A Guide to Eco-Friendly Home Gardening

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Commitment to Sustainability 

Dilmah owes its success to the quality of Ceylon Tea. Our business was founded, therefore, on an 

enduring connection to the land and the communities in which we operate. We have pioneered 

a comprehensive commitment to minimising our impact on the planet, fostering respect for the 

environment and ensuring its protection by encouraging a harmonious coexistence of man and 

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efforts in conservation have been associated with human well-being and poverty reduction outcomes. 

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Citation 

Fernando, W. S. (2015). A Guide to Eco-Friendly Home Gardening: 

Ceylon Tea Services PLC. 

Text by 

W. Sarathchandra Fernando 

Photography, Design and Layout by 

Kasun Pradeepa. Wild Studio 

Printed and bound 

Karunaratne & Sons (Pvt)Ltd. 

ISBN: 978-955-0081-16-5 

Ceylon Tea Services PLC 

MJF Group 

111, Negombo Road 

Peliyagoda 

Sri Lanka 

Contact 

info@dilmahconservation.org 

2015. 

A Guide to 

Eco-friendly 

Home Gardening 

W. Sarathchandra Fernando

Message from the Founder 

Being self-sufficient with our food needs and growing our own food seem, over time, 

to have become antiquated concepts. When I was growing up, we had little choice 

but to rely on our natural environment for our food. Most of the fruits and vegetables 

we ate were grown, gathered or picked from our own villages, and even around our 

own homes. So we knew exactly where our food came from and its quality. 

But now, unfortunately, the situation has changed. With greater urbanization and 

commercialization, we have become more accustomed to shopping for our produce. 

When we buy raw produce from groceries, we rarely know where it comes from, what 

goes into growing it or the adverse effects it may have had on the environment. As a 

result, our younger generations are not as healthy as we used to be, and people are 

getting sick far more often. 

This is the reason that Dilmah decided to focus resources to reintroduce the traditional 

practice of home gardening, to promote healthier and more environmentally-friendly 

lifestyles. Since 2011, through the Dilmah Conservation Sustainable Agriculture 

Research Centre (DCSARC), we have strived to create greater awareness among 

urban communities about the tremendous benefits of home gardening, both to the 

health of our families and to our environment. 

Through this publication, I hope that readers will be motivated and inspired to start 

their own home gardens and contribute in your own small way to a better, healthier 

lifestyle and a safer environment for all of us. If you already have your own home 

garden, I hope the information in this document will help you learn even more 

about how to yield the best-quality produce for your family while protecting the 

environment around you. 

Not only will home gardening contribute towards healthier lifestyles, but it will also 

contribute to addressing the food security needs of our country and the world. 

Merrill J. Fernando 

Founder – Dilmah Conservation

A Guide to 

Eco-friendly 


W. Sarathchandra Fernando

Foreword 

Preface 

Home gardening – particularly in urban spaces – has recently become a trend in some 

countries. Families are realising that growing their own food is not only economical 

but also healthy, without the dangerous agrochemicals used by commercial farmers. 

The direct impact of home gardening is in improving the food security of families 

while also increasing their purchasing power. 

There are a number of other advantages home gardening provides for the planet as 

a whole by promoting sustainable living. It keeps the environment free from harmful 

chemicals, improves the soil and reduces waste. This book promotes the reuse of 

material that would otherwise be thrown away bringing about benefits such as less 

plastic in landfills. For anyone who feels like one individual cannot make an impact 

in improving the environment, home gardening is the best example on how one 

individual can make a big difference. This applies to rural and urban communities. 

Now consider the greatest environmental challenge of our time: climate change. 

Home gardens are not only helping humans cope with the adverse effects of climate 

change by providing alternative food sources, but they are also helping fight climate 

change itself. For example, the warming planet is bringing about severe habitat loss. 

Landowners can help reverse this by creating healthy ecosystems to support life 

within their garden spaces. Furthermore, the absence of fossil fuel-based chemical 

fertilisers in home gardens also builds healthy soil that helps trap carbon dioxide and 

keep it out of the atmosphere. 

In this backdrop, this book is a timely intervention to help citizens become a part 

of the solution rather than the problem in environmental degradation. I take this 

opportunity to congratulate Mr. Sarathchandra Fernando for his efforts in creating 

greater awareness among the general public through this publication. 

Through the endorsement of this project, Dilmah Conservation continues its 

commitment to sustainability and environmental protection. Furthermore, the 

free extension service at the Sustainable Agricultural Research Centre (DCSARC) in 

Moratuwa provides practical examples through which the general public can get 

hands-on experience. Congratulations on another outstanding project, which is 

really and truly a public service. 

Professor Emeritus Walter Herath 

Professor of Agriculture Biology 

University of Peranediya, Sri Lanka 

More communities are starting to realise the significance of home gardening toward 

leading healthier lives. This traditional agricultural practice promotes healthy living 

through the use of available space around households to grow food. Organic 

gardening practices enable home gardeners to produce food within one’s own 

property, minus the harmful agrochemicals used in much of the produce in markets. 

Gardens have always been commonplace among homeowners, and gardening, in 

general, has long been practiced as an activity that brings about relaxation. But it is 

only recently that home gardening is being promoted for small spaces, even within 

urban communities. So, whether you live in a sprawling estate or an apartment in the 

city, there is always the possibility to use any available space you have to grow some 

healthy produce for your family. 

Home gardening not only enables you to produce healthy, good-tasting food, but 

it can also be extremely economical. In addition to these benefits, however, there 

are other less-talked-about benefits that have a significant positive impact on the 

environment. 

The absence of chemical pesticides, herbicides and fertilisers not only keeps us safe 

but also keeps the environment safe. Home gardens that are maintained by organic 

gardening practices also help reduce pollution. When implemented on a wide scale – 

home gardens undoubtedly aid in achieving food security. Furthermore, in the longterm, 

home-gardening practices further sustainability and, when done right, help 

retain biodiversity in an age when biodiversity around the world is being threatened 

at alarming rates. Organic cultivation also helps reduce a family’s carbon footprint, 

thus reducing the human influence in bringing about global warming. 

Dilmah Conservation embarked on this project to publish a book on eco-friendly 

home gardening for those who desire to reap the maximum benefits of this practice 

while also making their own contribution to safeguarding the environment. The 

publication is a part of a wider effort that also consists of the Dilmah Conservation 

Sustainable Agriculture Research Centre (DCSARC) that has developed proven 

methods in urban home gardening methods. 

Since this publication is aimed at promoting home gardening within small spaces, 

it includes a host of best practices to ensure that the home garden is successful. 

Concepts of vertical agriculture, organic pest control methods, sound waste 

management practices, water conservation and promoting biodiversity are some of 

the aspects that are covered in this publication. 

