The 'Arka Vertical Garden' scheme aims to boost home-grown organic vegetables in Kerala by providing subsidized vertical Read More... garden units, helping families achieve food security. Read less
Details
Looking for ways to grow fresh, pesticide-free vegetables right at home? The Arka Vertical Garden scheme by the State Horticulture Mission-Kerala can help you do just that, especially if you live in an urban or peri-urban area with limited space.
This scheme promotes user-friendly vertical garden structures, originally designed by ICAR - Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bengaluru, under the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY). It's all about making families self-sufficient in growing safe-to-eat vegetables, ensuring everyone has access to healthy food.
The Arka Vertical Garden is for residents of Kerala who want to make the most of their living space to cultivate their own vegetables. It's perfect for those looking to ensure their family has a steady supply of nutritious, chemical-free produce.
In today's fast-paced world, having access to fresh, healthy food is crucial. This scheme addresses that need by enabling people to grow vegetables even in small spaces, promoting nutritional security and a healthier lifestyle. Plus, it makes gardening accessible and manageable for many.
Objective
Benefits
Sources and references
The application process typically involves submitting your application along with the beneficiary contribution in advance through the online mode. Specific details and the official application link are usually provided by the State Horticulture Mission-Kerala. Stay updated through their official channels for the most current instructions.
State Horticulture Mission-Kerala
(Address and specific application links will be updated by the Mission)
What's the main goal of the vertical garden structure developed by ICAR?
The main goal is to help families become self-sufficient in growing their own safe vegetables. It ensures you have enough food and good nutrition right at home by making use of vertical space.
How much space do I need to set up this vertical garden?
You'll only need about one square meter of space to install the vertical garden structure. It's designed to be compact and efficient, making it ideal for homes with limited area.
Can I grow different types of vegetables in this Arka Vertical Garden?
Absolutely! You can grow a variety of vegetables like chilli, brinjal, tomato, bush cluster beans, and leafy greens such as palak, amaranthus, and coriander.
What is the total cost for one Arka Vertical Garden unit?
The complete cost for one unit of the Arka Vertical Garden structure is ₹22,100/-.
How much subsidy can I get for one vertical garden unit?
The scheme provides a subsidy of ₹15,525/- for each unit of the Arka Vertical Garden.
What is the beneficiary's share of the cost?
As a beneficiary, you will contribute ₹6,575/- for each unit of the Arka Vertical Garden.
When should I pay my contribution for the vertical garden?
Your contribution of ₹6,575/- per unit needs to be paid in advance when you submit your application, preferably through the online payment mode.
Which department is running the Arka Vertical Garden initiative?
This scheme is being managed by the State Horticulture Mission-Kerala as part of the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY).
What's the water tank capacity with the garden structure?
The structure includes a 25-liter water storage container at the top. It's connected to a drip irrigation system with micro tubes and drippers to water your plants effectively.
Can I move the vertical garden structure around?
Yes, the structure comes with wheels attached, making it easy to move the garden to different spots to get the best sunlight throughout the day.
What's special about the growing medium used in this garden?
This vertical garden uses a soilless planting medium, specifically 80 kilograms of enriched coir pith, which is provided with the unit. This is an eco-friendly and effective way to grow plants.
How are people chosen to receive these vertical garden units?
Beneficiaries are selected based on the order in which applications are received. Those who apply and submit their applications earlier are generally given priority.
Can this vertical garden be used for anything other than growing vegetables?
No, the structure is designed solely for growing vegetables as intended by the project. Using it for any other purpose might require you to refund the subsidy amount.
Will someone check on the garden after I receive it?
Yes, you should be prepared for periodic inspections by the State Horticulture Mission. This is to ensure the project is being implemented effectively and to monitor its progress.
How many vertical garden units can one person get?
Each beneficiary is eligible to receive only a single unit of the Arka Vertical Garden structure.
How many pots come with one vertical garden unit?
Each vertical garden unit is equipped with 16 pots of various shapes and sizes, arranged at 4 different height levels on the structure.
What types of seeds are included with the garden?
You will receive seeds for a variety of crops, including popular vegetables like spinach, chilli, palak, amaranthus, brinjal, and cluster beans, along with other suitable vegetables.
What are the key items that come with the vertical garden structure?
Each structure includes a 1 sq. meter base frame, central support, holders for 16 pots at 4 levels, 80 kg of enriched coir pith planting medium, seeds for various vegetables, plant nutrition and protection materials, a 25-liter water storage container, and a drip irrigation system.