There is a certain joy in walking into a home that is peppered with green elements. While it has been scientifically proven that green is the color that is most soothing to the human eye, it doesn’t take much to realise that being surrounded by greenery tends to soothe the soul too. It tends to create an overall atmosphere that reduces stress and elevates your mood. And with little respite from the burning heat and soaring temperatures, Chennai homes could definitely use a touch of cooling green. Although many Chennaites seem to be enthusiastic about bringing green elements into their living spaces, there is a glitch space. Homes are growing smaller by the day and not many of us have the luxury of gardens or even decently sized balconies for that matter. Floor space is highly cherished and not many people are willing to part with that.

Thankfully with garden enthusiasts coming up with creative solutions for space crunch issues, a green nook is no more a distant dream for apartment dwellers. “Hanging pots are the most common solution to this space predicament. They don’t take up precious floor space, and with the right drooper plants, even these simple pots can create a beautiful look for your balcony garden.” says Vijendranath, aleading Chennai-based architect. Vertical gardening is another idea that is fast gaining popularity in the gardening segment. However, he feels that they are not a very feasible option for apartment homes. “The concept of green walls, although beautiful, is not always convenient. Since the plants are grown in pouches, they need a specific mix of soil and mineral based manure to grow well and need to be constantly tended to, which is not just expensive but also a time consuming task,” he says. An easy alternative is letting creepers take over your balcony to get that lush green look. “Getting creepers to climb up a wall with the help of a trellis or string frame is one o the best ways to get a burst of greenery without burning a hole in your pocket.” says this landscaping expert. They also make a great natural screen for windows and doorways that let too much direct sunlight stream into your home. Placed right, they can create a beautiful dappling effect of sunlight and shade, while keeping your home cool and inviting.

Another fun solution for those pressed for green space, are the quirky railing planters that are fast gaining popularity with modern apartment owners. With more and more people opening up to innovative ideas for their green corners, the market is now cashing in on this new trend. Available in various shapes and colours, these containers instantly liven up your balconies.

Apart from balconies, windows are another facet of any home that can easily be converted into a green corner. With many new homes having wall to wall windows, it is easy to have an artificial bracket next to the window to create an illusion of a balcony. Apt for placing flowering plants, it is a lovely accessory to any home. And even for the hard core flower lover, all is not lost just yet. A time consuming but long lasting solution is to attach multiple pot holders to a single wall. A unique idea in itself, a plethora of flowers bloom on a single wall is a sight for sore eyes, and definitely well worth the effort. A word of caution though, before you go ahead with an elaborate gardening plan. It is necessary to be well versed in green care. If you don’t know about your plants’ nutritional requirements, all that beauty will wilt away into nothingness in no time.

Even plants with a purpose are not difficult to grow nowadays. According to S S Radhakrishnan, kitchen garden entrepreneur, growing vegetables in balconies is a breeze. The right equipment and a little time is all it takes to maintain a healthy kitchen garden. “Over 50 percent of a nuclear family’s vegetable needs can easily be fulfilled by maintaining a balcony garden,”he says. More of a social awareness program than a business, his company Green Governance Goods, emphasises on the importance of sustainability in cities. “Vertical plant stands, hanging pots and special plant troughs made on the parapet wall of a medium sized balcony will easily feed a family of four, without taking up much floor space” says this retired IRS official.

With so many simple options, your love for greenery need not be confined to potted plants anymore. There is so much more that can be done for apartment gardens; all it takes is a little ingenuity.

Source: Times Property, The Times of India, Chennai