So, that is how the story goes.

The butterfly effect of sparrows

“The flapping of a butterfly’s wings can cause a hurricane in another part of the world.” The famous Butterfly Effect reached biblical dimensions in China in the mid-20th century but, in his case, exchanging butterflies for sparrows.

An extermination that led to a massacre

What began as a nationwide war against sparrows would lead, years later, to the death of millions of people. How could it be? Everything has a simple but extensive explanation. It all started in 1958, when the communist government of Mao Zedong, the first president of the People’s Republic of China since 1949, launched this lapidary slogan: “Birds are the animals of capitalism.”

The ‘Great Leap Forward’ would imply, in addition to mobilizing almost the entire population, ending those Mao Zedong considered enemies of his great initiative: mosquitoes, flies, rodents and sparrows, in a war against these animals that was called the ‘Campaign of the Four Plagues’.

Mosquitoes, rodents and flies

Mosquitoes, rodents and flies were eradicated with the excuse of improving hygiene and health of the Chinese population, but the true enemies of the communist regime, as they themselves pointed out, were the sparrows. The reason? They ate the grain from the crops, a grain that Mao Zedong considered should be exclusively for the citizens.

At that time, China was going through a difficult situation. On the one hand, they were adapting to this great agrarian reform and, on the other hand, they saw how the sparrows were eating their future.

Unilateral decision

According to the Chinese journalist Dai Qing in an article on the subject, “Mao Zedong did not know anything about animals and did not want to discuss or listen to experts, he only decided that the four pests had to be killed.

Thus, Mao Zedong only had to use data, those that his scientists had given him, indicating that each sparrow ate around 4.5 kilos of grain per year, estimating that each million sparrows hunted would leave free food for 60,000 Chinese citizens. It did not take much more to achieve the massive collaboration of the entire population.

Mao Zedong would pass a law allowing citizens to hunt sparrows indiscriminately. Thus, the population used pots and pans to make them come out of their nests and hunt them down. They even came to chase them making noise, until they died exhausted, recalls the Dutch historian Frank Dikötter in the book ‘The Great Famine in Mao’s China’.

Hundreds of millions of sparrows

It is impossible to give a figure for the number of sparrows exterminated, but it is easy to think of hundreds of millions, considering that, in the early 1960s, the Chinese population was 600 million people. In the eyes of Mao Zedong and the citizens, the initiative was a success: the sparrow had been almost exterminated.

No sparrows to eat locusts and bedbugs

Only a year had passed before citizens realized the reality: sparrows ate their seeds, but they also controlled lethal predators such as locusts that soon devastated the crops of the entire country, in a more devastating measure than what sparrows could ever have done. After the locusts would come the bedbugs.

No food for a whole country

The result was paltry agricultural production that led to a massive famine across the country, leaving homes and shops without food.

Millions dead, “Import the sparrows”

Official Chinese government estimates say 15 million people died from starvation. Less official lines of research raise that figure to between 45 and 70 million people, as reported by ‘Time’ magazine.

Ultimately, China would end up importing 250,000 sparrows from the Soviet Union. The bird that had been the staunch enemy of an entire country suddenly became China’s hope for redressing a desperate situation.

So, everything that has been created in the universe is meant for a purpose, to maintain a fine balance.

Let us not destroy it!

GARDENING IN JULY

July is the monsoon month. One of the best and awaited month for gardeners. Plants will look clean happy and healthy. Hope you all have finished repotting of your evergreen ornamentals. There are certain precautions required like, applying fungicide on all plants, like Trichoderma.

Check the holes of your pots if they are clogged, if yes, then open them. Do keep your plants out to enjoy the rains but make sure to put them inside otherwise you will have sun scorched leaves. Trim your plants like creepers and vines. Excessive growth of vigorous shrubs should be restricted by careful pruning. Climbers must be thinned out and all dead woods removed. Ficus hedges can also be thinned and cleaned. Cannas should be replanted.

Rain Lilies : Rain lilies can be planted any time of the year but they flower during rains. Their sprouting is promoted by rain water. Plant Rain lilies in well drained and rich soil and should be kept in full sun. Light pink lilies bloom even after 7 to 10 days of planting. Apricot and yellow bloom from June to August, Lemon and deep pink are last to bloom. August to October is the time when all bloom simultaneously. Don’t plant one bulb in a pot but 10 bulbs in a 6-in pot look beautiful. Some rain lilies bear seeds which can be taken and sown for more plants though they will take almost 2 yrs to bloom. You can also cross pollinate to get your own new hybrids if you have different colours blooming at same time.

Propagation: Time for grafting, layering and cuttings to increase your collection is now. Cut all overgrown plants and dip in root hormone /cinnamon powder and plant them in sand to make new plants. Plants which can be propagated through cuttings are:

• Bougainvillaea
• Dracena

• Croton
• Aralia
• Syngoniums
• Pothos
• Schefflera
• Ficus
• Eranthemum
• Enermi
• Alternanthera
• Etc

Plants develop roots due to high humidity in the atmosphere. Do keep an eye on rotting.

