Gardens And Landscapes

An Indigenous Terrace Garden

In a city like Delhi and colony like C R Park, where having one’s own house is a matter of pride, achievement and immense satisfaction, it is an amazing feat to have a house and a garden on the rooftop! And this feat has been achieved in a sprawling measure by K S Gupta, resident of H – 1491. Having constructed his house, 12 years back, his passion for gardening had only just seen the roof top with a few pots and plants. Over these years, the massive roof top of 430 square yards, has grown into a mammoth garden with more than 1000 small, medium and large plants! 

With a vast knowledge of various kinds and varieties of plants and their habitat, Mr Gupta nurtures some rare species, which are otherwise impossible to grow considering the extreme and dry climate of Delhi. From herbs to fruits to vegetables, nothing is left out in his beautiful green and expansive garden. A dense green cover meets the eye as one stands on one side of the roof. Luxuriant spinach, bountiful fruits hanging from the medium sized tree branches, flowers in a riot of colours and the most spectacular ornamental plants simply take your breath away! Some of the fruits such as “Cheeku” or Sapota, “, giant sized Lime fruits, and juicy pomegranates which are so difficult to grow in Delhi weather, are merrily hanging from the tree branches – something Mr Gupta easily does with his expert knowledge on climate control techniques and team of dedicated workers. Rarely grown herbs in Delhi, such as Cardamom, cinnamon, Bay leaf, “Ajwain” or Carom seeds proudly display their green and healthy leaves and herbs on their branches.

The garden also houses an indigenous  rock garden with a waterfall connected to a lighting system which lights up as soon as the waterfall starts! There are 3 covered enclosures which house the delicate plants that need intensive care. Mr Gupta spends about 3-4 hours everyday with his beloved plants everyday from early morning till noon. To keep himself and his team entertained, he has installed a small music system in one corner. The corner is a cozy shade where he relaxes while working in his garden and sometimes even has his breakfast there! At time, if the rain fails, his artificial rain system helps in keeping his plants hydrated with adequate moisture that alters with the cnahnge in music! How amazing and encouraging! Delhi and CR Park witnesses, a conglomeration of dry and moist weather a, a commendable and unique effort in this part of the city!

Here’s wishing Mr Gupta, heartiest congratulations and best wishes for his garden which I am sure will inspire many others to create gardens in whatever small spaces they may have and prove that – it is not about the availability of space but the intention and passion that can create magic !

Authored by Jaya Ray, ray.jaya72@gmail.com

More About Gardening:

http://www.habitattimes.com/2017/12/making-tray-garden.html