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9 Plants You Should Grow at Home

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Creating a diverse garden with plants that offer multiple benefits is a wonderful way to contribute to the ecological richness of your outdoor space. So, here goes the list of nine essential plants that everyone should have, each offering a multitude of benefits to enrich and beautify any garden.

1. Tulsi plant

2. Curry leaf

3. Ajwain plant

4. Giloy

5. Aloe Vera

6. Pothos

7. Jade Plant

8. Hibiscus Plant

9. Jasmine Plant

9 Plants You Should Grow at Home

1. Tulsi Plant (Holy Basil)

tulsi plant
Tulsi plant

Embarking on your gardening journey? Make room for the auspicious Tulsi plant – it is a must-have at home.

  • This summer-loving plant thrives from February to October, although it may start to wither in winter. With proper care, it can recover after the cold season.

Direct sunlight

  • For this outdoor plant, ensure it receives at least 4 hours of direct sunlight. When it comes to hydration, water it when the top layer of soil gets parched.
  • Be cautious not to drown it if the soil is still damp; that’s a surefire way to root rot.

Medicinal benefits

  • This Ayurvedic plant has many medicinal benefits and is used to treat cold, cough and many other problems.

2. Curry Leaf

The curry leaf is a fantastic addition to kitchens because it smells and tastes great. It is also a useful herb and you will find it in many homes.

curry leaves

Summer plant

  • It is a plant that loves the summertime, growing well from February to October.
  • In winter, its leaves may look sad and black, but do not worry, it comes back to life in February after a good trim.

Sunlight

  • This plant likes lots of sunlight, about 5-6 hours a day, but it does not need too much water.

Curry leaves provide various medicinal benefits:

  • Curry leaves are a good source of vitamins A, B, E and E, which provide essential nutrients for overall health.
  • Curry leaves are a good source of antioxidants, which help deal with oxidative stress and protect the body from damage.
  • They may contribute to maintaining healthy cholesterol levels, supporting heart health.

3. Mexican Mint/ Ajwain plant

ajwain plant

The Mexican mint, also known as Indian Borage or ajwain plant, is a cool addition to your garden, smelling like carom seeds.

Summer plant

  • It is a summer -hardy plant, flourishes in warmer months but might struggle in winter season.
  • As winter sets in, its growth may face some challenges—leaves could lose their shine, turn black, and wither.

Sunlight

  • A minimum of 2-3 hours of direct sunlight is a must, but if you can offer more, it will surely appreciate the extra sunshine.

Medicinal benefits

  • Being a medicinal plant, it is very beneficial in treating gastric problems.
  • The problem will be cured by eating some leaves on an empty stomach. Moreover, it enhances aroma in various dishes.

4. Giloy (heart-leaved moonseed)

giloy plant

Giloy is an important plant that should be in your home. The plant is characterized by heart-shaped leaves, which is reflected in its common name, “heart-leaved moonseed.”

Summer plant

Giloy is a summer plant that thrives in a warmer season but tends to get a bit sad in winter, losing its leaves and keeping only the stem.

  • It starts growing again when summer comes back, usually in the hottest months, not so much in February or March.

Sunlight

  • For optimal growth, provide abundant sunlight. Place it in the area with the maximum sun exposure.

Medicinal benefits

  • In traditional medicine, especially Ayurveda, Giloy (Heart-Leaved Moonseed) is highly valued for its medicinal properties.
  • Giloy is often used to boost the immune system, promote longevity, and support overall health and well-being.
  • People use Giloy sticks to make a special drink that helps in fever and other health problems.

5. Aloe Vera

Aloe-Vera-Plants

Aloe Vera is one of the most important plants that you should keep at your home. It has many benefits.

  • This plant loves ignorance, occasional watering is sufficient, and it doesn’t require extensive care for optimal growth.

Flourishes in all seasons

  • Aloe vera flourishes in all seasons—summer, winter, and the rainy season.
  • While its growth may experience a slight hindrance in winter, autumn is considered the optimal season for cultivation.

Medicinal benefits

  • Aloe vera, a medicinal plant, is famous for its healing properties, which solve problems like joint pain, stomach discomfort and migraine.
  • The gel extracted from aloe vera serves many purposes and provides various benefits.
  • People apply its gel on the face and hair, using its soothing properties to treat sunburn and deal with hair fall, respectively.

6. Pothos (Money plant)

Here is another plant you should keep at home: Pothos, also known as the Money Plant.

pothos money plant

It is a popular indoor plant known for its attractive trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves. It is also commonly referred to as the Devil’s Ivy.

Summer plant

  • As a typical summer plant, this plant is highly adaptable and can thrive in various conditions, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced plant enthusiasts.

Light Requirements:

  • Pothos can tolerate a wide range of light conditions, from low to bright, indirect light. However, it tends to do best in moderate, indirect light.

