You may have seen plenty of flowering plants adorning balconies, but did you know that you can also grow vegetables there? Yes, even in a limited space, your balcony can become a mini kitchen garden. Certain plants can be easily grown in pots that start producing vegetables in very little time. (Local18)
Horticulture expert Dr Kamlesh Ahirwar explains that if space is limited at home, balconies are a great alternative for growing vegetables. For example, bitter gourd can thrive in a pot placed in an area with direct sunlight. The roots of bitter gourd do not spread much, but the vine itself grows long, so a pot at least 12 inches deep is ideal. (Local18)
After sowing the seeds, gently cover them with soil and water lightly. Germination typically begins within 7 to 10 days. Since bitter gourd is a climbing vine, it will need support in the form of a rope, a trellis, or a net as it grows. Enrich the soil every 15 days with cow dung manure or vermicompost. To protect the plant from pests, organic pesticides can also be applied periodically. Within 40 to 50 days, the plant will start bearing fruit, giving you fresh bitter gourds daily. Harvest them when they turn a deep green and reach a size of 4 to 6 inches. It’s one of the easiest vegetables to grow at home. (Local18)
Another excellent option is bottle gourd, which can be grown in your balcony, a pot, or any small space in the house. During the rainy season, there’s often no need for watering as the soil retains moisture. Simply sow the seeds in damp soil and allow them to germinate. Once sprouted, tie the plant to a rope or bamboo stick for support. When the time is right, the plant will start producing fruit. (Local18)
Now let’s talk about an even easier plant to grow beans. Beans can be cultivated year-round and are highly nutritious. To grow them, simply obtain seeds from a local market or farmer and sow them in moist soil. The seeds will sprout in a few days, and the plant will begin fruiting in due course.
Gilki (also known as sponge gourd) is another vegetable that can be grown all year. First, choose fresh, high-quality seeds. Sow the seeds 2 to 3 inches deep in a pot or grow bag, spacing them 4 to 6 inches apart. Cover with soil and water lightly. Sandy loam soil works best; mix in some sand and organic or cow dung manure for ideal results. (Local18)
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. When the plants are young, water once daily. As they mature, you can adjust the frequency and quantity of water. Gilki, like bitter gourd, is a climber and will need support from a rope, bamboo, or wooden stick. (Local18)
Harvesting usually takes place 60 to 70 days after sowing. The vegetable is ready when it is green and feels spongy to the touch. (Local18)