FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK

GEN Zee IS OUR BEST CHOICE

At times, do not we feel that we have done all that we could to make the climate change towards the worse, for our own survival and benefits?

And have we ever thought that if we humans, can do the damage, we also must be responsible to reverse it?

Those of us who have crossed half century mark in age have a humongous responsibility to educate the so-called Gen-Z and push them to do this reversal, the reason being that this generation and the following ones are going to face the brunt of the deteriorating situation, as far as environment is concerned. And being large in number and by channelizing their energies, they can also be drivers for change.

And their small steps can help in this.

Chasing a hype is one such example. If one of the peers change his cell phone to the latest one, rest all follow this and throw away their old sets, thus piling up of the e-waste.

People switch cars as a status symbol, thus adding to the huge waste.

Is it necessary to go for exquisite teak furniture, which needs so many old trees to be axed?

It is time we asks ourselves how are our decisions going to impact the society.

At times, the results may be obscured from the line-of-sight visions. Climate changes can also be the reason of deteriorated mental health of the people in many sections.

Ask those who have lost their homes, their fertile lands, and loved ones in floods, due to incessant rains. It is proven in a study that up to 54 % adults and 45 % children suffer depression after any natural disaster.

Remember that small changes done by each one of us has a cumulative effect.

Jai Hind.

GARDENING JOBS IN FEBRUARY

February also called Falgun or Basant is the first month of spring and is considered to be the King of all seasons. Nature wakes up in the form of new leaves on the trees and flower blossoms to feast our eyes. The sweet sound of cuckoo and fluttering of butterflies spellbound us. February is the month to enjoy the blooms and the winter garden with flowering annuals and shrubs. All annuals should be in full bloom by the end of this month.

JOBS THAT CAN BE DONE:

• Planting of new trees including fruit trees, shrubs and climbers can be done now.
• Cuttings of hibiscus, ficus, duranta ,clerodendron etc. can be planted too. It is the best time for softwood cuttings to be raised as new plants.
• Flowering Annuals in pots can be given liquid manure and regular caring will improve the quality of the flowers and plants.
• Don’t forget to remove dead flowers from plants.
• Pots which are root bound and require repotting can be done now.
• Adeniums & cactus can be repotted now
• It’s time for planting your spring and summer bulbs too.
• Portulacas and purslane cuttings can be raised by the end of this month.
• Coleus can be multiplied too now.
• Summer Flowers like Zinnia, cosmos, sunflowers, gomphrena, vinca can be sowed indoors in trays or cups.
• Vegetables like Cucumber, melon, bitter gourd, lady finger, lauki can be sowed too.
• If you want to start a water garden it is ideal time to plant water lilies and lotus is now. Buy bulbs or tubers of lotus and water lilies.
• Winter vegetables must have been harvested or producing well. Regular spray of clean water will be beneficial.
• Watch for pests as pests become too active in spring. Identify and treat accordingly.
• Chrysanthemums can be divided and potted in 3 in pots for next winter. When established pots can be kept in sunny positions.
• Empty pots or beds can be made ready for summer vegetables.
• If soil was infected or had any deficiency, take action now and treat accordingly. Soil can be disinfected by solarising or treating with trichoderma .You can spray formaldehyde on soil too. Rest for 2 weeks then do the plantations in the soil.
• Buy good seeds from reputable sources and treat the seeds before sowing with fungicide for 10 minutes.
• Use clean and solarised pots and soil.

HOW TO TAKE CARE VARIOUS BULBS??

