International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development

India's projected population of 2.0 billion by 2050 poses challenges to food and energy resources, exacerbated by rapid urbanization and farmland conversion. Controlling population growth is gradual, making addressing immediate food needs crucial. Urban agriculture, particularly terrace gardening, emerges as a positive solution on unused urban spaces. This health-conscious practice helps meet urban food demand, eases pressure on traditional agriculture, and promotes environmental benefits and biodiversity preservation.

The study, utilizing an ex-post facto design, focused on Telangana, specifically Hyderabad, Warangal, and Karimnagar, due to significant terrace gardening prevalence. Proportionate random sampling included 60 respondents from Hyderabad and 30 each from Karimnagar and Warangal. Data collected through pre-tested interviews underwent coding for statistical analysis, revealing distinct categories of terrace gardening knowledge: 52.50% high, 35.83% medium, and 11.67% low expertise. Higher education levels indicated increased awareness of organic food, contributing to a deeper understanding of terrace gardening.

The survey unveiled diverse expertise among respondents in terrace gardening. High awareness levels were observed in seepage proofing (89.17%) and potting mixture ingredients (88.33%). Respondents demonstrated knowledge in suitable crops (86.67%), plant nutrition management (85.00%), and compost preparation (84.17%). Notably, 83.33% exhibited skills in pest and disease management.

However, awareness gaps were identified, with 54.17% unaware of terrace gardening layout and 53.33% unfamiliar with crop rotation benefits. Additionally, 52.50% lacked knowledge of seedling trays, and 50.83% were unaware of drainage hole uses. Furthermore, 47.50% lacked understanding in protecting plants from harsh weather conditions. These findings underscore strengths and areas for improvement in respondents' terrace gardening knowledge and practices.