08 A Guide to Eco-Friendly Home Gardening 

A Guide to Eco-Friendly Home Gardening 09

Acknowledgements 

The support and guidance of many individuals have made this publication possible. 

While it is difficult to individually name every single person, I take this opportunity to 

thank a few individuals whose assistance has been particularly crucial. 

Firstly, I would like to express my appreciation to Dilmah Conservation without 

which this book would never have materialised. I am also especially grateful to the 

Founder and Chairman of Dilmah, Mr. Merrill J. Fernando, who has promoted ecofriendly 

agricultural practices all his life. His encouragement was an invaluable asset 

throughout the journey of completing this book. 

I thank the supervisor and the staff of the farm at Dilmah Conservation’s Sustainable 

Agricultural Research Centre (DCSARC) for their assistance over the years that resulted 

in this publication. 

Finally, I would like to give my gratitude to Prof. Walter Herath for reviewing the 

publication and Mr. K.A. Abayakoon for the expertise and feedback he shared. 

Almost all the concepts and methods discussed in this book can be seen at DCSARC 

located in Moratuwa, in the outskirts of Colombo. This facility was of great benefit 

for the publication because a guide such as this is futile without being able to 

demonstrate the methods to the readers. However, the Centre serves a far greater 

purpose for the public that can view examples of these agricultural practices taking 

place in the real world. 

Dilmah Conservation Sustainable Agricultural 

Research Centre (DCSARC) 

Free extension services can be obtained from: 

DCSARC Farm, 340 Galle Road, Katubedda, Moratuwa (Next to K Zone) 

Wednesday – Public Day 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

Special day programmes for groups of 25 can be organised by 

sending a request to info@dilmahconservation.org or: 

Manager 

Dilmah Conservation, 111 Negombo Road, Peliyagoda. 


Contents 

Foreword 08 

Preface 09 

Acknowledgements 10 

1. Towards Environmentally-Friendly Urban Cultivation 13 

1.1 The Benefits of Home Gardening 16 

2. Organic Cultivation at Home 15 

2.1 Why is Organic Gardening Important? 16 

2.2 Preparing the Soil Prior to Planting 16 

2.3 Using Organic Fertilisers 17 

3. Vertical Agriculture 23 

3.1 Choosing the Right Plants 23 

3.2 Reusing Materials for Your Organic Garden 29 

3.2.1 Crop Tables 29 

3.2.2 Vertical Wall Racks 29 

3.2.3 Pallet Beds 29 

3.2.4 Pallet Can/Bottle Holder 29 

3.2.5 Plastic Can Rack 29 

3.2.6 Tyre Crop Tower 29 

3.2.7 Lotus Tyre Crop Tower 29 

3.2.8 Wall Sack Model 29 

3.2.9 Barrel Crop Tower 29 

3.2.10 V Rack 29 

3.2.11 Waga Thepawa 29 

3.2.12 Plastic Bottles Fence 29 

3.2.13 Green-wall Tyre System 29 

4. Organic Inputs 33 

4.1 Heap method 23 

4.2 Faith Garden (Food Always in the Home) 29 

4.3 Starter Solution 31 

4.4 Wormy Compost 29 

4.5 Wormy Wash 29 

4.6 Liquid Fertiliser 29 

5. Organic Pest Control 13 

5.1 Growing Plants That Are a Natural Deterrent 16 

5.2 Margosa (Neem) Seed Solution 16 

5.3 Margosa (Neem) Juice 16 

5.4 Margosa (Neem) + Cinnamon + Garlic Mixture 16 

5.5 Kerosene Oil + Cinnamon + Garlic Mixture 16 

5.6 Setting Up an Insect Trap 16 

6. Responsible Garden Maintaining 15 

6.1 Water Conservation in Your Home Garden 16 

6.2 Water Saving Tips for Home Gardening 16 

6.3 Beautification 17 

6.4 Promoting Biodiversity Conservation Within the Home Garden 17 

6.4.1 How to Create a Butterfly Garden 17 

7. Annex 138 

Other new species and new records of Sri Lankan lichens 

8. Glossary 172 

9. Bibliography and Resources for Further Study 172


1. 

Towards 

Environmentally 

Urban 

-Friendly 

Cultivation 

Dilmah Conservation recognises the importance of organic cultivation methods, 

alongside the socio-economic and environmental benefits of adopting these 

practices even within limited urban garden spaces. 

The Dilmah Conservation Sustainable Agriculture Research Centre (DCSARC) 

was established to promote environmentally-friendly organic gardening 

practices through research and innovation towards enhancing the quality of 

agricultural produce, ecologically-sound waste management and recycling, 

natural resource conservation, and promoting urban home gardening initiatives 

by sharing knowledge and encouraging wider learning. 

Presently, over 100 varieties of fruits, vegetables, and 

medicinal plants have been planted at Tikiri Kotuwa and 

the dedicated Conservation Park, which form a part of DCSARC. 

Aside from conducting research on chemical-free fertiliser, 

pest management and non-soil, hydroponic and vertical 

agriculture, DCSARC also actively reuses refuse, such as plastic 

cans, from Dilmah’s Peliyagoda Factory, including wooden pallets, 

empty cans, buckets, and tyres to develop inventive agricultural tools. 

Moreover, DCSARC shares its findings by way of community awareness 

programmes on innovative urban gardening methods, which are suited for 

limited spaces and also encourage the recycling of household and garden 

waste. Through these educational initiatives targeting the urban public, DCSARC 

seeks to encourage responsible consumption and the wider use of healthy, costeffective 

and sustainable practices to help contribute towards a household’s 

daily fruit and vegetable intake. 


1.1 The Benefits of 


Within a space of about 1,000 square feet, a household can grow all the 

fruits and vegetables it might need. However, it is important to be mindful of 

optimising the space towards minimising soil degradation and facilitating pest 

management effectively. Irrespective of the extent of space available, there is 

scope for planting at least a few useful plants in the vicinity of one’s household. 

Home gardening can be a productive and enjoyable pastime 

that can have a positive impact on individuals, their 

families and households, and the environment. 

Both a form of exercise and relaxation, 

gardening can provide a variety of 

psychological and physiological 

benefits. A home garden can 

supply a household with a 

variety of herbs, leafy 

greens, spices, vegetables, 

fruits, tubers, yams, and 

even medicinal plants. 

These additions to the home 

garden can contribute 

towards a household’s 

daily intake of fruits and 

vegetables leading to a 

healthier diet and better 

nutrition. Not only is this 

approach of growing 

your own produce 

simple and economical, 

fresh fruits and vegetables 

are also more flavourful and 

retain more nutrients, 

making them a 

healthier alternative. 

h 

z Organic 

f 

2. 