1. AMARYLLIS: 
2. SOIL MIX: The preferred soil mix for amaryllis is high in organic matter such as two parts of loam soil to one part of perlite to one part of well rotted manure. If manure is not available, another source of organic matter, such as peat, leaf mold, composted bark or wood or compost, may be used.
3. POT SELECTION: The size of pot depends on the size of the bulbs. A space of approximately 2 inches between the bulb and the edge of the pot is desirable. In potting, place the bulb so that only about half of it is below the soil, with the upper part (pointed end) left exposed. Press the soil firmly around the bulb and water thoroughly. Do not water again until the roots are well developed as overwatering can lead to bulb rots. Only when the roots have become well established will the plants need more frequent watering.
4. AFTER CARE: After the flower bulb has emerged, an application of a balanced fertilizer at intervals of 10 days is helpful. A liquid or dry fertilizer can be applied and either inorganic or organic types are satisfactory for this plant.
5. SUNLIGHT: Plants need maximum sunlight.

• TUBEROSE:
• SOIL MIX:  Normal garden soil, sand, vermicompost/rotten cow dung manure in 40:30:30 ratio.
• SOWING METHOD: Place the bulb under soil. just leave the top nods over soil. Don’t cover the nodes with soil, otherwise will take a long time to sprout. Little water to just moist soil and keep in shade. The bulbs will sprout in 4-7 days. Keep the pot in the sun. Don’t over water. Try to keep soil just moist, not soggy. Water logging may rot bulbs.
• FERTILIZER :  After 1 month feed plants with any balanced liquid fertilizer like NPK 19:19:19 or 20:20:20 twice a month. If you wish to organic fertilizer then provide 4-5 days rotten mustard oil cake mix with water (dilute with 5 times water) twice a month. For better results give foliar spray with Epsom salt (1/2 tsp in 1 litre water) twice a month. Follow the process to get flowering in 55-60 days.
• SUNLIGHT: Plants need maximum sunlight.

• FOOTBALL LILY:
• It is also known with many other names like blood lily,blood flower,etc. It grows very well in Indian climate. Its blooms are big with red/pink spikes and yellow specks at the ends and lasts for about a week. The leaves are smooth and dark green in color, the plant grows to a height of 12 -18 inches.
• Plant the bulbs in spring with equal parts of loam or sandy soil and manure
• Keep spacing of up to 10 inches

• CURCUMA:
• Curcuma longa or turmeric is native to India .It bears beautiful flowers at the end of summer .It can be grown very well in balconies as it just requires 1 to 2 hrs of sunlight.

WHAT ELSE CAN BE PLANTED??

Ginger, Crinum lilies, Gloriosa Lily, Caladiums, Day lilies, Pineapple lilies, Hosta lilies, Costus etc.

   Happy Gardening!!

Rama Tyagi

tyagirama1@gmail.com

NATURE THROUGH LENS’S EYES

It has been our endeavor to bring you the best of gardening and nature in various forms. So, we planned to organise a PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST to see how our readers click. And the results are here to see.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

We are back again, with another brain-teaser for our readers. And remember, the winners get the prizes.

(Courtesy: Sugandha Singhania)

Across

(6) It occurs when the soil of some area is completely saturated with water

(7) drink made by putting herbs, seeds or leaves in hot water

(10) Best houseplant for the beginnersBamboo thrives well in this kind of soil

(12) Bamboo thrives well in this kind of soil

(13) Its infusion is excellent for controlling diabetes.

(15) The plant that will rule the year 2022

Down

(1) Helps the brain to retain more information

(2) Base design of Japandi

(3) Soil bacterium in dry or liquid form that can be toxic to certain insects

(4) Its infusion act as immunity booster

(5) It helps in reducing acidity

(8) Organically approved fungicide that can be used to combat fungal diseases like powdery mildew

(9) A chemical substance used to protect plants from infestation

(11) A rich source of low calorie, fibre, protein and antioxidants

(14) Protect plants from sunburn and help to reduce heat stress in plants

• Share the solved puzzle within 3 days of release of the issue and mail us the solved puzzle at our email id puzzle.hfsog@gmail.com. Also mention your address and contact number. Correct entries will be considered to declare the winners who will be chosen through lucky draw. The solved puzzle and winners will be announced in next issue.

• The Winner of Jan 2022 Flower puzzle is Mrs. Punam Tayal. Congratulations!! Your gift will reach to you soon.

