For Tran Thi Tuyet Nhung, a mother of three living in Ho Chi Minh City, the changing of the seasons is marked not only by festivals, but by what grows in her rooftop garden.

This autumn, Nhung planted an entire patch of pumpkins on the roof of her home in Binh Tri Dong Ward, as a handmade gift for her children to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival and Halloween.

“I love growing pumpkins in the fall,” she told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper.

“I was determined to do this so my kids could have something meaningful for Mid-Autumn and Halloween.”

The pumpkins she selected—a bright orange variety imported from the United States—grew quickly.

Within a month, nearly 50 pumpkins formed, hanging from a trellis her husband helped build on the 100-square-meter rooftop.

A garden above the city

Nhung began gardening four years ago, starting with basic leafy greens grown in styrofoam containers to feed her family.

Over time, her hobby has evolved into a rooftop farm where she now grows tomatoes, watermelons, grapes, squashes and bitter melons—depending on the season and her children’s tastes.

“It’s hard work, especially carrying soil upstairs and mixing it all by hand,” she said.

“But it’s a way to relax and spend time with my family.”

Her youngest child is in third grade.

During this year’s Mid-Autumn Festival, the children compared the pumpkins to traditional lanterns.

They have already made plans to dress up for Halloween and play beside the vines.

“Many people ask to buy the fruits and vegetables,” Nhung said.

“But I don’t sell any of them.

“They're just for the family—and for giving to friends.”

More than just food

While the garden provides a steady source of clean, homegrown produce, Nhung said the biggest benefit is how it brings her family closer.

Between running her fashion business and caring for the plants, she said the garden has become a peaceful retreat and a shared project for everyone.

“I feel good knowing the food is safe for my kids,” she said.

“And more than that, it gives them a space to play and learn—and it gives us memories.”