How One Singaporean’s Green Thumb Transformed a Shared Space
Gardening has become a beloved pastime in Singapore, and Afiq Omar stands out with his unique green endeavour. Along the corridor of his HDB flat, Afiq has cultivated a lush, misty garden of 57 plants, aptly named “Gardens by the HDB Corridor.” His videos showcasing this serene oasis on TikTok, complete with purple grow lights and misting effects, have captivated many viewers.
Initially, Afiq’s journey started with a single philodendron kept indoors. However, challenges with light conditions led him to relocate his plants outdoors, recreating a tropical, terrarium-like environment. His completely DIY set-up includes metal racks, LED grow lights, and automated humidifiers. These innovations maintain optimal conditions for his plants, even in his absence.
The garden has evolved beyond aesthetics—it fosters community interaction. While some TikTok users speculated about potential inconveniences, Afiq shared that his neatly organised garden has instead strengthened ties with neighbours. Frequent conversations and visits from neighbours and passers-by have turned the garden into a focal point of camaraderie.
Even officers from the National Environment Agency (NEA) have approved the garden after inspecting it for stagnant water and ensuring ample walking space. Afiq’s creative gardening has not only beautified the corridor but also inspired many, both locally and online, as a testament to how hobbies can bring communities closer together.
