With the natural humidity, softened soil, and frequent rains, this is the ideal time to start a low-maintenance garden, even if all you have is a tiny balcony or windowsill.
If you’ve always wanted to become a plant parent but weren’t sure where to begin, the monsoon has your back.
Here are 6 easy-to-grow plants that thrive in the Indian rains, plus simple hacks to care for them—no green thumb required.
1. Tulsi (Holy Basil)
Why it’s great: A sacred and medicinal plant in Indian households, Tulsi grows beautifully during the monsoon.
How to care:
Place it in a spot with 4–6 hours of indirect sunlight.
Water only when the topsoil feels dry.
Trim the flowers to encourage leafy growth.
Bonus: Its leaves are immunity-boosting and perfect for monsoon teas.
2. Marigold (Genda Phool)
Why it’s great: These bright, cheery flowers love Indian rain and are pest-resistant—a win-win for beginner gardeners.
How to care:
Use well-drained soil and a pot with good drainage.
Water lightly; avoid soggy soil.
Deadhead (remove dried flowers) to promote more blooms.
Bonus: Perfect for home décor and festive vibes.
3. Money Plant (Pothos)
Why it’s great: Practically indestructible. Can grow in water or soil. Also believed to bring prosperity!
How to care:
Keep indoors near indirect light.
Change water weekly if growing in a bottle or jar.
If potted, let the soil dry between waterings.
Bonus: Looks stunning in hanging pots or recycled glass jars.
4. Aloe Vera
Why it’s great: A hardy, low-maintenance succulent that thrives with very little attention—plus, it’s great for skin and hair!
How to care:
Needs a lot of indirect sunlight.
Use sandy, well-draining soil.
Water sparingly—even during monsoon, overwatering = root rot.
Bonus: Cut a leaf for an instant post-rain glow-up face mask.
5. Tomato Plant
Why it’s great: Monsoon kickstarts its growing cycle, and you can grow it from kitchen scraps!
How to care:
Use a sunny balcony spot and well-aerated pots.
Stake the plant as it grows to prevent bending.
Watch out for pests—neem spray works well.
6. Coleus (Painted Nettle)
Why it’s great: A vibrant ornamental plant with multicoloured leaves that thrives in rainy, shady balconies.
How to care:
Keep in semi-shade or diffused light.
Water only when the topsoil dries up.
Pinch off the tips regularly to encourage bushier growth.
Monsoon Gardening Tips for Beginners
Drainage is everything. Excess rain = root rot. Always use pots with holes.
Don’t overwater. Just because it’s raining doesn’t mean your indoor plants need more water.
Watch out for fungal infections. Neem oil sprays work well as a natural fix.
Use compost from kitchen waste for that extra nutrition boost.
Give them space to breathe. Crowding pots together may lead to poor airflow and mold.
Gardening doesn’t have to be a full-time hobby. With the right plants and a little care, your home can turn into a green escape this monsoon.