VASANT PANCHAMI CELEBRATIONS

FAQs ABOUT BAMBOO PLANT

Ques1. What not to do with your Lucky Bamboo?

• Do not place your Lucky Bamboo in direct sun.
• Do not use tap water if your water is hard. Your Lucky Bamboo will do much better with distilled or purified water.
• Do not let your Lucky Bamboo dry out. Keep the roots covered with water at all times.
• Do not keep the water levels too high, covering the roots is fine.
• Do not place your Lucky Bamboo near a heating or cooling vent. Also, keep it away from any cold drafts.
• Do not let dust collect on the leaves because the pores need to breathe. Periodically clean the leaves with a brush, damp rag and/or spray off with water.

Ques2. Should Lucky Bamboo be in soil or water?

Either way is fine. It is most commonly sold to grow in water but people grow it in soil too. Bamboo thrives well in loamy and well drained soil. An equal proportion of sand, clay and soil will work the best. It will retain the moisture and at the same time prevent water-logging. Soil will help in necessary water retention and loamy clay will hold the nutrients.

Ques3. Can Lucky Bamboo grow in rocks?

Yes it can. It can be grown in rocks, pebbles & glass chips. They can cover the roots but make sure they don’t go too high up on the stalks. It’s good to wash them off every month or so to prevent slime from building up.

Ques4. Should yellow leaves be cut off from Lucky Bamboo plant??

Yes, the yellow leaves should be removed. If your plant is getting yellow leaves often, it could be that it’s getting too much sun, poor water quality or fertilizing is too much.

Ques5. Why do Lucky Bamboo stalks turn yellow? Can they turn green again?

There are quite a few reasons why the stalks of Lucky Bamboo turn yellow. One of the most common has to do with the water. It could be poor quality, not changed often enough or too much sun which causes algae to build up. A yellow stalk doesn’t turn back to green. It’s best to get it out of the arrangement.

Happy Gardening!!

Rama Tyagi

tyagirama1@gmail.com

ANNOUNCING THE EVENT WE WAIT FOR THROUGHOUT THE YEAR

“THE FLOWER SHOW

&

CHATKARE FOOD FEST 22″

We wish to announce the long awaited “THE FLOWER SHOW & CHATKARE FOOD FEST 22” being organised on 11, 12 & 13 Mar 2022.

So, book your dates.

We will soon share further details on various platforms.

INDIA CELEBRATES MAHASHIVRATRI

INDOOR PLANTS TRENDING IN 2022

                                                                                      (Compiled from internet)

• An indoor plant is a houseplant grown at indoor places like offices, houses etc. mainly for decorative purpose. They also act as air purifier and eliminate toxic particles in the air.
• They need appropriate sunlight, soil mix, moisture, temperature, humidity, fertilizer and correct pot to survive otherwise they die easily.
• Experts suggest the following that will trend in 2022:
  • Large Houseplants like Bird of paradise and Ficus Audrey will be trending.
  • Ficus Audrey belongs to the same family as fiddle leaf fig and can grow into a big tree.
  • One can opt for Ficus Triangularis or Sweetheart tree if don’t want very huge houseplants.
  • Plants like Rhaphidophora tetrasperma which is similar to Monstera Deliciosa will be most suitable climbing plant.
  • Orchids can too be used by giving them proper environment to survive. Water them thoroughly and let them dry out completely mimicking their natural environment of rainforest.
  •  Peace Lilies will be the best houseplant for the beginners.
  • Experts believe that ferns will rule year 2022. Australian Fern can work well if proper humid environment is created around it.
  • As per the experts, Ferns enjoy best in company so use variety of ferns to create beautiful view.  They like the humidity created when they are placed closed to each other.

HAPPY GARDENING!!

