pressure levels. Cabbages also contain omega-3 fatty acids that regulate cholesterol levels. They can also help with nervous disorders like Alzheimer’s and help in preventing cardiac disease. They also make a great companion in the weight loss program and are easy to grow next to cabbages.

You can buy non-hybrid, non-GMO pure cauliflower seeds from AllThatGrows.