Nurseries in Ranchi are currently witnessing a delightful surge in visitors as the city embraces the winter gardening season. Enthusiasts are flocking to these green spaces, drawn by a spectacular display of cold-weather blooms and a wide variety of seasonal plants that thrive in the cooler climate.
A Kaleidoscope of Winter Blooms
The nurseries are a riot of color, featuring flowers perfectly adapted to winter conditions. Popular choices include vibrant pansies, petunias known for their abundant flowering, stately dahlias, textured snapdragons, and fragrant sweet peas. The classic marigold continues to hold its own, beloved for its bright yellow and orange hues that add warmth to any garden.
Beyond annuals, gardeners are also exploring bulbs and flowering shrubs. Options highlighted by nursery owners include early bloomers like crocuses and snowdrops, long-flowering hellebores, and winter jasmine and camellias which typically bloom between December and March.
Expert Advice for a Thriving Winter Garden
Harsh Yadav, owner of Jharkhand Nursery, explained the appeal of specific plants. "Pansies and violas add vibrant colour during cooler months, while calendulas thrive in chilly weather," he said. "Snapdragons provide excellent height and texture, and sweet peas contribute both delicate blooms and a lovely fragrance."
The Jharkhand Biodiversity Board (JBB) identifies this period as ideal for sowing winter-blooming flowers. Plants sown now can flower continuously from December through March. For success, the JBB recommends that winter flowers receive four to five hours of direct sunlight daily, along with adequate but controlled watering and balanced nutrition. They suggest placing potted plants on rooftops or terraces to maximize sun exposure.
Sustainable Practices for Healthy Growth
Sanjeev Kumar, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Executive Director of the Wasteland Board, emphasized sustainable care techniques. "Organic mulching using dry leaves, straw or coconut husk helps retain crucial soil moisture," he advised. He also stressed the importance of regular pruning, weed removal, and light loosening of topsoil to support robust plant growth.
In line with eco-friendly gardening, the JBB advocates for organic fertilisers and natural pest control. They shared a simple, homemade solution to enhance flowering: soak 50 grams each of mustard seeds and lemon balm in two litres of water overnight, then spray the mixture. For managing pests, an effective organic spray can be made by mixing 5 ml of cow urine per litre of water.
This seasonal gardening boom not only beautifies homes across Ranchi but also promotes a sustainable and rewarding hobby, connecting people with nature during the pleasant winter months.