Sugandha Singhania

sugandhacpsinghania@gmail.com

JAPANDI: TRENDSETTING INTERIOR DESIGNING

(Compiled from internet)

• Japandi is a new emerging interior designing technique and is a perfect blend of modern Scandinavian design and Japanese design. The main focus is on being minimalistic which are aesthetically pleasing and are simultaneously functional.
• Japandi gives an elegant and calm look that focuses on clean lines, pale colors and bright rooms.
• Ample sunlight and plants is also a key feature of Japandi Designing.
• Natural materials, fibres and handmade decors are used efficiently to give the place a modern look with clean lines.
• For furniture one can use Rattan, wicker, cane, wood, bamboo etc.
• For textiles organic linen, velvet, muslin cloth and cotton can be used.
• For décor: terracotta, clay, glass, woods, plants etc. can be used.
• One of the essences of Japandi style is the ancient Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi, which is a way of life that values slow-living, contentment and simplicity, as well as the Scandinavian practice of hygge, which embraces comfort, coziness and well-being.
• Japandi blends the smooth, modern lines of Scandinavian design with the sleek, functional, elegance of the Japanese aesthetic.
• Consider colors with a gentle neutral feel, rather than pure whites. Opt for Flint or China Clay, which will create a warm and soft appearance. In place of bright colors, use muted greens and earthy clay tones such as Ambleside, sage Green and Lute or deep tones such as dock Blue and deep grey-green Pompeian Ash which will add depth to a Japandi design scheme. Absolute Matte Emulsion with its beautifully low sheen level or soft powdery distemper delivers the chalky paint finish suited to this natural, simple style.
• The other focus of this style is to be long lasting rather than one time use culture and be planet friendly.

HAPPY GARDENING!!

Sugandha Singhania

sugandhacpsinghania@gmail.com

PEST MANAGEMENT IN FEBRUARY

In all our years of gardening, there is one thing we know for sure–pests can find their way into our gardens. Experience has given us a few organic means of combating these scouting pests.

Some general tips to keep in mind:

• Controlling pest’s eggs will be easier and more productive than waiting until pests are mobile.
• Acting early can mean your efforts will reduce insecticide use
• Apply sprays that work on contact carefully, not broadly, and in the morning or evening when many insects are less active, allowing you to better target pests, while cooler temperatures often allow the product to work longer.
• Scout for pests regularly
• Ready-Made Organic Products and Concentrates
• Although these products are organic, they should be used with care and caution. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions on which pest and plants it is useful for.
•  How to apply, when to reapply, and any other guidelines.
• Some products cause pests to die immediately and others cause them to die over time; it helps to know what to expect.

Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) and B. thuringiensis var kurstaki are bacteria that kill caterpillar pests by disrupting their digestive system. It may take a few days for caterpillars to die, so don’t expect immediate results. Repeat applications may be necessary as new generations hatch.

It is helpful against tomato hornworm, cabbage loopers, cabbage worms, corn earworm (if mixed with vegetable oil and applied to silks), and cutworms (if mixed with moist bran and molasses and scattered over the surface of beds and other caterpillars). It comes in liquid or dry forms.

Copper compounds are useful for controlling certain types of fungus like

Mildews,  Anthracnose, Blight, and more.

• Diatomaceous earth is made up of the fossilised remains (powder) of diatomaceous earth diatoms (tiny aquatic organisms) that have turned to silica.
• Effective on  soft-bodied insects–like slugs, aphids, fleas, mites, and ants.
• Diatomaceous earth is very sharp,
• Causing them to dehydrate when they come in contact with it.
• Application
•  Diatomaceous earth can be applied to plants and on the soil around plants to create a protective barrier that deters and kills these soft-bodied pests.

Insecticidal Soap

• Insecticidal soap is a good complementary treatment to Bt or can be used on its own as a first line of defence.
• Insecticidal soap is a liquid spray that works best in direct contact with susceptible soft-bodied pests and insect eggs. Because it is effective only upon contact and washes off readily, there aren’t ongoing impacts to pests and beneficial insects after the spray has dried. Some insecticidal soaps are also labelled for use against powdery mildew on some plants.