Cultivation 

at Home 

Organic gardening is the practice of growing 

plants, including fruit and vegetables, without 

using chemical pesticides, herbicides, or fertiliser.

2.2 Preparing the soil 

Prior to Planting 

2.1 Why is 

Organic Gardening 

Important? 

Chemical pesticides, herbicides, and fertilisers 

can be extremely harmful to our health and the 

environment. Adopting organic gardening practices 

helps reduce pollution and minimise the amount 

of toxic substances affecting the environment, 

contributing to both healthy living as well as 

soil and water conservation. Even within 

limited spaces, growing your own organic 

fruits and vegetables at home is easy, 

economical, and rewarding. 

Turning over the soil a few times and exposing it to the air and sun help get rid 

of existing pests. Disrupting the soil will destroy eggs, cocoons, and larvae, while 

exposure to the sun will make it undesirable for pests. 

2.3 Using Organic 

Fertilisers 

DCSARC prepares many organic fertilisers 

that are low-cost and effective. Organic 

fertilisers are a good source of carbon 

and nitrogen. They also help the soil 

better retain water, which aids in 

the improvement of the soil quality, 

thereby producing a better harvest. 

Adopting organic gardening practices within one’s 

home garden by using chemical-free fertilisers and 

pesticides ensures that the produce is not tainted 

with residues of harmful agrochemicals. Organic cultivation 

also has broader positive implications for the environment as it contributes 

towards a reduction in one’s carbon footprint and consequently helps mitigate 

global warming. The greening that occurs by way of home gardening also helps 

the conservation of the environment and local ecosystems, and biodiversity at 

large. Greening contributes to energy conservation as it has a cooling effect on 

the environment, especially within urban areas. 

Soil is integral to all life, be it plant, animal, or human, not only as a habitat or 

a medium for growth, but also as a key component in essential production 

processes such as crops for food. Organic agricultural practices, especially those 

such as composting, also help rejuvenate the soil and improve soil health, 

supporting a stable ecosystem of soil-dwelling flora and fauna. Healthy soil rich 

in organic matter retains water and nutrients, thus improving plant growth and 

yield. Composting allows for the recycling of kitchen and garden waste into a 

nutrient -rich and chemical-free soil additive to improve plant growth and soil 

functions. 

18 A Guide to Eco-Friendly Home Gardening

a 

3. 

Vertical 

Agriculture 

Based on the availability of space, gardens 

can be categorised into the following 

Large Gardens 

Large gardenes are those possessing adequate or excess space, which allows for 

a planned garden suitable for growing numerous crops and the availability of 

raw materials for supplying one’s own carbon-rich fertiliser, liquid fertiliser and 

pesticides. 

Medium-sized Gardens 

Medium-sized gardens which are relatively limited in space, but 

provides adequate space for a planned plot and unplanned 

gardening depending on what spaces could be optimised. 

These gardens will have adequate space for pots 

and installing structures such as crop towers. 

However, there will be limitations in 

the availability of raw materials 

available for preparing 

one’s own carbon-rich 

fertiliser, liquid fertiliser 

and pesticides. 

Small 

Gardens 

Small gardens which 

are very limited in 

space with minimal 

ground space 

available for planting. 

The availability of 

raw materials for preparing 

one’s own carbon-rich fertiliser, 

liquid fertiliser and organic 

pesticides will be very unlikely. 

u

A plot of 30 x 30 feet can provide a substantial crop for daily household 

consumption. In order to optimise this space in a manner which does not lead 

to soil degradation and mitigate diseases, plants must be rotated to ensure a 

perennial crop. 

3.1 Choosing the 

Right Plants 

Choosing the right plants will rely on the type of garden space 

available since it will influence soil conditions, drainage of 

water, and the amount of available shade and sunshine. 

Plants, seeds and cuttings of a variety of fruits and 

vegetables can be planted in home gardens. 

3.2 Reuse of Materials 

for Your Organic Garden 

Given the limitations in space within urban environs, maintaining a home garden 

could seem like a daunting task. However, by reusing certain non-biodegradable 

waste items, even small spaces can be optimised for cultivation. The irresponsible 

disposal of non-biodegradable plastic, polythene and rubber waste has proved 

to be especially damaging to the environment. Burning this refuse results in the 

release of toxic gases into the atmosphere, while discarding them into landfills 

leads to soil and water pollution with destructive impacts to ecosystems. 

Further, carelessly allowing such items to gather within the home 

garden creates favourable conditions for disease-carrying 

mosquitoes to breed, and spread illnesses 

such as Dengue Fever. 

Typical Plants 

Kathurumurunga, amberella, chili, tomato, 

leafy greens, beetroot and kohila. 

Seeds 

Cowpea, mung bean, long beans, ridged gourd, 

snake gourd, bitter gourd, squash, cucumber, pumpkin, 

spinach, carrot, turnip, thampala, okra. 

Cuttings 

Spinach, kohila, sweet potato, pennywort, 

crepe ginger, spinach, sarana leaves, gotukola, 

murunga, kiri ala, dehi ala, vel ala, 

pineapple. 


Dilmah Conservation has taken a step towards using non-biodegradable 

household refuse including polythene bags, old tyres, and plastic cans and 

bottles, for an innovative and environmentally-friendly purpose. Refuse such as 

used plastic bottles, empty cans and sacks can be used for planting. Additionally, 

discarded wooden pallets from Dilmah Tea factories are also utilised to make 

raised garden boxes to plant vegetables. Even at home, plastic bottles, cans, 

containers and tyres can be reused as pots with simple modifications to grow 

flowers, vegetables and other edible greenery. Not only are these methods 

sustainable, cost-effective and useful in setting up a home garden, 

they benefit both the household and the environment. 

There are several methods to grow crop vegetables 

with vertical models. The photographs shown 

here are examples of models that can be 

easily constructed at home for gardening 

within a limited amount of space.

3.2.1 

Crop Tables 

You will need 

d 

d 

d 

d 

Wooden pallet planks 

Four 2x2 wooden bars 

Soil mix made with equal parts 

compost, top soil and coir dust 

Your choice of seeds or saplings 

How to set it up 

1. Use the 2x2 wooden bars to build the stand or the four legs of the table. 

2. Using the wooden pallet planks, build a rectangular frame with a smaller 

rectangular space at the centre. 

3. Build a rectangular box using wooden pallets. One side of the box must 

be open. 

4. Attach the rectangular frame to the top of the table stand. 

5. Insert the rectangular box in to the rectangular frame. 

6. Fill the box with the soil mix. 

7. Plant the seeds or saplings in the box. 

8. Pour water in to the box. 

The following plants can 

be grown using this model 

Salad leaves, lettuce, cabbages 


3.2.2 Vertical 

Wall Racks 

You will need 

d 

d 

d 


Soil mix made with equal parts compost, 

top soil and coir dust 



1. Build the wall rack with wooden pallet planks by placing them 

horizontally to construct the main frame. 