Air-Purifying Qualities:

  • Pothos is known for its air-purifying abilities, helping to remove common indoor pollutants.

7. Jade Plant

Jade Plants are known for their hardiness and adaptability. They can thrive in outdoor environments with proper care. 

jade plant

The Jade Plant, also known as the Lucky Plant, is a popular succulent and bring glory to your garden. 

Summer plant

While it’s a typical summer plant, it doesn’t succumb entirely to winter.

  • Although its growth may slow down, and leaves might gracefully exit, with proper care, it can retain its green charm even through the winter months.
  • This sun-friendly plant thrives with a minimum of 2 hours of sunlight, but it’s even happier with an extended exposure of up to 8 hours.

Jade plant in clay pot

Pot size

Its adaptability shines through, fitting seamlessly into any type of pot—small, big, hanging, or whatever suits your gardening style.

  • If buying a new pot, an 8-12 inch size is preferred.

Watering

The plant requires minimal watering—just ensure the soil is completely dry, even at a deeper level, before giving it a drink.

  • Succulents know how to thrive with a little negligence.
  • Overwatering can lead to issues like leaf shedding, darkening, and unwanted insect guests.

This lucky plant can make your luck shine if cared for well, bringing brightness to your garden.

8. Hibiscus Plant

Hibiscus in pot

A blossoming plant that enhances the garden with its splendid beauty.

Summer plant

  • This flowering plant is a classic summer variety that experiences stress in winter.
  • Young plants of 5-6 months might exhibit a slowdown in flowering, while mature plants bloom consistently throughout the year, with the possibility of smaller flower sizes.

Sunlight

  • It will blossom well if exposed to 5-6 hours of sunlight.

Medicinal benefits

  • Many medicines and hair oils are being made from hibiscus flowers.

9. Jasmine Plant

jasmine pot

A beautiful white flowers yielding plant , graces the garden with its magical aromatic flowers. This plant can offer the option to be either a graceful creeper or kept as a normal plant by propagating its cutting.

  • Flower jewellery like Gajras and all are also crafted from jasmine flowers.

Summer plant

  • A classical summer plant grows well in summers, growth gets hindered during winters but mature plants would yield the flowers throughout the year.

Sunlight

  • Medium sunlight of 3-4 hours is enough for its ample growth.

Medicinal benefits

  • This medicinal, aromatic, sacred and beautiful plant is such a stress reliever that everyone should grace their garden with it.

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Sounds like a fantastic lineup of plants! Having a variety that not only enhances the beauty of the garden but also brings multiple benefits is a win-win. It’s like creating a harmonious and beneficial ecosystem right in your own backyard.

Also read:

6 Best plants that need less water

Happy Gardening !!

10 Herbs Easy to Grow at Home

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The magnetism of fresh herbs is undeniable. Not only do they elevate the flavours of our culinary creations, but they also come packed with health benefits. Imagine stepping into your balcony or terrace garden and plucking fresh herbs for that evening tea or aromatic curry.

Growing herbs at home is a delightful journey that connects us with nature’s bounty. Below is the list of herbs which you can grow at home.

1. Tulsi (Holy basil)

2. Curry leaves

3. Mint

4. Coriander 

5. Lemongrass

6. Thyme

7. Parsley

8. Chives

9. Ajwain plant

10. Green Onion 

Let’s explore ten herbs that bringing freshness and flavour to your doorstep.

10 Herbs Easy to Grow at Home

1. Tulsi (Holy Basil)

tulsi plant

Tulsi (Holy basil) is a summer plant and well-suited for cultivation in warm seasons. Tulsi leaves are used into teas or beverages to add a unique herbal flavor. 

Tulsi plant requires well-drained soil and ample sunlight, making it a perfect fit for home garden.

Click here to read step by step: How to grow Tulsi from seeds at home

Medicinal benefit: Tulsi is admired for its medicinal properties. Rich in antioxidants, this sacred herb is easy to grow. Regularly used in Ayurvedic preparations.

2. Curry leaves

curry leaf

The curry leaf is a wonderful addition to kitchens, appreciated for both its delightful fragrance and taste. It serves as a useful herb, commonly found in many households.

It is a plant that thrives in the summertime, flourishing effectively from February to October.

This plant thrives in abundant sunlight, requiring approximately 5-6 hours of exposure each day. However, it does not demand excessive watering.

Medicinal benefit: Curry leaves serve as a rich source of vitamins A, B, C, and E, delivering crucial nutrients essential for overall health. Furthermore, the consumption of curry leaves may play a role in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels, promoting overall heart health.

3. Mint (Pudina)

Mint plant in pot

Cool and refreshing, mint is a must-have herb for every kitchen. Mint is used for various culinary and medicinal purposes. 

