In busy cities, several residents are taking to terrace gardening.

Likewise, C V Varghese, a vegetable farmer in Wayanad, Kerala, has come up with an innovative solution to grow potatoes, carrots, tomatoes and other vegetables in limited spaces.

His innovative ‘vertical mesh tower method’ helps him reap great benefits. Here’s how he did it:

Making the mesh tower

Step 1: Purchase a metal mesh wire that has two-inch gaps and is five feet tall. Step 2: Cut the mesh in 1.5-metre width and paint it if you wish.

Step 3: Bend the mesh to form a cylindrical shape or tower and bind the ends together using plastic zip ties.

Layering the tower

Before you begin adding the elements of the potting mix, such as the dry leaves, cut a PVC pipe with a diameter of 0.75 inches and a length of five feet.

Make holes with a 3.5-inch gap between them to release water. Place this inside the tower and then start layering the soilless mediums.

Step 1: Add four or five inches of dry hay. This layer will prevent the potting mix from leaking below.

Step 2: Then add 50cms of dry leaves. Use a long stick or pipe to shove the leaves and pack them together.

Step 3: Add a layer of wet cow dung. Step 4: Prepare a dry mix of goat dung, dry cow dung, neem cake, and some organic soil mix.

Step 5: Add the dry mix layer. Then, place a few sprouted potato cuttings, evenly spaced in a circular order.

Step 6: Add dry mix again to cover the potatoes. Step 7: Repeat the process by adding more layers of dry leaves, cow dung, dry mix and potato sprouts.