Kaolin Clay

• Kaolin clay-based products are liquid or dust that can be mixed into a liquid and employed to prevent insect damage by creating a physical barrier between the pest and the plant. It is also used to protect plants from sunburn and help to reduce heat stress in plants. It is often effective against aphids and squash bugs.

Neem Extract

• Neem is an extract of the Indian Azadirachta indica tree’s seeds and leaves. It acts by smothering to prevent feeding and breeding. Results may take several days, and it will likely need to be reapplied. Neem is effective against many eggs, nymphs, and adult insect pests like aphids, mites, scale, leafhoppers, white flies, caterpillars, mites, mealybugs, thrips, and lawn grubs, including Japanese beetles. Neem is also effective against fungus and bacteria and can be found in liquid or dry forms.

Seaweed

• Seaweed (kelp) extract is packed with micronutrients and minerals along with some macronutrients.
• It can be used to boost plant health and boost resistance to pests, diseases, and stresses like drought or pest damage.
•  Use  as a foliar spray to help combat blossom end rot; however, note that calcium deficiency, which causes blossom end rot, is quite often caused by inconsistent moisture.
•  It can be found in a liquid or dry form; generally, the liquid form is better for a sprayer, as it is less likely to clog, and the powder can be incorporated into the soil.

Spinosad

• Spinosad is a soil bacterium in dry or liquid form that can be toxic to certain insects. Insects will not die immediately, so exercise patience and reapply as per product recommendation.

Sulphur

• Sulphur is another organically approved fungicide that can be used to combat fungal diseases like powdery mildew .

Compost Tea

• Compost tea is used for pest and disease prevention when applied as a root drench or fine foliage spray.
•  If you plan to use a sprayer, place aged compost in a cloth bag to contain the solids and prevent your sprayer from clogging.
•  Place the bag in a large bucket, and using one-part compost to five parts water, steep it in a warm place for 1 to 2 weeks, stirring regularly. Then remove the bag and put the liquid in a sprayer or watering can.

Garlic Hot Pepper Spray

• Effective on garden pests including aphids, leafhoppers, squirrels, caterpillars, birds, deer, vampires, and more.
• Use a spray blender to combine several chile peppers (fresh or dried), about a dozen garlic cloves, and about 2 cups of water.
• Let the mixture sit overnight and then strain in the morning so it won’t clog your sprayer.
• Add about 2 tablespoons of non-toxic, biodegradable soap to the concentrate.
•  Add a tablespoon of the concentrate to 16 ounces of water and put in the sprayer.
• Time to Spray :
• Spraying in the morning or evening helps to protect pollinators; less of the spray evaporates, and it helps ensure plants are not stressed or at risk of burning from the spray. Reapply after a rain and every 7 to 10 days as needed.

Milk spray

This treatment works great for powdery mildew. Dilute milk to 20-50% in water and add a couple of drops of non-toxic, biodegradable soap. The soap helps the spray stick to leaves, rather than rolling off. Apply weekly, spraying plants thoroughly for good coverage. Like many powdery mildew treatments, it is best to start this as a preventative action before plants are infected.

Solarization

• Soil solarization uses plastic sheeting to heat the top of the soil during hot summer months, which at high enough temperatures can kill many soil organisms, including those that cause disease, nematodes, weed seeds, and seedlings.
• One drawback to this method is that it will also kill beneficial organisms, so use with caution.

Wood Ash

Wood ashes can be used around plants to deter slugs and snails, which avoid crossing it. It will need to be reapplied after rain or watering.

Wood ash does raise soil pH, making soil more alkaline, so be cautious using it if your soil is already alkaline.

• Homemade/DIY Solutions
• When using homemade sprays, first test a small leaf area and wait 24 to 48 hours to observe if it causes any damage before applying further.

