Nidhi Singh

A young couple Nandu and Nidhi Singh based in Pune, run Nursery Live, a popular ecommerce one-stop-shop platform for all gardening related requirements.
With a vision to create greener spaces and make the Earth a healthier place to live in, it has attracted in a short span, over 45 lakh active garden lovers and a Facebook following of over seven lakh users.

Nidhi Singh, COO speaks passionately about all things green with A. Radhakrishnan.

How old a concept is gardening? Where was the world’s first garden created?

Gardening has been a part of human history for thousands of years. A way for humans to cultivate plants for food and other uses, it has evolved over time to include ornamental plants and flowers, vegetable gardens, etc.

The world’s first known garden was in Babylon, Iraq over 5,000 years ago, and it was called the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. One of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world, it was known for its beauty and engineering. 

Did you have a garden growing up? Your first memories?

Fortunately, yes. Watching new life sprout and grow is an incredible, indescribable feeling, especially when I see a new flower bud blooming.

My earliest memories are of playing in and assisting my mother in her passion, caring for the 150 plants growing in our house garden. She imparted her gardening wisdom through practical lessons. 

What elements are part of your dream garden?

It would have a variety of elements promoting peace, tranquility, and beauty, and include flowering plants, shrubs and trees — roses, peonies, and cherry blossoms. A small pond surrounded by water lilies, and a small waterfall would be a bonus.

A vegetable garden would provide fresh produce for cooking, and a greenhouse for year-round growing. A comfortable seating area for enjoying the outdoors, would be a perfect place to relax and read a book. A winding path would provide a peaceful place for a morning walk, and a fire pit for cosy evening gatherings. Overall, a peaceful escape and a place for all the senses to enjoy.

Please tell us the genesis of Nursery Live? 

After some hands-on experience in software development at TCS, I felt the need to do something impactful. Thus in 2010, along with my husband Nandu, also a techie, we started a software company, where we developed projects outsourced from the U.K, U.S, and Canada.

Somewhere in 2014, while setting up my terrace garden, I realised that developing a garden was not as simple as it seemed. You need the right plants, the right tools, and expert advice.  Exploring options to create a hassle-free garden, I realised that other garden lovers sailed in the same boat.

After doing some market analysis, we decided to create a platform to help make gardening experience smooth. Thus, Nursery Live was born. As Co-founder and COO, I look after catalogue, domain, and customer experience, while Nandu as CEO is responsible for marketing, technology and team building.
In the last seven years, we have connected with 45 lakh garden lovers and have served over 12 lakh customers, pan India.

What does a garden teach you?

A garden can teach one a variety of valuable life lessons and skills. Firstly, it teaches patience and the value of hard work as one waits for seeds to grow into beautiful flowers or bountiful crops. Secondly, it teaches about responsibility and the importance of caring for and maintaining the garden.

Thirdly, it can teach about the interconnectedness of all living things and the delicate balance of nature. Furthermore, it can also provide an opportunity to learn about horticulture and the science behind plant growth.

Overall, a garden can be a place of learning, growth and reflection, and provide a space for individuals to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the world around them.

Essential skills a gardener should have?

Firstly, they should have knowledge of plants, including their growth habits, requirements for sunlight and water, and how to care for them.

Secondly, they should have good planning and organisational skills, as well as the ability to design and layout a garden effectively.

Thirdly, they should have strong attention to detail, including the ability to identify and treat plant problems such as pests or diseases. They should also have manual dexterity and physical stamina for tasks such as digging, planting, and pruning.

Additionally, they should be able to effectively communicate and work with others, including clients, coworkers and suppliers. 

What is the best way to turn a flat balcony into a beautiful garden space?

This takes careful planning and creative thinking. Firstly, consider the amount of sunlight and wind the balcony receives and choose plants accordingly. Container gardening is ideal for balconies, and you can choose from a variety of pots, hanging baskets, and wall-mounted planters. 

Secondly, create a focal point, such as a small fountain or a sculptural piece, to draw the eye. Additionally, use a variety of plants with different textures, heights, and colours to create interest. To maximise space, consider vertical gardening and incorporate climbing plants on trellises or wall-mounted planters. 

