Originally reported and written in August 2022, this story has been republished as part of our archival content.

Elizabeth Kota and her family moved to their residence in Hyderabad amid the first lockdown in 2020. For the gardening enthusiast Elizabeth, it was the perfect time to commence her farming activities on a 1200-square feet terrace.

“When we finally moved to our own house from a congested rented apartment, I found space to put together a terrace garden, which was always a dream. During the lockdown, when there was a sudden break from professional engagements, I decided to make the most of the time,” says the 47-year-old who owns a cookware business.

Elizabeth says she was always aware of the adverse effects of eating store-bought vegetables and fruits which not only ruin one’s health but also lack taste. “Due to the use of chemicals, most of our children don’t know the true taste of fruits. This is the reason why I decided to plant fruits. Today, I grow grapes, figs, apples, chikoo, mosambis (sweet limes), oranges, lemons, bananas, watermelons, pineapples, five varieties of mangoes and many more,” she adds.

She started gardening by planting seasonal vegetables like okras, brinjals, tomatoes, leafy vegetables, cucumbers and a variety of creepers, among others. When this became a success, she didn’t have to buy any vegetables apart from onions and potatoes........

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