You don’t need a green thumb or endless free time to grow a lush garden this monsoon. All you need are the right plants—and maybe a mug of chai to sip while watching them thrive in the rain. The monsoon brings more than just petrichor and poetry. It’s also nature’s signal to plant, prune, and play in the mud (with purpose, of course).

If you’re the kind of gardener who forgets to water or can’t tell compost from coffee grounds, don’t worry. These five fuss-free plants love the rain, ask for very little, and give back in spades—be it greenery, fragrance, or a mosquito-free evening.

1. Tulsi (Holy Basil)

You’ve seen it in courtyards, balconies, and even perched on apartment grills—and for good reason. Tulsi thrives in the monsoon, and you don’t need to babysit it.

Why it’s great:

It’s medicinal, aromatic, and doubles up as your flu-fighting buddy. Plus, mosquitoes don’t like it—so that’s a bonus win for your evenings.

What it needs:

• A medium-sized pot with good drainage

• Four to six hours of sunlight daily (so don’t shove it in a shady corner)

• Occasional pruning........
  

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