2. Position 3 or more shelves with wooden pallets on the wooden rack. 

3. Attach the wall rack on to a wall. 

4. Fill each rack with the soil mix. 

5. Plant seeds or plants on the shelves. 

6. Water each shelf on the rack daily. 

The following plants 

can be grown using 

this model 

Radish, lettuce, long 

beans, carrot and 

types of chilli 

3.2.3 Pallet Beds 

You will need 

d 

d 

d 

d 





Withered plant parts for mulching 




1. Demarcate a plot using the wooden planks and fill with top soil and the soil mix. 

2. Mark ridges on the plot to plant seeds or saplings. 

3. Dig up ditches in between the ridges to facilitate efficient drainage. 

4. Plant seeds or saplings on the ridges. 

5. Cover the plant bed ridges using mulch. 

6. Water the beds twice a day. 

The following plants can be 

grown using this model 

Brinjals, ladies fingers, chili, long beans and 

all other types of plants 

3.2.4 Pallet Can / 

Bottle Holder 

You will need 

d 

d 

d 

d 


Plastic cans or plastic bottles 



Your choice of seeds or saplings


3.2.5 Plastic Can Rack 

1. Cut the wooden pallet planks into long and narrow wooden strips and small 

wooden bracket. 

2. Position the longer wooden plank vertically to be attached to the wall. 

3. Fix the smaller piece of wood onto the longer strip of wood. 

4. Attach the wooden bracket under the smaller piece of wood as support, so 

that it can bear the weight of the can. 

5. Attach the can holder on to a wall. 

6. Cut out the surface of a plastic can or a plastic bottle and drill holes onto 

the other side. 

7. Fill the bottles or plastic cans with the soil mix. 

8. Plant the seeds or saplings inside the container. 

9. Place one container per holder. 

10. Water each container daily. 

d 

d 

d 

d 

d 

You will need 

About eight 2x2 wooden bars 

Waste pallet planks 



Plastic cans 

Your choice of seeds 

and saplings 


can be grown using this model 

Radish, lettuce, long beans, carrot, types of 

chilli and leeks


1. Build 2 triangular frames using wooden bars. 

2. Build 4 or 5 wooden shelves using waste pallet planks. 

3. Fit each wooden shelf horizontally onto the two main triangular frames. 

4. Setting up 2 shelves at the bottom of the frame keeps the main frame stable. 

5. Two shelves can be positioned in the middle and one can be placed 

on the top. 

6. Cut a rectangular piece off one side of the plastic can and drill a few holes on 

the other side to enable efficient drainage. 

7. Fill each plastic can with the soil mix. 

8. Place seeds or saplings inside the can. 

9. Arrange the cans on the wooden shelves. 

10. Water each can twice a day. 

3.2.6 Tyre Crop Tower 

Tyres prove to be a good material to be used in 

home gardening as it is a very strong object able 

to withstand a large weight and still holds its 

shape when stacked on top of each 

other. Its waterproof feature prevents 

soil erosion and seepage. 

Additional benefits of using 

tyres include the prevention 

of diseases spread by 

mosquitoes as a result 

of water retained in 

waste tyres. 



this model 

Radish, lettuce, long beans, carrot, 

types of chilli and others. 

You will need 

d 

d 

d 

d 

d 

d 

d 

d 

Tyres of three different sizes 

Bricks and coconut husks 

An old PVC pipe 



Your choice of seeds and saplings 

A plastic pot 

Drilling machine 

A knife 



1. Cut and remove one flat side of each tyre wall completely. 

2. Place the large tyre on the bottom, and fill the tyre with the soil composition. 

3. Place the medium-sized tyre on top of the large tyre and fill the tyre with the 

soil composition. 

4. Place the smallest tyre at the very top and fill it with the soil composition. 

5. Cut a hole on the bottom of the plastic pot. 

6. Place the plastic pot on top of the smaller tyre and fill the pot with the soil 

composition. 

7. Drill holes on the PVC pipe asymmetrically from top to bottom and insert the 

PVC pipe to the centre of the tyre tower. 

8. Make a large circle by placing coconut husks around the circle. 

9. Make a secondary, smaller circle at the centre of the large circle using bricks. 

10. Fill each circle with the soil composition. 

11. Place seeds or saplings on the circles, the tyres and on the plastic pot. 

12. Pour water into the PVC pipe. 

Upon completion of the structure, a coconut shell can be used to cover the top 

of the pipe to prevent mosquito breeding, and the shell can also be used to 

water the tower periodically without having to water the whole structure. 



this model 

Ground layer: Green chilli varieties, herbs. 

Second layer: Lettuce varieties, carrots, 

beet, turnip varieties. 

Third layer: Salad varieties. 

It is recommended to use 

intercropping methods in 

order to optimise space 

utilisation as well as enhance 

the soil nutritional level. 

3.2.7 Lotus Tyre 

Crop Tower 

d 

d 

d 

d 

d 

You will need 

Tyres 




Sharp drilling knife d Gloves 

Wooden rod 

Sharp iron rod 

d 


1. Cut the edge of the tyre into a zigzag shape 

(representing a lotus flower) on one side. 

2. After the tyre is cut, turn the tyre inside out to form the lotus design. 

3. Place the largest tyre at the bottom and fill it with the garden soil mixture. 

4. The same procedure can be followed for a smaller tyre, which can be placed 

on top of the large one. The procedure can be repeated to the preferred 

height, although two layers are recommended for optimum yield and 

strength of the structure. 

It is important to note that the choice of 

plant must have a root system no 

longer than 6 inches deep 

for this design to have 

an optimum yield. 



this model 

Vegetables, herbs, fruits, flowers 

.

3.2.8 

Wall Sack Model 


d 

d 

d 

d 

d 

You will need 

Used polythene or cloth sacks 

A needle and string 

A few wooden pallet planks 




1. Divide the sack into two sections by stitching vertically 

along the middle of the sack. 

2. Cut small slots on the two sections. 

3. Fill the two sections with the soil mix. 

4. Stitch the top end of the sack, loop it around a wooden 

plank and stitch that end to the lower end of the sack. 

5. Plant the saplings or seeds in the slots on the two 

separated parts of the sack. 

6. Attach the sack to a wall with the aid of a wooden plank. 


can be grown using this model 

Types of chilli and spinach 


3.2.9 Barrel Crop Tower 

3.2.10 V Rack 

You will need 

d 

d 

d 

d 

Used plastic barrel, old PVC pipe, 

piece of bamboo/wood plank 

Grinder and hot gun 




d 

d 

d 

d 

You will need 


Four 2x2 wooden bars 

Soil mix made with equal parts compost, top soil and coir dust 



1. Draw horizontal slots on the barrel to appropriate 

lengths leaving sufficient gaps in between. 