Keep on feeding your water lilies.

Reduce irrigation of lawns to a minimum.

Avoid overwatering foliage plants and protect chrysanthemums, geraniums and kalanchoes in pots. If necessary protect them from excessive and continuous rainfall.

Suspend irrigation of Roses.

Beds and pots should be planted with monsoon flowering annuals like Balsams ,cosmos ,celosia morning glories.

Lawns can be given an application of lime and dressing of manure.

All perennial and fruit trees can be planted now.

Vegetables: You can grow Summer Radish, Coriander, capsicum, bhindi, Beetroot, Brinjal, Bottle gourd, Bitter gourd, Chilli, Cucumber, Maize, Cholai, Beans, Lobia, Palak, Pumpkin, Malabar Spinach, Ridge gourd, Tomatoes ETC.

But be careful on direct sowing seeds .Cover the seeds with inverted plastic bottles. Remove the bottles when the seedlings are strong. Or grow seeds inside under protection.

Fruit Trees: Trees which have finished with fruiting can be pruned now and later fertilised . New plants /trees can be planted. Water on alternate days. Apply appropriate fungicide and insecticide. (Carbaryl, 2gms/lt).
Bigger trees should be painted with lime or geru to protect them from fungus and pests.

Happy Gardening.

Rama Tyagi
tyagirama1@gmail.com.
.

PESTS IN JULY

Due to climate change and global warming, pest populations are increasing, and people in and around the globe are seeing more bugs and pests during the summer months. Insects need external heat sources to grow and thrive, so rising environmental temperatures are helping them reproduce at more rapid rates. Changes to global rainfall patterns and widespread droughts are also increasing pest numbers since crops stressed by drought are less resistant to pest predation.
If you’ve noticed more pests than usual in your home or yard.

As the climate becomes more insect-friendly, pests are moving into new territory around the world. This leads to surprising infestations in places that have never seen infestations before.

Fewer Natural Predators: Another function of climate change is that it changes the way insects and predators interact. In a balanced environment, insect predators would be abundant when crop plants come under pressure from insect pests.

The ability of predators to find insect pests, however, depends on their ability to function and survive in a changing environment. If the warming climate is killing insect predators while causing insect populations to bloom, for example, the balance will naturally skew in favour of the pests.

Crop-Eating Pests Love Warm Weather: The increase in insects in the summer is even bad news for some insects. As temperatures increase and pest populations flourish, there’s more food for predatory insects to consume. Wasps, praying mantises, ladybugs, and flower flies eat ants, aphids, flies, and other small bugs.

Within reason, this is good news for homeowners, as a balanced population of predatory insects may help control pest species in your home and garden.

Ant swarms: Winged ants are forced out of colonies during warm afternoons following rainfall events

Tree/Shrub Insects:

• Spruce spider mite: Typical period of peak populations.

• Rose leafhoppers: Peak injury to foliage of rose.
• Peach tree borer: Emergence of adults begins which can be monitored with pheromone traps.
• Spruce gall adelgid: First emergence from spruce galls also starts and they start migrating.
• Honey-locust spider mite: Populations begin to build towards their midsummer peak.
• Root weevils: Leaf notching injuries produced by adult weevils are noticeable.

• Garden Insects

• Tomato psyllid: Flights of migrating psyllids arrive in state and start to colonise garden plants.
• Grasshoppers: Eggs laying completed. This is the best time for treatment.
• Flea beetles: Populations usually have peaked during this period.
• Two spotted spider mites: Populations start to increase on a wide variety of garden plants.

Early July:

Sunspider: Migrations into homes often peak around this time.

Tree/Shrub Insects

Leaf Curling aphids: Most species have departed from overwintering host trees and shrubs.

Leafcutter bees: Characteristic cut leaf injury begins to appear on rose, lilac and other susceptible hosts.

Garden Insects

• Mexican bean beetle: Larvae begin to damage beans.
• Tobacco budworm: Early evidence of injury to flowers may be present.
• Grasshoppers: Egg Laying largely completed. Optimum time for treatment.

Lawns

Sod webworms: Watch for damage to turf grasses by the second generation larvae.
Ant swarms: Winged ants are forced out of colonies during warm afternoons following rainfall events.

Late July

Tree/Shrub Insects

• Codling moth: Second, and most damaging generation begins to lay eggs. Monitor flights with pheromone traps.
• Sawflies: Neodiprion autumnalis may cause damage peak in midsummer.
• Pearslug: Larvae damage plum.
• Tomato hornworms: Peak damage by larvae occurs over the next month.
• Tomato psyllid: Symptoms may begin to appear on tomatoes.
• Grasshoppers: Damage accelerates over the next month.
• Mexican bean beetle: Larvae begin to damage beans.

Rama Tyagi
tyagirama1@gmail.com.

