Regions: east

A hardy monsoon spreader with long traditional use, easy to grow and valuable for small insects.

The household holy basil — thrives in a pot, keeps pests down and brings pollinators to a balcony.

A whole pharmacy in a tree, and the source of the safest home pest spray. Needs ground space — not a balcony…

Flowers best when slightly starved and thirsty — the classic mistake is watering it too well.

Needs space, sun and a lot of feeding, and gives back a bunch plus leaves for cooking.

A climber that will take over a boundary wall given a chance. Grow from a stem cutting pushed into moist soil.

Grows in a bottle of water on a windowsill and keeps going. Best first plant for a child or a new gardener;…

Upright, architectural and forgiving of dark corners. Releases oxygen at night, which makes it a favourite for bedrooms.

The most satisfying pot crop there is. Stake it early, feed every fortnight, and pinch side shoots so the plant puts its…

Sow thickly in a wide shallow tray and snip with scissors. Rub the seed between your palms before sowing to improve germination.