2. Cut slots using the grinder and heat the area 

surrounding the slots with the hot gun and 

pull the bottom strip outwards using a piece 

of bamboo or wood. 

3. Place a PVC pipe vertically at the centre and 

drill holes asymmetrically from top to bottom. 

Place end cap at the bottom. 

4. Fill the bottom layer of the barrel with 4 inches of 

small pieces of brick to facilitate efficient drainage. 

5. Fill the barrel with the soil mix. 

6. Place the seeds or saplings inside the slots and on 

top of the barrel. 

7. Pour water into the PVC pipe twice a day. 

The triangular base made 

with pallets is optional. 



this model 

Radish, lettuce, long beans and 

types of chili 



3.2.11 Waga Thepawa 

1. Cut off two small triangles from both ends of two wooden planks. 

2. Place the wooden planks horizontally on the V-shaped edges 

of the two notched planks to make shelves. 

3. Attach wooden pallet planks to the empty spaces 

between the horizontally-placed wooden planks. 

4. Make a small wooden frame using pallet planks. 

5. Build a pallet bed using pallet planks and 

place it on the ground. 

6. Fill the pallet bed with the soil mix. 

7. Place the wooden frame in the 

middle of the pallet bed and 

fill it with the soil mix. 

8. Place the V Rack at the centre 

of the wooden frame. 

9. Fill each shelf on the V Rack 

with the soil composition. 

10. Plant the seeds or saplings 

in each shelf of the V Rack, 

on the smaller box and 

the pallet bed. 

11. Water twice a day. 

d 

d 

d 

d 

You will need 

Waste pallet planks and nails 

Three 2x2 wooden bars 






this model 

Mukunuwenna, water spinach (kankun), 

centella (gotukola), types of chili, types of 

cabbage (athugowa), spinach 



1. Build a tripod using the three 2x2 wooden bars. 

2. Build three triangular frames using the pallet planks. Different sized pallet 

planks can be used for this with the largest at the bottom and smallest at 

the top. Make sure to leave sufficient gaps in between. 

3. Slide the large triangular frame to the bottom, the medium one to the 

middle and place the smaller one at the top as a part of the tripod. 

4. Cover the base of each frame as completely as possible using planks which 

that were cut to size. Leave a few small gaps for efficient drainage. 

5. Fill each box with the soil mix. 

6. Place coconut husks around the base of the tripod and fill it with soil. 

7. Place seeds and saplings in each triangular box. 

8. Water twice a day. 

The following 

plants can be 

grown using 

this model 

Radish, lettuce, long beans, 

carrot, types of chilli and leeks

d 

d 

d 

d 

3.2.12 Plastic 

bottles fence 

You will need 

Old plastic bottles 

Wire, paper cutter or knife, nail 





1. Cut off the bottom of the bottle 

using a paper cutter/sharp knife. 

2. Pierce small holes on the lid using a 

heated nail or sharp object. 

3. Fill the bottle with a thin layer of coir 

dust and fill it up with soil (made to the 

above composition). 

4. Attach bottles to mesh fence using wire. 

5. Plants seeds or saplings depending on 

your requirement. 

6. Alternatively, if you don’t have a mesh 

fence, you can set up a structure 

using an old GI pipe and mesh. 

7. Water the plants twice a day. 

The following 

plants can be 

grown using 

this model 

3.2.13 Green-wall Tyre System 

d 

d 

d 

d 

You will need 

Large tyres 

Soil mix made with equal parts compost, top soil and coir dust 


Drilling machine 

Bolts 

d 


1. Place the tyres vertically with 3 large tyres at the bottom, followed by two on 

the second layer, and finally another at the top. 

2. For this structure, cutting into the inside of the tyre is not required as the face 

of the tyres will be useful for soil retention. 

3. Drill a hole at the bottom of the tyres on the first layer for the excess waste 

water to drain out. 

4. Join each tyre to one another with two bolts each to strengthen the overall 

structure. 

5. Drill a half-inch hole on top of each tyre to provide a drip irrigation system 

where water from the top drips to the layers on the bottom. 

6. Constant watering is not necessary with this type of structure. 

7. Drip pipes can be installed for auto-watering of the structure. 

The following plants can be 

grown using this model 

All varieties of plants can be grown using this model, ranging from herbs 

and beans to tomatoes and lettuce varieties. Climbers are especially 

recommended for this structure. It is important to note that the choice 

of plant must have a root system no longer than 6 inches deep for this 

design to have an optimum yield. 

Radish, green leaves, herbs, 

lettuce, long beans, carrot 

and types of chilli

Organic 

Inputs 

4.s 

Organic inputs are 

biodegradable matter 

obtained from the 

environment. It could 

include leaf litter from the 

garden, kitchen waste, or 

manure. The decomposition 

of these materials can be used 

to prepare organic fertiliser. 

The nutrients in these 

preparations can be 

enhanced by adding other 

commercially-bought organic 

additions such as dolomite or 

kieserite and rock phosphate 

(ERP). Mixing 1kg of this to 50kg 

of organic detritus (1:50 ratio) is 

recommended. Moreover, other 

organic inputs can also be added. 

These include: 

i 

d 

Dry compost 

(Heap method & Faith garden) 

d 

d 

d 

Starter solution 

Earthworm compost 

Earthworm solution 

d Liquid fertilizer using 

manure and green leaves 


4.1 Heap method 

Black sheet of polythene 

You will need 

Green leaves and dry leaves, cow manure, ash, rock phosphate and lime, 

water, pre-made compost that has partially decomposed. 

Leafy matter 

Cow dung mixed with water and 

some pre-made compost 

Soil 


1. Locate a dry area in your garden which doesn’t get any direct sunlight and dig 

a hole of about 4 x 4 x 2 feet. 

2. Make a slurry of cow dung with water and mix it with some pre-made 

compost and line the bottom of the hole with this mixture. 

3. Mix in 6 inches of dry leaves followed by another six inches of green leaves 

and repeat the steps until the hole is filled up. 

After 2 weeks, if the compost 

heap is dry, moisten it with the 

prepared slurry. 

If you require compost in a matter of weeks, the plant material can be cut 

up into smaller pieces and stacked in shorter layers. The mixing would be 

done after 3rd, 6th and 9th day after preparation, with the slurry added 

for moisture. The compost will be ready for use on the 12th day. 

4. Keep the opening of the hole covered with a black sheet of polythene and 

after 

2 weeks, if the compost heap is dry, moisten it with the prepared slurry, mix 

the heap and leave for a month. 