GARDENER OF THE MONTH

(This month onwards, we will be bringing out stories of gardeners who despite many challenges, have been able to make a mark of their gardening habits. To start with, we bring out the story of Mr Anil Kumar Atreya, from Chandigarh. Well, apart from a outstanding gardener, he is an ardent photographer, though he may not commit on that. What’s more, he lightens up the day of his friends by bringing out a beautiful quote each day. Read on)!

From Flowers to Vegetables: My Journey in Terrace Gardening

Introduction: 

Hi, I am Anil Kumar Atreya and I own a business in Chandigarh. I was born and raised in Shimla; my parents and I moved to Chandigarh after my higher studies. 

My Story:

Since my childhood, I have had a love for plants, as my mother was an active gardener and I used to spend time with her in our garden back in my hometown. 

When we moved to Chandigarh I was inspired by the beauty of this city, so serene and green everywhere. Especially the fascinating rose garden, it made me want to have roses and plants on my terrace in Chandigarh. 

I started with a challenge, back then Chandigarh used to have a government nursery to which I went and wanted to purchase roses for my pots, and the mallis there scoffed at me and said that “Roses do not grow in pots” and being a Taurus I was adamant to prove him otherwise, and I did too! 

That is when my love for plants became my passion; Terrace gardening has been an incredible journey for me, starting with a few small pots to big grow bags and drums. 

Along the way, I have not only nurtured a wide variety of plants but also focused on growing organic vegetables and fruits in a sustainable and environmentally friendly manner. This article shares my experiences and the lessons I’ve learned on this fulfilling terrace gardening journey.

What I started with, Vs Where I am now

I started with only flowers that too only four pots of Roses and later expanded to indoor and outdoor plants. 

Now, I have Lotuses, Water Lilies, a Variety of Roses, Bonsais, Lilium, and more. Along with the excitement of growing plants, I developed a deep commitment to organic gardening.

I now also grow my fruits, vegetables, and herbs, like Apples, Guava, Cherry, Phalsa, Kakronda, Mulberry, Eggplant, Ladyfinger, Bottle groud, Arbi, Tomatoes, Capsicum, and lots more.

My Aim:

I wanted to ensure that the fruits and vegetables I grew were free from harmful chemicals and pesticides. Embracing organic gardening practices allowed me to cultivate a healthier and more sustainable environment. I incorporated composting, using organic fertilizers, and implementing natural pest control methods to maintain the balance of the ecosystem I had created.

My Challenges:

The biggest hurdle was finding effective means to control pest and plant diseases organically. 

Despite the help provided online, I had to research extensively myself to find solutions locally to help me solve the problem immediately. 

I am living in a very old-built multistorey structure that has two terraces and a rooftop, on which I had to figure out a way to keep the soil medium light. 

My Learnings:

By mistakes and losing some plants, and researching the cause of failure, I have learned how to rescue plants from their diseases, and I can now efficiently keep all my plants healthy. Though even now I am learning more day by day as different challenges keep on occurring according to the seasons.

My Tips for Beginners are :

I would want to motivate all the youngsters to grow their produce organically at home, not only for the healthy equation of it but also for the Joy you achieve after.

1.  Learn about the plant’s light and temperature requirements before purchasing. 
2. Spend time with your plants, and check if they are in any problem by inspecting the leaves, the soil, and pests (if any). 
3. You can start with growing, Mint, Basil, Chillies, spinach, or tomato-like plants that are easier to grow. 
4. Use grow bags instead of terracotta or cement pots, as it is lighter to lift and move as per the plant’s requirement and has ample room for the roots to grow. 

I am keen to help anyone interested in terrace gardening with my knowledge and would also be highly interested in learning new things. Do contact via anilatreya.mod@gmail.com

Happy Gardening!

Anil Atreya

anilatreya.mod@gmail.com

GUIDE FOR FLOWERS YEAR AROUND

PLAN YOUR VEGETABLES AROUND THE YEAR

USES OF TAMARIND SEEDS

You might have loved the tangy taste of tamarinds in your food. After using the pulpy juice of tamarind, you might be throwing the seeds away. After reading about the tamarind seeds’ benefits , you would think twice before disposing them .Shiny polished black coloured seeds are rich in important minerals and nutrients like phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, calcium, amino acids, and vitamins, tamarind seeds . Read on to know further.

1.Beneficial for teeth: Excessive consumption of soft drinks and smoking can lead to deposition of tartar and plaque; tamarind seeds can help by cleaning your teeth properly.

2.Helps in promoting digestion: It is rich in dietary fibre, which further results in reduction of cholesterol. Fibre also helps in improving your digestive system.I remember in childhood,my mother was used to roast the seeds and after meals we were chewing .

3.May prevent infections: Thanks to its antibacterial properties, tamarind seeds can help protect your skin from infections as well. Moreover, it can also protect you from intestinal and urinary tract infections.

4.Helps manage diabetes: Tamarind seeds tend to protect the pancreas, which increases the size of insulin-producing cells. Drinking tamarind seed water may help manage blood sugar levels naturally.