  Rama Tyagi

tyagirama1@gmail.com

LEAVES TELL THE TALE

• If the tips of the leaves are turning yellow, then more water is being poured into the pot.
•  Leaves are ok but hanging down like goat ears so definitely less water in the pot.
• The leaves have turned yellow and are falling so the plant is getting less sunlight.
• Leaves are turning yellow and branches are perfectly healthy so this is what happened due to weather change new leaves will come soon.
• The leaves have turned yellow overnight indicates wrong fertilizer or chemical pot.
• The tips of the leaves are like a burnt brown, so they are being fertilized more than necessary.
• Leaves are cut, so some worm is biting them.
•  Leaves are stained so fungus attacked.
• The plant is green but the leaves are turning, so there are small worms under the leaves.
• The plant is giving flowers but if it is dull then there is lack of magnesium.
• The leaves have yellow spots on them and have turned, so the leaves are infected with curl virus disease.
• The leaves of the plant have suddenly dried up; the roots of the plant have been eaten by a worm called white cloth.

HAPPY GARDENING!!

D. K. Sharma

             sharmadk.703@gmail.com

SOME INTERESTING FACTS

• Rain water contains Vitamin B12.
• Pineapple juice is five times more effective than cough syrup.
• Carrot contains 0% fat and is rich in fibre which helps keep blood sugar levels under control.
• Cucumber contains 96% water. It is low in calories but high in vitamins and minerals and helps in hydration and weight loss.
• Amla is one of the richest source of Vitamin C and promotes immunity.
• Leafy Green vegetables are packed with vitamins, minerals and fibres and constitute an important part of healthy diet.
• Drinking black tea can prevent lung damage.
• Having a piece of clove after a meal reduces acidity.
• An egg contains all Vitamins except Vitamin C.
• Eating chocolates while studying helps brain to retain more information.
• Dark chocolates are loaded with nutrients. Made from the seeds of cocoa, it is one of the best source of antioxidants and has many health benefits.
• Nuts and seeds are good source of proteins, healthy fats, dietary fibre, vitamins and minerals.
• Mushrooms are a rich source of low calorie, fibre, protein and antioxidants.  

Stay Healthy and Stay Safe!!

                    Shailja Mishra

Mishra.shailja6325@gmail.com

HERBAL INFUSIONS

Herbal infusion is a drink made by putting herbs, seeds or leaves in hot water. Various things like flowers, seeds, leaves, peels etc. can be used to make it. Let us see how various infusions can be made.

HOW TO MAKE AN INFUSION?

• With SEEDS – A tablespoon (crushed)
• With LEAVES – 7-8 leaves
• With FLOWERS – 3-4 petals
• Add the seeds, leaves or flowers to an earthen pot or glass tumbler, pour boiling water on them and close with a lid. After 10 minutes, the infused drink is ready!

INFUSION FROM SEEDS AND FLOWERS

Carom Infusion (Ajwain): excellent for digestion and improvement in cold and cough. Great for dry cough.

Coriander Infusion : The seeds give a cooling effect. They activate the bladder and promote the kidney functions.

Fenugreek Infusion: excellent for controlling diabetese.

Fennel Infusion: excellent for digestion.

Sesame Infusion : excellent source of calcium. Great for joint pains and Osteoporosis.

Cumin Infusion: Best source of Iron,. Helps reduce cholesterol and aids digestion.

Harsingar infusion: Its infusion acts as immunity booster and has anti- bacterial and anti- viral qualities too.

Reference: Dr. Seema Sood ( Diet and Nutrition Consultant)

THE TEAM BEHIND

“THE HFS TIMES“

Mrs Rama Tyagi            Director HFS

Mr Som Dutt Tygi          Advisor                          

Gp Capt Sushil Bhatia     Chief Editor

Ms Vandana Bhatnagar     Editor and Content Provider

Ms Sugandha Singhania Asst Editor

Ms Shailja Mishra          Editor and Content Provider

Mr Sandeep Rohilla      Exec & Marketing Editor

Ms Sonia Agrawal          Creative Editor

Mr Devraj Singh             Technical Head