To create the 50 cm deep lotus pond, Tung collaborated with the architect to address structural considerations like waterproofing and storm protection, crucial for a rooftop exposed to the elements.

Growing up in the countryside of Nghe An province instilled in Tung a deep love for nature. Unwilling to be confined within the walls of his urban apartment, he specifically chose a 30th-floor unit with a rooftop terrace, providing ample space to create his vision.

The 150 m2 rooftop was divided into two distinct areas with the help of an architect. One side features a scenic landscape with a flower garden, fish pond, and a relaxing area for dining and coffee. The other side is dedicated to a vegetable garden, fruit trees, and chickens. The total investment exceeded 3 billion VND, covering transportation, construction, and landscaping.

Due to his busy schedule, Tung relies on automated solutions for his plants, birds, and fish, utilizing pumps and smart garden technology. These systems allow for timed watering and adjustments based on weather conditions.

The entire garden took 8 months to complete, after which Tung continuously adapted the plants to suit the changing seasons. Drawing on his rural upbringing, he cultivates a variety of vegetables like Malabar spinach, water spinach, mustard greens, gourds, squash, and tomatoes, alongside fruit trees. He prioritizes fruit trees that bear year-round and supplements them with seasonal vegetables. Lotus flowers, which bloom in the summer and autumn, add a touch of elegance.

Tung also researched and installed an automatic irrigation system.

"From the beginning, I was committed to using 100% organic methods for safe and healthy produce," Tung said. His biggest challenge has been pest control.

He spent months researching organic solutions, experimenting with chili-garlic water, tobacco infusions, neem oil, and wood vinegar. However, not all methods proved effective, leading to the loss of several plants.

Reinforcing the rooftop for waterproofing, flood prevention, and wind resistance doubled the cost compared to a ground-level project. Transporting soil, fertilizer, and equipment to the 30th floor also presented logistical challenges, requiring the use of elevators and manual carrying.

For the lotus pond, maintaining stable water levels and quality is paramount. Tung regularly adds nutrient-rich mud and controls algae, snails, and other pests. These efforts ensure the lotus flowers bloom on schedule, with healthy leaves and steady growth.

The garden typically provides enough fruits and vegetables for his family. He constantly rotates short-term crops to maintain variety. "I don't use any chemical fertilizers or pesticides," Tung shared. "It's a labor of love."

Once the garden was established, he turned his attention to raising pigeons. He started with two pairs, but neighboring pigeons joined the flock, bringing the total to 20.

Tung finds solace in his rooftop garden, a welcome escape from the stresses of daily life. Beyond providing fresh produce, it offers a balance between his technology-driven work and hands-on gardening, reducing his screen time.

"This space brings a sense of freshness, coolness, and greenery amidst the urban landscape," he reflects.

Ngoc Ngan