Species diversity and structural characteristics of high altitudinal home gardens in New Tehri district of Garhwal region, Uttarakhand

Homegardens, among the oldest forms of traditional farming, offer a wide range of benefits to mankind. This study examines the structural and floristic diversity of homegardens in New Tehri, Garhwal region, Uttarakhand. Using semi-structured interviews and field-level species identification, we explored the species diversity and structural composition of high-altitude homegardens across ten villages. Homegarden owners were chosen through a 40% sampling of village households, and gardens were categorized into small, marginal, and large based on their sizes. The vertical stratification of these gardens and the typical placement of trees and vegetables was also observed. Our findings reveal that the diversity of species and structural elements in hilly homegardens plays a vital role in enhancing food security and the standard of living for local communities. These gardens, with their array of plant species and unique structural components, are essential for sustainable living in hilly regions. By maintaining traditional practices and incorporating diverse plant species, homegarden owners contribute significantly to the resilience and well-being of their communities. This study underscores the importance of preserving and promoting homegardens as multifunctional agricultural systems that support both ecological balance and human livelihoods.