5. Repeat the previous step twice and moisten the mixture as required. 


4.2 Faith Garden (Food Always 

in the Home) 

Food waste, kitchen scraps and leaf litter from the garden can be used 

to make your own organic fertiliser for free. Homemade compost can be 

used as an effective soil additive and fertiliser that is rich in nutrients. It 

can be mixed into soil when planting. 

You will need 

The simplest way to make your own compost is by collecting your 

household and garden refuse. This could include food remains, tea 

and coffee grounds, fruit and vegetable scraps, grass cuttings, coconut 

husks, dried leaf litter and small twigs. This green and brown waste is 

rich in nitrogen and carbon. You can also use cow dung and a little old 

compost if available. 


Keep adding to the bin or 

pile and remember to water 

regularly. 

Household waste materials 

Leafy matter 

Damp soil 

Household waste materials 

Twigs, dried leaves and 

coconut husks 

1. You can either use an old garbage 

bin with holes drilled into it or build a 

fenced pile using old scraps, wood 

or wire mesh if space permits. 

2. Place materials like twigs, dried 

leaves and coconut husks at 

the bottom. These help 

with air circulation. 

3. Add a layer of household 

waste materials, followed 

by a little more damp soil 

and leafy matter. It is important 

to wet each layer. 

4. You can keep adding to the bin or pile 

and remember to water regularly. 

5. Continue to turn the contents of the pile with a stick or a shovel every 

couple of weeks. This will enable the microorganisms and the worms and other 

creatures in the soil to turn the contents of the bin into compost over the course 

of a few months. 

Turn the contents of the 

pile with a stick or a 

shovel every 

couple of weeks. 


4.3 Starter Solution 

This liquid is used to increase the microbial activity in the soil, which in 

turn will increase the plant’s productivity. 

You will need 

Cow manure (20kg), livestock urine (20 litres), sugar cane jaggery 

(2kg) or molasses (2 bottles) and 20 litres of water. 


1. Mix the ingredients in a cement, clay or plastic container. Metal containers 

are not advised due to the chances of undesired chemical activity that may be 

triggered. 

Mix the composition every 

morning and evening daily. 

Use 

Sugar cane jaggery (2kg) 

Gram powder (1kg) 

Molasses (2 bottles) 

2. Cover the opening with a cotton cloth and leave 

for 24 - 72 hours. 

3. Mix the composition every morning and evening 

daily. 

4. Strain this mixture using a cotton cloth and the 

remaining pulp can be used as compost. 

Water (10l) 

Solution (1l) 

5. Dilute 1 part of the solution with 10 parts water prior to 

use. This can be used for up to 1 acre of land. 

Livestock urine (20 litres) 

Cow manure (20kg) 

This Starter Solution has a short lifespan, and will only last up to 2-3 days. 

If left in the container for a longer period, microorganisms will die and 

be of no use for fertilising purposes. 


4.4 Wormy Compost 

This concoction uses the natural development of earthworms (Eudrilus eugeniae) 

to cultivate microorganisms required for effective composting. 

Collection of earthworms 

Pick an area with dense, moist soil with a small quantity of cow dung 

and spray molasses mixed with water and cover it up with a cloth. 

A number of earthworms will have emerged by the next morning. 

300 earthworms 

Collection of compost 

When it is time to collect the compost, stop 

watering the container. The earthworms will then 

move to the moist soil at the bottom. Compost 

can be collected from the top for usage, and more 

partially decomposed compost can be added 

to fill the container so that the earthworms can 

restart the process. This compost is high in 

carbon and nitrogen and 

is better for plants than 

artificially-produced 

fertilisers. 

Tip 


1. Add approximately 300 earthworms to a plastic, cement, or clay container 

with partially decomposed compost filling 3/4th of the container. 

2. Keep the container in a dry location, away from direct sunlight, but spray 

water on the top daily to keep the compost moist. 

Add cow manure, curd and jaggery 

to increase the population of the 

earthworms. 

Spray water on the top daily. 


4.5 Wormy Wash 

Similar to the Wormy Compost, this organic fertiliser collects the 

excrement of earthworms (Eudrilus eugeniae) in liquid form as 

nutrients for crops. 


4.6 Liquid Fertiliser 

This mixture is a combination of various kinds of green leaves, cow manure and 

water, all added into a non-metallic container. It is covered and left for three 

days, and is mixed occasionally during the course of 21 days. Once the foaming 

stops, it is no longer necessary to mix the material, and the foul smelling yet 

completely organic concoction is ready to fertilise your garden. 

Leaves, hay, 

and other 

biodegradables 

Cow manure and 

earthworms 

Compost 

Sand 

At the site, set up a large plastic 

bin holding (bottom to top): 6 

inches of crushed brick, 6 inches 

of sand, 14 inches of compost, 

2 inches of cow manure and 

earthworms topped off with 4 

inches of leaves, hay, and other 

biodegradables. A tap can 

be fixed at the bottom of the 

container to collect the solution. 

d 

d 

d 

d 

d 

You will need 

100 litres of water 

A plastic barrel 

5 kg of cow manure 

4-6 sugar cane shoots 

10 kg of 15 varieties of plant leaves: 

Gliricidia, Winged bean (Dambala), 

Kathurumurunga, Kapparawalliya, Wild 

Sunflowers, Kappettiya, Nika, Adathodaa, 

Kohomba, Araliya, Kahabiliya, Edaru, 

Gadhapaana, Ipil ipil, lemon. 

Cow manur( 5kg) 

Leaves (10 kg) 

Sugar cane 

How to use 

Crushed brick 

Spray the contents at the top of the 

barrel with water several times a day, or 

use a drip method if possible. 

A faucet is attached to the 

bottom of the bin, and this 

can be used to release the fluid 

collected after 15 days. 

Dilute 1 litre of fluid with 

10 litres of water (8 litres 

if it is during the rainy season) 

prior to using as 

plant fertilser. 

Water (10l) 

Water (10l) 

Solution (1l) 



Mix once every 3 days 

How to 

1. Leave the sugar cane shoots on the ground for 2 days 

prior to making the liquid. 

2. Cut the leaves in to small pieces. 

3. Pour water in to the barrel and add the cow manure. 

4. Mix the cow manure with water. 

5. Add the chopped up leaves into the barrel. 

6. Add the sugar cane shoots in to the barrel and mix 

again. 

7. Mix the fertilizer composition once every 3 days 

8. The liquid fertiliser can be used after 21 days. 

How to use 

Mix 1 litre of liquid fertiliser with 6 litres of water (1:6) 

and apply the liquid mix once a week. 

h 

zOraganic 

f 

5. 

Pest Control 

Water (6l) 

Solution (1l) 


Pest control interventions are not required up until about a year 

and a half after commencing organic cultivation. This is due to 

the fact that the beneficial creatures combat the harmful ones. 