5.Heart-friendly: Tamarind seeds contain potassium that can be useful for patients suffering from hypertension and other cardiovascular diseases.

Use tamarind seeds to stay healthy. Make sure you consult a doctor before using it for managing any health condition.

Vandna Bhatnagar
Nonofficial66@gmail.com

THE IMPORTANCE OF HYDROGEL IN GARDENING

THROUGH THE LENS OF A GARDENER

FROM THE KITCHEN GARDENS OF OUR MEMBERS

As you know, each one of us needs a companion. Similar things happen in gardening, too. There are some pairs of plants which enjoy each other’s company.

SOME INTERESTING FACTS
ABOUT GARDENING

(Compiled from Internet)

Incredible but true that our soil is rich in environmental bacteria which is non- pathogenic on humans and is natural antidepressant. It’s Mycobacterium vaccae found in soil that humans inhale when they spend time with nature. This bacteria stimulates neurons that cause increased levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter or hormone that plays role in mood uplift and emotions and decrease level of anxiety or stress.

The most passionate gardeners enjoy gardening and consider their gardens as most happy place. The gardening reduces stress levels and anxiety and helps in boosting the mood. Mycobacterium vaccae also improves cognitive skills i.e. brain based skills that are needed for acquiring knowledge, manipulation of information and reasoning.

Researches has also revealed that a lipid hexadecenoic found in Mycobacterium vaccae stimulates immune cells that bind the pathway for receptors that cause inflammation and has effect on even rheumatoid arthritis.

The natural effect of these antidepressant can be felt for a pretty long time. So get your hands dirty and be healthier.

Happy Gardening.

Shailja Mishra
Mishra.shailja6325@gmail.com

Pineapple Lily

Plant of the Day

Pineapple lilies (Eucomis) are miniature floral representations of the tropical fruit. They are annuals or rarely perennials and are extremely frost tender. The slightly bizarre plants are only 12 to 15 inches (31-38 cm.) tall but have large flower heads that resemble tiny pineapples flanked with green bracts.

Learn how to grow a pineapple lily flower for a unique garden specimen that will make your neighbours stop and look twice.

Pineapple Lilies :Pineapple lilies are in the genus Eucomis and include a wide range of tropical plants native to warm moist regions of the world. A little known fact about pineapple lilies is that they are actually related to asparagus. Both plants are in the Lily family. Pineapple lily plants grow from bulbs. These interesting bulbs start out as a rosette and do not usually start blooming for a year. Then annually, the plants produce the pineapple shaped flowers in July to August. Some varieties carry a faint, unpleasant scent.

The flower is actually composed of many tiny little flowers clustered together in a cone shape. The colours vary but are usually white, cream or flecked with violet. The pineapple lily has pointed, spear-like leaves and a flowering stem that rises above the plant. Most varieties are easily injured in winters. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 10 and 11 but can be grown down to zone 8 if it is dug up and overwintered indoors. These plants are clumping over time and may get 2 to 3 feet (61-91 cm.) wide over time.

How to Grow a Pineapple Lily Flower: Growing pineapple lilies is easy. In zones of 9 or below, start them in pots and then transplant them outdoors after the danger of frost has passed. Plant the bulbs in well prepared soil with excellent drainage. Work in a few inches (8 cm.) of compost or leaf litter to increase the tilth and nutrient content of the planting bed. Dig holes 6 to 12 inches (15-31 cm.) deep, every 6 inches (15 cm.).

Care Of Pineapple Lilies: Place the bulbs in full sun in spring once soils have warmed to 60 degrees F. (16 C.). Growing pineapple lilies in a deep container will help you save the bulbs. Move the containers indoors when temperatures drop in fall.

If you are going to move the bulbs indoors for winter, allow the foliage to persist as long as possible so the plant can gather energy from the sun to fuel the next season’s bloom. After you dig up the bulbs, lay them out in a cool, dry location for a week, then wrap them in newspaper and place them in a paper or cardboard box.

Soil: In spite of their lush, tropical appearance, pineapple lilies are not jungle plants, and grow well in rocky soil. Cactus or orchid potting mixes work well, or your own potting mix blend, as long as it drains well.

Water: Water your pineapple lilies when the soil surface feels dry. Keeping bulbs dry during winter dormancy is important to plant survival. If you have mild but wet winters, you should dig and store bulbs indoors to provide that dry dormancy.

Temperature and Humidity: Pineapple lilies don’t grow well in cool weather. Temperatures over 65 degrees F will signal the plants that it’s time to grow. Dig your bulbs in the fall to store inside if you live north of zone 7. The plants tolerate all humidity types, as long as the soil itself isn’t soggy.

Fertiliser: A balanced flower fertiliser every two weeks will help your pineapple lilies grow large and vigorous. Plants that are fertilised are also more likely to produce offsets.

Potting and Repotting: Pineapple lilies growing in pots don’t need to be planted as deeply as those in the ground; about three inches. Choose chunky or coarse potting mix, and a container with adequate drainage holes. Do not place a dish that collects water under the pot; use pot feet to let water drain away.

