ATGLife Mates: Featuring Simran
Previous PostMeet Simran, the next gardener in our ATGLife Mates series. What began with a few succulents on a PG windowsill has grown into a full-blown love for plants. It has now become her sanctuary and way of life.
Here’s her Instagram Handle - @emergingplanter_
How did you start gardening?
I began gardening during my time in a small PG, with just a few succulents on my windowsill. Over time, especially during the pandemic, plants became my emotional anchor. From nurturing leafy greens to rare aroids, gardening slowly transformed into a deep passion - and now, a way of life.
What are some of your favourite plants to grow in the garden?
I adore growing houseplants like Syngonium Chiapense, Monstera Thai Constellation, Philodendron Paraiso Verde, Anthurium Hookeri and Epipremnum Pinnatum variegated. On my terrace garden, I love growing fruits, herbs, vegetables, and seasonal flowers like vinca, petunia, and cosmos. I have had great luck with Guava on my terrace. Hibiscus will always remain my favorite flower. I even got it tattooed on my arm. One of my most proud gardening moments has to be my first Hoya Callistophylla blooming.
What are some of the plants that you’ve not had as much success with?
I’ve struggled with ferns and Alocasias in Delhi-NCR's dry air, and orchids haven’t always rewarded me with blooms. Some exotic plants also didn’t take well to the extreme summer heat.
Are there any new plants on your wishlist?
Yes! I’d love to grow Cyrtosperma, more rare Alocasia, and experiment with some flower varieties like Tithonia or water lilies or some exotic and rare Thunbergias this season. I’m also eyeing compact citrus varieties for containers.
What would you like to say to our new gardeners?
Start small and stay curious. Plants teach patience, resilience, and joy in the simplest of ways. Don’t fear failure - each plant has something to teach you, even when it doesn’t thrive.
Any gardening hack you want to share with us?
Crushed neem leaves + water make a great natural pest repellent! Pinching the plants works great to make them bushier!
Any particular Instagram accounts you follow for inspiration?
Yes! I follow @haryali_by_cherie, @peepalbaba, @plantastic_sanni, and of course, AllThatGrows. I also share my own plant journey at @emergingplanter_ — my page is a reflection of my evolving terrace garden and indoor jungle.
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