  • Mint adds a refreshing and aromatic flavor to a wide range of dishes, including salads, beverages, desserts, and main courses.

Mint thrives in moist soil and partial shade, which makes it ideal for pots or hanging baskets.

Click here to read step by step: How to grow Mint at home

Medicinal benefit: Mint has several potential health benefits, such as; help ease nausea and motion sickness, good source of antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress in the body, its ability to soothe indigestion and alleviate digestive discomfort.

4. Coriander (Dhaniya)

Coriander

The vibrant green leaves of coriander are a staple in Indian cuisine. From garnishing curries to flavouring dals and chutneys its uses are countless.

Coriander grows best in well-drained, loamy soil and prefers cool conditions, making it a winter favourite in many Indian regions.

Click here to read step by step: How to grow Coriander at home

Medicinal benefit: Also, coriander has several potential health benefits, such as: natural antibacterial properties, potentially contributing to overall immune health.

5. Lemongrass (Gavati Chaha)

lemongrass

A fragrant addition to soups, teas, and curries, lemon grass thrives in India’s warm climate. Its citrusy aroma and flavour make it a refreshing choice for homemade teas.

Lemongrass, also known as Gavati Chaha, is typically grown in the warm seasons, particularly during the summer.

It thrives in a tropical or subtropical climate and requires well-drained soil and ample sunlight for optimal growth.

Medicinal benefit: Lemongrass offers various potential health benefits, including; it promote a healthy digestive system, rich in antioxidants, it has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties, contributing to overall immune support.

6. Thyme

thyme

Thyme is a fragrant herb that belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae) and is known for its aromatic leaves. Thyme is a flavorful herb that not only enhances the taste of dishes but also offers potential health benefits.

 Thyme thrives in well-drained soil and prefers full sunlight. It is a hardy perennial plant and can be grown in gardens or containers.

Medicinal benefit: Thyme has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties. It contains compounds with potential antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant effects. Thyme tea is sometimes used to alleviate respiratory issues.

7. Parsley

parsley

Parsley is a versatile herb with a mild, fresh flavor and is widely used in culinary applications. It is used as a garnish and ingredient in a variety of dishes, including salads, soups, stews, and sauces.

Parsley is relatively easy to grow and can thrive in containers or in ground. It prefers well-drained soil and partial to full sunlight.

Companion Plant: Parsley is sometimes used as a companion plant in gardens. Its strong scent is believed to repel certain pests, making it a beneficial addition to vegetable gardens.

Medicinal benefit: Parsley is rich in vitamins, particularly vitamin K, vitamin C, and vitamin A. It also contains antioxidants and minerals such as iron and calcium.

8. Chives

A close relative of onions and garlic, chives give a mild onion flavour. They thrive in well-drained soil and require moderate sunlight. 

chives

Chives are commonly used as a fresh herb in cooking. They are particularly popular in salads, soups, sauces, and as a garnish for various dishes. Due to their mild flavor, they complement a wide range of foods.

Chives are easy to grow and can thrive in a variety of conditions. They prefer well-drained soil and partial sunlight.

They are often cultivated in home gardens and are a popular herb for indoor container gardening.

Medicinal benefit: Chives are low in calories and rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate. They also contain antioxidants.

9. Ajwain plant (Mexican mint) 

ajwain plant

The Ajwain plant, alternatively called Mexican mint or Indian Borage, shares both the aroma and taste of carom seeds. In fact, a simple touch can reveal its identity as an oregano plant.

The leaves of the Ajwain plant, known as oregano, are not only used in pizzas but also has numerous benefits. You can create homemade oregano by drying the leaves of the Ajwain plant.

This plant tends to bloom more during the summer, as it is well-suited for warmer seasons.

It thrives with a sunlight requirement of 1-4 hours maximum, not exceeding this duration.

Click here to read step by step: How to grow Ajwain Plant at home

Medicinal benefit: The Ajwain plant is rich in many nutrients such as protein, carbohydrates, fiber, sodium, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, iron, and thiamine, due to which it is used as a medicinal plant.

10. Green Onion 

Green Onion

Green onion leaves, also known as scallions or spring onions. Green onion leaves are not only a flavorful addition to a wide range of dishes but also contribute essential nutrients to a balanced diet.

Green onions are easy to grow and can be cultivated in gardens or containers. They prefer well-drained soil and partial sunlight. 

Medicinal benefit: Green onion leaves are low in calories but rich in vitamins and minerals. They contain vitamin K, vitamin C, vitamin A, and various B vitamins. They also provide folate, potassium, and fiber.

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Growing herbs at home is a rewarding experience that brings nature’s freshness to your doorstep. From the sacred Tulsi to the versatile mint and the aromatic oregano, these ten herbs offer a symphony of flavours and fragrances.

Also read:

9 Plants You Should Grow at Home

Happy Gardening!!