Propagating Pineapple Lily: Observe your pineapple lilies in the spring for offsets, or “pups.” You can dig up the entire plant, and remove these pups. Replant them at least 12 inches away from the parent plant.

Varieties of Pineapple Lily: ‘Aloha Lily Leia’ pineapple lily is a dwarf variety with bright pink flowers. ‘Joy’s Purple’ has deep purple flowers as well as purple foliage. ‘Cornwood’ bears late-season creamy flowers with maroon centres.

Toxicity of Pineapple Lily: The bulbs of pineapple lilies are poisonous if ingested. The foliage and flowers are not toxic, but neither are they edible.

Pruning Pineapple Lily: Pineapple lilies need no pruning when they are actively growing. All plants will enter a winter dormancy, even in warm areas, and this is the time to remove dead and dying foliage to tidy up the plants.

Being Grown in Containers: Container culture allows gardeners with any soil type to successfully grow pineapple lilies. Plant three to five bulbs in a container alone, or pair them up with other South African ornamentals, like agapanthus, pelargoniums, or nemesia.

Growing From Seeds: Collect the shiny black seeds from pineapple lilies when flowering is finished. Like many plants grown from bulbs, seed growing is the slow-motion way to get blooming plants. Sown in spring, the seeds can take several weeks to germinate, and several years to reach blooming size.

Common Pests and Diseases: Root rot is the most common issue to plague pineapple lilies. Move containers out of the rain if wet weather is a problem, and keep bulbs dry over the winter.

Pineapple Lily vs Bromeliad: With their strappy leaves and composite of small flowers emerging on a central stalk, the bromeliad bears a resemblance to the pineapple lily. However, the bromeliad is an epiphyte, and does not need soil to grow. Bromeliads have a longer blooming time than pineapple lilies, but after blooming, the plant dies. Bromeliads are also very frost sensitive, and cannot survive outdoors below zone 9.

Happy Gardening.

Rama Tyagi
tyagirama1@gmail.com

Growing Lily Bulbs from Seed

Growing lilies from seed is a long term project. You make your breeding crosses during the first summer, Indoor grow-lights or a heated greenhouse is a must, as only a small percentage of hybrid seed will germinate if sowed directly outdoors. Since each seedling is unique, it can take two to five years of additional growth before a grower is able to evaluate the first flowers, and make selections for clonal (vegetative) propagation.

The easiest hybrid lilies to produce are between crosses of lilies of the same type; Asiatic lily to Asiatic lily, Trumpet to Trumpet, etc. Interspecific crosses are much more difficult, but members of the North American Lily Society can provide valuable assistance if you wish to embark on this fascinating hobby. To avoid cross pollination when producing new hybrid seeds of any plant, you need strict sanitary conditions; from the collection of pollen grains produced by the father plant, to manually fertilising the stigma of the mother plant.

A serious hybridizer (plant breeder) keeps strict records of all crosses so that he/she may go back and repeat any combinations that produced desired results. For our purposes, however, we’ll start with seed that is open-pollinated, or has naturally occurred on a stem.

Step #1. After the earliest blooms have started to fade and the pods have begun to swell, deadhead (cut off) the remaining blooms to encourage the plant to put its energy into producing seed. Leaving only one or two pods per stem is less stressful to your bulb.

Step #2. Pick the pods in September, when yellow and slightly soft, but before they begin to crack open. If heavy rain threatens or freezing temperatures are likely before the pods have ripened, pick the upper 1/3 of the stem. Place in a vase, changing the water daily. When the pods are dry, remove seeds and air dry on paper towels. When held to the light, you should be able to see a tiny embryo in each seed. Discard any chaff (seeds without embryos). This will be hybrid seed, not identical to either parent, but whereby new cultivars (named varieties) are created.

Step #3. Sow seed an inch apart in a flat or pot, covering with 1/2 inch of sterile, finely textured potting soil. You may start seed immediately after harvest in a greenhouse or under lights, or wait until spring and sow in a cold frame or unheated greenhouse. Direct sowing outdoors is not recommended. Seedling losses can be very high due to fungus infections and/or uneven moisture levels.

Step #4. Seedlings need light 14 to 16 hours per day, even moisture, plus diluted liquid fertiliser every 14 days. When bulblets are the size of filberts and have a good root structure, transplant outdoors in late spring (harden off first), or grow in individual pots until planting in the garden during October. Two to three more years of growth outdoors is necessary before the bulbs are mature.

Rama Tyagi
tyagirama1@gmail.com.
.

plants that repel pests

BEAUTY PRODUCTS FROM PLANTS

Adopted

Vegetable Gardening 101

(Posted on May 19, 2022 by Surinder Tikoo)

[This post has been adapted from a blog written by Surinder Tikoo, who is based out of US (and also happens to be my engineering course mate), but that is not the reason why this post has been included here, though. The contents are such that they are applicable to all gardening activities in any part of the world. This is Part 1 of the post. Part 2 and concluding part would be published in Aug magazine. Enjoy!]