For example, snails are picked off by coucals, while il messas 

are consumed by dragon flies. Moreover, instead of using toxic 

chemical repellents, organic alternatives made using local herbs 

and spices can be utilised until these beneficial insects visit the 

plants. Methods for concocting these are described below. 

Similarly, some plants act as insect 

repellents, and these can be 

grown alongside the principal 

crop to deter pests. Examples 

include planting a few coriander plants 

with chili, or planting wild ginger with brinjals. 

5.1 Growing Plants that 

are a Natural Deterrent 

5.2 Margosa 

(Neem) Seed Solution 

Take 40-50g of carefully cleaned Margosa seeds and crush them into a fine 

powder. Add one litre of water and mix well. Place the mixture in a clay pot, cover 

it with a cloth, and leave it in a dark room for 12-24 hours. Then, filter the mixture 

well and mix in soap water. On a dry evening, spray this mixture on/around your 

plot. This will eliminate insects that attack the external 

parts of the plant (leaves, flowers, fruit) and will 

not affect the plant or soil negatively. 

The smell or taste of certain plants discourages insects. These could include 

herbs such as basil, coriander, dill, fennel, peppermint, spearmint and citronella 

grass which are also of practical use. 

5.3 Margosa (Neem) Juice 

In a clay pot, mix 1kg-2kg of Margosa leaves in three litres of water. 

Cover the opening and place in a dark room for three days. 

Filter and mix with soap water and spray as 

desired. This will also eliminate insects that 

attack the external parts of the 

plant and keep flies, 

cockroaches, fleas and 

other similar 

insects away. 


5.4 Margosa (Neem) + Cinnamon 

+ Garlic mixture 

5.6 Setting up an 

Insect Trap 

Mix 2tsp of margosa oil, 2tsp of cinnamon oil, 

5-6 cloves of crushed garlic into two litres 

of water. Filter the mixture to remove 

the pieces of garlic and mix it with 

soap water and spray as desired. 

You will need 

d 

d 

d 

d 

Yellow polythene (bright yellow attracts insects) 

Wooden plank pieces 

Grease 

An oil lamp 

5.5 Kerosene oil + Cinnamon + 

Garlic Mixture 

Lightly crush 250g of garlic and 250g-300g of cinnamon leaves. Mix this 

in approximately 400ml of kerosene oil and leave for 24 hours. Mix ¼ of a 

bar of soap in one litre of water and then add to the kerosene 

mixture. Due to its high potency, take 2tsp of the mixture and 

dilute it with another litre of water and spray as desired. 

Using organic manure and other naturally-sourced plant 

nutrients can also help in cutting back on the use 

of fertilisers. 

Grease 

Yellow polythene 

Light source 

Wooden frame 

Water 

How to 

1. Build a box frame with four legs or a stand using the wooden planks. 

2. Wrap the box with yellow polythene. 

3. Apply grease on the outside of the yellow polythene. 

4. Place the structure at the centre of your garden. 

Carefully placing an oil lamp or a lantern inside the trap box is optional. 



a 

3. 

Responsible 

Garden Maintaining 

u

6.1 Water Conservation in 

Your Home Garden 

6.2 Water Saving Tips for 


Maintaining a home garden can be a rewarding hobby and a simple and 

economical means of growing your own herbs, fruits and vegetables. 

Regular watering is essential to the health of plants. However, it is important 

to bear in mind that plants must be given the right amount of both water and 

nutrients to thrive, and over-watering your plants can be as damaging as underwatering 

them. 

Over-watering is a waste of a valuable natural resource and adds an unnecessary 

cost to household utility expenses. 

d 

d 

d 

Learn about the specific water needs of your plants 

and water them accordingly as requirements vary 

significantly. This is useful in choosing where to plant certain 

varieties and can help you group plants according to their watering needs. 

Adjust your watering in line with seasonal weather patterns. Where possible 

choose native plant varieties which are suited to the climate and require 

little upkeep. 

Make sure to water around the base of the plant as water is absorbed by the 

roots. Note that watering a little and often does not help with plant growth 

since the water must be absorbed into the soil. Deep but less frequent 

watering benefits plants more. 

d 

Choose a watering can or hose pipe with a low-pressure sprinkler nozzle to 

water your plants to reduce wastage. 

d 

Water your garden before 8am in the morning or after 4pm in the evening 

to minimize loss through evaporation. 

d 

Use compost with household and garden waste including grass clippings 

and leaf litter which fertilises the plants and helps the soil retain moisture. 

d 

Weed control is also essential to ensure that the water and nutrients 

added to the soil benefit the 

intended plants. 


6.3 Beautification 

Ornamental Home Gardening 

Vegetables, fruits, herbs and spices with decorative leaves can not only benefit a 

household in terms of nutrition and income, but can also lend themselves to beautifying 

outdoor spaces. There are many such plants with ornamental leaves, flowers, fruits and 

pods. For example, mukunuwenna (sessile joy weed / dwarf copperleaf ) has colourful 

dark green, light green, red, and yellow varieties. Similarly, types of thampala (Amaranth), 

cinnamon, asamodagam (carom), ginger, velmi (liquorices) and other herbs, hathawariya 

(wild asparagus), kapparawalliya (country borage), spinach, types of leeks, cabbage and 

salad leaves can serve a decorative purpose. This can 

be a very satisfying and beneficial experience 

for the gardener.

6.4 Promoting Biodiversity 

Conservation Within the 

Home Garden 

A list of nectar and host plants is given below. Pick from this list to plant in your 

butterfly garden. 

Botanical Name 

Sinhala Name 

How to Create a Butterfly Garden 

Many natural butterfly habitats have been lost 

due to human activities like building and roads, 

cultivation, and deforestation. Creating a butterfly 

garden is an easy way to invite butterflies and spot 

them right from your doorstep. You are also helping 

in the conservation of these beautiful creatures. 

It is as easy as growing the right kind of plants to which 

they are attracted to increase the number and diversity of 

butterflies in your garden. 

Step 1 

First, find out what type of butterflies appear in your neighborhood. 

This will help you determine the Butterfly Nectar Plants and Butterfly 

Host Plants, which will be useful for you when creating your butterfly 

garden. 

Step 2 

After you get an idea of what types of butterflies are found in 

your neighborhood, choose the site of your butterfly garden 

carefully. Butterflies like sunny places. Therefore, look for a relatively 

sunny spot with some shelter as your garden space. 

Step 3 

Carefully select plants for your garden. Butterflies need two types of 

plants to complete their life. Most adult butterflies feed on flower 

nectar for nutrition. Host plant or larval food sources help 

keep butterflies in the garden for longer periods. 

Host plants, also called feeding plants, are the major 

determinant of butterflies since these are the feeding 

plants for butterflies in their larva stage. 

