You bring home a few beautiful plants from the nursery, arrange them on your balcony, water them enthusiastically, and imagine the little green corner they will become. A few weeks later, one has wilted, another looks unhappy, and you are wondering whether gardening is simply not for you.

Peepal Baba says the problem may begin with something much simpler: the plants you choose.

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The environmentalist and founder of ‘Give Me Trees Trust’ recommends five hardy plants that beginners can start with on balconies and rooftops. From curry leaves you can pick for the kitchen to colourful hibiscus and resilient snake plants, his choices are easy to find and relatively simple to care for.

He also has one important tip for what you should do as soon as you bring a plant home from the nursery.

Curry leaf, or kadi patta, is the first plant on Peepal Baba’s list. Besides adding fragrance and flavour to Indian cooking, a curry leaf plant can also make a useful addition to a home garden.

For beginners looking to grow something practical, this is a good place to start.........

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