I caught the gardening bug when I helped tend the family vegetable garden during my early teenage years. The bug never left me; for the past 20 years, I have enjoyed cultivating a 350-square-foot vegetable patch.

Vegetable gardening has for long had an uncool image. However, topical issues such as sustainability, climate change, and organic farming have made vegetable gardening trendy. Also, the pandemic nudged many people, including millennials, into gardening.

Gardening is among the few activities wherein you reap much more than you sow. Do consider vegetable gardening if you are not already into it.

I will share my gardening notes in a two-part post. In this first part, I will focus on the planting season, and later, I will write about the post-planting season.

Benefits of gardening

• Gardening nourishes the soul! It really does.
• The mix of physical exercise and nature connection makes gardening therapeutic.
• Homegrown veggies are tastier than the commercially stored and distributed ones.

Desirable qualities of a gardener

Because gardening does not provide instant gratification, you must be patient, disciplined, and have a nurturing instinct. 

Garden types and location

The garden should be near a water source and get direct sunlight for six to eight hours  daily.

I have an in-ground garden. I replenish the soil biennially and amend it at the planting holes.

I should upgrade to a raised bed garden, which is ergonomic, has lesser weed/pest infestation, better water drainage, and enables soil control.

I use five/seven-gallon containers to grow climber vegetables. I locate the containers near my house to use the house walls for trellising.

Containers should be of appropriate size and have drainage holes. Use potting mix and not garden soil in containers. Potting mix is a soilless mix of compost for plant feed and vermiculite/perlite for facilitating water drainage.

Garden aesthetics

I mostly ignore aesthetics. I can because I have a backyard garden.

For aesthetics, opt for a raised bed garden and grow companion flowers, such as marigolds, for beautification and more. Companion flowers are pest repellents and pollinator attractors.

Does vegetable gardening save money?

A budget-conscious gardener can use home supplies to reduce materials costs. There is an upfront cost, which is modest when spread across several years.

Because gardening is time-intensive, labor is the main cost. If the opportunity cost of the time spent on gardening is low, gardening can be money-saving. Note that the market prices of veggies are rock-bottom during the harvest season.

I have a somewhat high opportunity cost. For me, gardening is a labor of love. However, I do not go overboard; I have to strike the right balance with my other activities.

Vegetable mix

I shun single-yield vegetables such as cabbage and cauliflower. I prefer high-yielding veggies that bear fruit over weeks—tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, beans, zucchini, eggplant, bitter melons, and bottle gourds.

Growing bitter melons and bottle gourds is cumbersome because these vines grow haphazardly and need elaborate vertical support. I grow them because they are unavailable at local supermarkets. If possible, I avoid climber plants, though. Vertical gardening comes in handy when the garden area is small.

To smoothen vegetable supply, I plant tomato varieties of different maturities, grow an assortment of vegetables with a wide range of maturity periods, and stagger the transplanting of starter plants over multiple weeks.

Gardening inputs

The critical planting inputs are soil and seeds/starter plants. Plants love soft, spongy, rich in organic material, and slightly acidic to neutral soil. Soil with a pH between 6 and 7 is desirable.

Check your soil pH with a home test kit or at the local agricultural extension center. If the pH is off, raise it by adding limestone and lower it by adding sulfur.

I procure starter plants when they first become available and raise them indoors to have decent-sized plants to transplant eventually.

Garden layout

Crop rotation helps reduce plant disease; avoid growing the same vegetable at one location for consecutive years.

Locate the tallest plants on the north end, where they will not shade other plants.

Avoid growing incompatible vegetables alongside. 

Resist the temptation to cheat on recommended plant spacing. If you have to, cheat no more than 20 percent. 

Run veggie rows from north to south to maximize sun exposure.

Consider planting creeper veggies near the garden border so that the plants can spread outside the garden bed. I grow zucchini at the border.

Additionally, I plant garlic, chilies, and eggplant at the border to keep deer at bay.

Planting

I prepare the garden by working the soil with an electric tiller.

For two weeks before planting, I keep my starter plants outside for several hours daily to harden them for the real world.

Transplant when balmy weather is in the forecast for consecutive days.

Transplant early in the morning or evening to minimize direct sun exposure. An overcast day with a slight drizzle is perfect.

I water my starter plants a few hours before transplantation and add some liquid fertilizer to ease their transition to a new habitat.

I dig a one-gallon hole, fill it with garden soil and compost, and transplant the starter plant. I compact the base of the plant to ensure that the plant is upright.

Next, I spread wood mulch around the plant. Mulch inhibits weed growth and helps retain moisture. Finally, I water the plant. And I am good to go.

Sometime this October, I will write about how my garden fared from planting to the harvesting season. 

(PLEASE DO CHECK THE AUG ISSUE OF THE MAGAZINE TO CONTINUE READING THE SECOND PART)

Surinder Tikkoo

WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY CELEBRATIONS

05 – 07 JUN

When it comes to gardening, and spreading the message, HFS has always been in the fore front.