Finally, incorporate comfortable seating and lighting to make the balcony an inviting and relaxing space. 

Which plants work best in pots? How important is fertilisation? 

Many plants can be grown successfully in pots, making it a great option for those with limited garden space or those who want to add some greenery to a patio or balcony.

Some popular choices include:

Herbs: Herbs such as basil, mint, and thyme are well-suited to growing in pots and can be used in cooking or for their fragrant oils.

Succulents: These low-maintenance plants are well-suited to growing in pots and can add interesting texture and colour to a container garden.

Vegetables: Container gardening is a great option for growing vegetables such as tomatoes, lettuce, and peppers.

Ferns: Ferns are well-suited to growing in pots and can add a lush, tropical feel to a container garden.

Bamboo: Bamboo is a great option for adding height and interest to a container garden and can also be used for privacy or as a screen.

When choosing plants for pots, it is important to consider their light and moisture requirements, as well as the size of the pot and the growing conditions in your area.

Fertilisation is essential for healthy plant growth, providing essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It should be based on the specific needs of plants and the soil and growing conditions. Over-fertilisation can damage plants, so it’s crucial to follow recommended guidelines. Using organic fertilisers, such as compost, can also improve soil health and provide a slow-release source of nutrients. 

How often should soil be replaced? Why is well-drained soil so crucial for plant health? 

Soil replacement is important for maintaining optimal growing conditions for plants. Vegetable gardens typically need soil replacement every 2-3 years and flower beds every 4-5 years.

Poor growth or compacted, nutrient-deficient soil may indicate it’s time to replace the soil. This also helps control pests and diseases. It also ensures plants have access to necessary nutrients for growth.

Well-drained soil is crucial for plant health because it prevents waterlogged roots, which can lead to root rot and ultimately kill the plant. When soil does not drain properly, water accumulates and suffocates roots, causing them to rot. Adequate drainage allows oxygen to reach the roots, essential for healthy plant growth. Moreover, poorly drained soil can also cause excess salts to accumulate, which can be toxic to plants.

What about pest control and plant diseases in gardens? 

Pest control and plant disease management are important aspects of maintaining a healthy garden. Pests such as insects, mites, and snails can cause significant damage, while diseases such as fungus and bacteria can also harm or kill plants.

To prevent pestilence and plant diseases, it is important to practice proper garden maintenance, such as cleaning up debris, providing adequate water and nutrients, and monitoring plants regularly for signs of distress. Additionally, using natural pest control methods, such as companion planting and encouraging beneficial insects, help

How often should I water a garden? The best time and how much? Would you recommend Drip irrigation? 

The frequency and amount of water needed for a garden depends on the specific plants, soil type, and weather conditions. Generally, most gardens need to be watered once or twice a week, with the amount varying on the type of plant and the weather conditions. It is important to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.

The best time to water a garden is early morning or late afternoon, when temperatures are cooler and there is less evaporation. Drip irrigation, which delivers water slowly and directly to the roots, is a highly effective method. 

How much sun does a garden need?

It depends on the specific plants being grown. Some plants, such as succulents and cacti, require full sun, while others, such as ferns and shade-loving perennials, prefer shade.

It is important to match the sun exposure needs of the plants to the conditions in the garden. A garden that receives full sun for six or more hours per day is considered to be in full sun, while a garden that receives less than four hours of direct sun per day is considered to be in full shade.

Compare gardening as a job and as a hobby?

Both offer opportunities for growth, creativity, and connection to nature.

Gardening as a job focuses on the commercial aspects, such as producing crops for sale, landscaping, and garden maintenance. It requires knowledge of horticulture, plant care, and business management.

Gardening as a hobby, on the other hand, is a personal pursuit focused on enjoyment and relaxation. It can range from growing a few houseplants to creating a large and diverse backyard garden. The focus is on personal fulfillment, learning, and self-expression through gardening. 

What advice would you give a new gardener?

Treat your plants like family members and show them love and care. They will reward you by becoming your loyal and ever-lasting friends. Begin with a small garden, plan carefully, be patient, and savour the joy it brings.

Nidhi can be contacted at nidhi@nurserylive.com
nurserylive.com