01 Dredge solubilise wÕ=K 

02 Calotropis gigantean Jrd 

03 Aistolochia indica imai| 

04 Abrus precatorius U,s| je,a 

05 Aegle marmelos fn,s 

06 Annona muricata wfkdaod 

07 Flacoutia Indica wfkdaod 

08 Bamboo Ng 

09 Nerium oleander lfkare 

10 Asclepia curassavica lka l=U, 

11 Palm (Red Palm) 

12 Palm (cane Palm) 

13 Bryophyllum calycinum wlalmdk 

14 Cassia fistula weye, 

15 Mangifera indica wU 

16 Litsea glutinosa fndaUq 

17 Crataeva religiosa ,qKq jrK 

18 Flacourtia indica W.=/iaid 

19 Ixora sp. (Red yellow) udoka 

20 Ixora coccinea r;au,a 

21 Limonia acidissima osjq,a 

22 Citrus Limon foys fodvï$ f,uka 

23 Murraya koenigii lrmsxpd 

24 Sesbania grandiflora l;=re uqrex.d 

25 Cassia didymobotrya we;af;dar 

27 Cassia tora meks f;dar 

27 Mussaenda uqiajekak 

28 Cassia momosoides f;dar 

29 Passiflora foetida oe,angq 

30 Cycass spp Indian Madu 

31 Cycass spp Uvq 

32 Ficus hispida fldg lsUq, 

33 Cinnamomum l=re÷ 

zeylanicum 


List of nectar plants (Scientific Name and the Common name) for the butterfly 

Garden 

Botanical Name Sinhala Name 

01 Stachytarpheta n¨kl=g 

02 Walidda antidysenterica Boao 

03 Heliotropium indicm we;afyd~ 

04 Elephantopus scaber we;a wä 

05 Catharanthus roseus ñkSu,a 

06 Zinnia Iskshd 

07 Duranta repens 

08 Pentas lanceolata 

09 Tagetes patula oyia fm;s 

10 Murraya peniculata 

11 Clerodendrum Mskak 

infortunatum 

Step 4 

After studying the list of host and nectar plants, decide 

which plants are suitable for your garden. Then sketch a 

plan. The following example, created using plants from 

the lists above, may be helpful. This sample butterfly 

garden has a large variety of host plants. 

Butterflies are sensitive to pesticides and can even 

be harmed by chemicals meant to control other 

insect species so don’t use pesticides in your 

garden. If you have rich plant diversity in 

your garden, you most probably won’t 

need to use pesticides. 


s 

Crop 

Life Cycles 

r 

Species/Family Life span of the crop Yala season Maha Season 

Solanaceae 

Heeen Miris 

150 days 

Maalu miris/ Capsicum 150 days 

Kochchi/Crow Chilli 150 days 

Thakkali/ Tomato 135 days 

Wambatu/ Brinjal 130-140 days 

Elabatu/egg plant 130-140 days 

Solanum melongena 

Leguminosae 

Bonchi/Beans 

90 days 

Phaseolus vulgaris 

Maa Karal/ Long beans 90 days 

Vigna unguiculata 

Dambala/Kiridambala 90-120 days 

Winged bean 

Psophocarpus tetragonolobus 

Alanga 

90 days 

Phaseolus vulgaris 

Cowpea/black 

90 days 

eyed pea 

Vignaunguiculata unguiculata 

Mung/Green Gram 75 days 

Vigna radiata 

Rata kaju/Pea nuts 110 days 

Arachis hypogaea 

Cucubetaceae 

Labu/Bottle Gourd 120-150 days 

Lagenaria siceraria 

Wattakka/Pumpkin 120-150 days 

Cucurbita maxima 

Puhul/wax Gourd 120-150 days 

Benincasa hispida 

Watakolu/Ridged 120 days 

Gourd 

Luffa acutangula 

Mar Apr May Jun 

Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb


Cucubetaceae 

Kakiri/melon 

Cucumis melo 

Pipinya/Cucumber 

Cucumis sativus 

Pathola/Snake Gourd 

Cucumis sativus 

Karawila/Bitter Gour 

Momordica charantia 

120 days 

130 days 

100 days 

100 days 

Malvaceae 

Bandakka/Okra 

90 days 

Abelmoschus esculentus 

Brassicaceae 

Gowa/Cabbage 120-150 days 

Brassica oleracea 

Athu Gowa 

120-150 days 

Mal Gowa/ Cauliflower 100 days 

Brassica oleracea Botrytis 

cultivar group 

Rabu/Radish 

60 days 

Raphanus sativus 

Nocole 

70 days 

Chenopodiaceae 

Niwithi/Spinach 30-50 days 

Spinacea oleracea 

Compositae/asteraceae 

Salada kola/Salad leaves 20-30 days 

lettuce Lactuca sativa 

Lamiaceae 

Minchi/Mint 

1 year 

Mentha spicata 

Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb 


Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb 

Amaranthaceae 

Thampala/Red 

20-25 days 

Amaranthus 

Amaranthus oleraceus 

Mukunuwanna 

1 year 

Alternanthera sessilis 

Rutaceae 

Karapincha/curry leaves days 

Murraya koenigii 

Graminaceae/Graminae/Poaceae 

Bada Iringu/ corn 115 days 

Zeamays indentata 

Idal Iringu 

140 days 

Apiaceae 

Gotukola 

1 year 

Centella asiatica 

Carrots 

100 days 

Daucus carota 

Zingiberaceae 

Inguru/ginger 

20-30 days 

Zingiber officinale 

Kaha/Turmeric 

1 year 

Curcuma longa 

Euphorbiaceae 

Mayiyokka/Cassava 1 year 

Manihot esculenta 

Erevuceae/Araceae 

Kohila 

5 years 

Lasia spinosa 

Kiri Ala 

8 - 10 years 



Cannaceae 

Buthsarana 

Canna indica 

Asteraceae 

Artichoke 

Cynara scolymus 

Aralontha 

Aizoaceae 

Sarana 

Trianthema portula 

Ganda-pala 

Convolvuaceae 

Kankung/ 

water spinach 

Ipomoea aquatica 

Mukunuwenna 

Alternanthera sessilis 

Anacardiaceae 

Ambarella 

Spondias cytherea 

Caricaceae 

Gas labu/Papaw 

Carica papaya 

Musaceae 

Kehel/Banana 

Musa Cultivars 

Allium 

Neera Leeks 

Lasia spinosa 

Red Onions 

Wanduru mala 

6-8 months 

6-8 months 

6-8 months 

20 days 

30 days 

180days 

1 year 

180 days 

3 years 

330 days 

180 days 

105 days 

4-5 months 

Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb

A Guide to Eco-Friendly Home Gardening

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