During the celebrations of the WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY, an exhibition was held at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, where HFS put up a stall.

FUNGICIDES

Fungicides are chemicals used to prevent plants from harmful fungi. Most fungicides consist of carbon, oxygen, nitrogen, zinc,sulphur and manganese. Some organic fungicides like  Neem Oil, Rosemary and Jojoba oil can also be used.

 Advantages of Fungicide

Some benefits of fungicides in plant disease control are..

• Pests and insects can destroy acres of fields in a matter of days . Fungicides can prevent such unfortunate events by eradicating the threat of pests. 
• Pests can also affect the quality of the yield at the time of harvest. 

 Different Types of Fungicides

There are different types of fungicides available in the market. We can choose the fungicide that meets our requirements.

 Contact and Systemic

Contact fungicide only work within the area in which they are applied and might  have to be used multiple times as they can be easily washed away by rain.Captan, folpet, dithiocarbamates, pentachlorophenol and mercurials are some examples of contact fungicides.

aSystemic fungicides  reach different sections of the plant preventing fungus from spreading. Example are Azoxystrobin,Bavistin .

Saaf is a fungicide with systemic & contact action .

Single Site and Multi Site

Single fungicides work on a particular type of protein preventing the fungus from spreading. They are less toxic .So they are less toxic for the surroundings. Multi site fungicide work on different parts of the plant. They are more toxic. 

 Organic and Inorganic

Fungicides which consist of more carbon are considered to be organic like bio organic Trichoderma.

Organic fungicides are less harmful like neem oil, horticultural oil, and bicarbonates,  whereas fungicides with less carbon are considered to be inorganic and more harmful than organic Fungicides.

So it is very important to use a fungicide in different stages of growth to protect seeds ,seedlings , mature plant or its yield.

Vandna Bhatnagar

Nonofficial66@gmail.com

Exploring the Hidden Gems: The
Enchanting World of Minor Fruits

When it comes to fruit, we often think of popular and widely consumed varieties like apples, oranges, and bananas. However, there exists a treasure trove of lesser-known fruits, often referred to as minor fruits, waiting to be discovered and savoured. These exquisite gems may be unfamiliar to many, but they offer unique flavours, nutritional benefits, and a sense of adventure for those willing to explore the culinary delights that lie beyond the mainstream. These fruits, although not as commercially popular, possess distinctive flavours that tantalize the taste buds and open doors to new gastronomic experiences. From the tangy sweetness of feijoas and the tropical aroma of guavas to the tartness of tamarillos and the delicate fragrance of rambutans, minor fruits present a world of flavours waiting to be explored and enjoyed. Minor fruits often hold cultural and regional significance, deeply rooted in the traditions and cuisines of their respective locales. These fruits have been cherished for generations, forming an integral part of local diets, festivals, and culinary heritage. They offer a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of various communities and can be a gateway to understanding different traditions and ways of life.

It’s time to indulge in some sweet, zesty, and juicy seasonal fruits now that summer is here. Ironically, summers are frequently linked with just a few seasonal fruits like mangoes or watermelons, but here is a list of some of the most underrated yet healthy summer fruits that you should give a try!

Phalsa, a small purple fruit native to India, Pakistan, and Southeast Asia, is not only delicious but also offers a range of health benefits.

It is a rich source of antioxidants, such as anthocyanins, which help protect the body against oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Phalsa is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate inflammation-related conditions. It also aids in digestion by promoting healthy bowel movements and relieving constipation. Additionally, some studies suggest that phalsa may have potential anti-cancer effects due to its bioactive compounds. Including phalsa in your diet can be a tasty way to support your overall well-being.

GUAVA: Guava, although widely recognized in tropical regions, can be considered a minor fruit in some parts of the world.

Despite its lesser-known status, guava offers numerous healthbenefits and a delightful taste. Rich in vitamin C, fibre, and antioxidants, guava supports immune function, aids digestion, and promotes healthy skin. Its high fibre content helps regulate blood sugar levels and improve cardiovascular health. Guava leaves have also been used traditionally for their medicinal properties, including antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. Whether enjoyed fresh, in smoothies or incorporated into various dishes, guava is a flavorful and nutritious addition to any diet.

JAMUN: Jamun, a small fruit native to the Indian subcontinent, is often overlooked but holds immense nutritional value and health benefits. Its deep purple or black colour reflects its rich antioxidant content, which helps combat oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Jamun is known for its potential anti-diabetic properties, as it can help regulate blood sugar levels. Additionally, it is a good source of vitamins A and C, iron, and potassium. This lesser-known fruit can be enjoyed fresh, used in desserts, or made into delicious jams and jellies. Discovering the unique flavours and health benefits of Jamun can be a delightful experience for fruit enthusiasts seeking new culinary adventures.

MULBERRY: Mulberry, often considered a minor fruit in certain regions, is a delightful and nutritious addition to the culinary world. These small, sweet berries come in various colours, including red, black, and white, and offer a range of health benefits. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins C and K, and dietary fibre, mulberries support immune function, promote healthy digestion, and contribute to overall well-being.

They are also a good source of iron and calcium, which are essential for maintaining healthy bones and preventing anaemia. Whether enjoyed fresh, dried, or incorporated into jams, desserts, or smoothies, mulberries provide a burst of flavour and a dose of nutrition that can be appreciated by those exploring the world of minor fruits.

THE WOOD APPLE: Wood apple, also known as Bael fruit, is a lesser-known fruit that can be categorized as a minor fruit. Its unique taste and potential health benefits make it worth exploring.

The fruit has a hard, woody exterior that protects the soft, aromatic pulp inside. Wood apple is a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fibre, which can aid in digestion, relieve constipation, and promote gut health. It is also known for its antioxidant properties, helping to combat oxidative stress and boost the immune system. Additionally, wood apple is believed to have cooling effects on the body and may offer relief from
respiratory conditions. Whether consumed fresh or as a refreshing drink, wood apple adds a touch of exotic flavour and potential health benefits to the world of minor fruits.

In a world where mainstream fruits dominate the market, it is easy to overlook the hidden treasures that minor fruits hold. Exploring the diverse world of minor fruits not only opens doors to new and exciting flavours but also promotes cultural appreciation, supports sustainable practices, and contributes to the preservation of biodiversity. So, let us embark on a culinary adventure, embrace the enchantment of minor fruits, and allow them to surprise and delight us with their unique offerings. Let us celebrate the hidden gems and invite their vibrant flavours to grace our tables, adding a touch of novelty and wonder to our gastronomic journeys.

Deepti Jain

THE COSTLIEST MANGO OF THE WORLD: MIYAZAKI

The Miyazaki mango, usually found in Japan, is known as the world’s costliest mango. The rare mango is now found in India in West Bengal’s Birbhum district. It is priced at an exorbitant rate of Rs 3 lakh per kilogram.

A tree of Miyazaki mango that has been planted near a mosque in Dubrajpur attracts people across the state.

Mostly commonly found in Japan, this mango variety is predominantly grown during the peak harvest season – from April to August.

The Miyazaki mango undergoes a mesmerizing transformation as it ripens. Initially, its colour is purple. However, once it reaches its peak ripeness, it turns into a flaming red. A single Miyazaki mango weighs approximately 350 grams.

(compiled from newsletter)

PURCHASING THE RIGHT SEED IS THE MAIN KEY

Growing your own food at the back of your house is one of the most rewarding things you can do. Apart from getting chemical-free food, you have the sense of having command over each stage of the production; right from seeds to producing seeds.

Moreover, gardening also positively affects your physical and mental well being.

However, initiating with the right kind of seeds is the first step into your gardening journey.

Know your seasons

Most fruits and vegetables have particular season when they grow and ripen. For instance, summer is the best time to pick tomatoes. Hence, sowing seeds at the right time ensures proper maturity and their readiness for harvesting.

Pick your seeds

It is one of the most crucial of the exercises. Quality of seeds play a significant role in maximizing yields. Picking the quality seeds as per the season ensures increased production.

Three Types of Seeds

Well! There are mainly 3 types of seeds available in the market.

1. Open-Pollinated: That means that pollinators, like insects, birds, bees, winds etc have helped in getting them pollinated.

These types of seeds are harder to find and can be a bit costly, but these seeds produce plants that look just like their mother plants. But there can be hybrids in this classification, too. What happens when a bee cross pollinates a zucchini and a pumpkin? But if your seed packet says ‘hybrid’, that means these are man-made hybrids.

2. Hybrids: Typically labelled F-1 by companies, these refer to seeds that have been cross-pollinated intentionally to get desired qualities, like disease resistant, heat tolerance, etc.

You would like to use this variety because this ensures a bit of more advantageous against some odds that you face in your garden. For example, if you have a wet climate, you may want to look at seeds which may be more fungal-resistant.

You can also raise your own open-pollinated fungal-resistant seeds in your own garden, but that may take few seasons to do.

You may like to save hybrid seeds from your own garden, but be ready for some surprises, as this seed may not behave as your mother plant did.

3. GMOs: These are genetically modified seeds; that means bio-engineered in a high-tech, gene-splicing laboratory; where the DNA of seed itself is changed.

For example, the gene of a plant can be engineered to resist sprayed toxic herbicides, without the plant itself dying from that. (Please note that most popular herbicide GLYPHOSATE, is a probable carcinogen).

In fact, few companies have taken a ‘green pledge’ not to market GMO seeds due to reasons similar to one cited above.

THE BIG QUESTION: so, if you buy conventional seeds, and grow them organically, is your food organic? There are various studies going on as to how much of toxins are left in the seeds.

NONETHE LESS, growing your own food, in whatever little quantity, IS A GREAT IDEA!

GO FOR IT!

Sushil Bhatia