Wildlife Tourism booming, at the cost of fragile eco-system

Sometime back, an incident from a lesser-known village Amboli, in Western Ghats came to light, that a Malabar Gliding Frog was being given flying lessons by visitors in the jungles, with an aim of getting a picture of the frog flying in air.

Once a little known village, this place attracts about 1000 odd wild life tourists each year in the rainy season, a development loved by the residents, but not welcome by the wildlife.

Wildlife tourisms, once confined to only big parks, sanctuaries and reserves, has increasingly started in lesser-known villages, adding to the revenue resources for the locals. But it has started bringing pitfalls for the parks.

Whereas the big parks have stricter norms for the visitors, and have a large force to enforce, these smaller parks have not much ethics and code of conduct, and hardly any manpower to monitor and implement. Thus, the visitors have a filed day – littering, handling animals for staged photography, luring birds with recorded sounds, baiting wildlife with foods, trampling over nesting grounds, disrupting natural hunting behaviors and exposing animals to predators.

Amboli village is known to house reptiles and amphibians, which are best spotted at night. Imagine a Pit Viper facing the sharp light of cameras and torches 20 times a night, every night. It is supposed to hunt in the dark, by waiting in the bushes for prey. Subjected to this phenomenon daily, how this snake can hunt its prey is anybody’s guess.

Bhigwan, a sleepy village in the wetlands of Maharashtra was little known to the tourists till about 10 years back. This areas receives about 300 species of migratory birds every year. As media exposes the charms of such places, they are becoming wildlife tourism attractions.

Competition undermining Conservation

At Sadpada at the southern shore of Chilika lake in Odisha, tour operators and boat men compete for tourists. each promising better sighting of marine wild life, specially Irrawaddy dolphins. This puts tremendous pressure on the creatures from 200 – 300 motorised boats doing the rounds of the lagoon. It is an example of an eco-sensitive area overrun by the tourists. While Chilika Development Authority sets guidelines and trains local communities, weak enforcement has led to widespread disregard to the rules and ethics.

Imagine a Irrawaddy dolphin, a Schedule 1 animal of Wildlife Protection Act, being surrounded by a number of boats for having a closer picture, risking injuries and even death by propellers. Still none has been arrested for last 20 years. Deaths are hidden and not reported.

In the end we must realise that responsible tourism can play a positive role in wildlife conservation.

November Gardening Guide

With winter just around the corner, there’s a chill in the air and a romantic atmosphere to enjoy. It’s the perfect time to grab a warm cup of tea or coffee and relax in the garden or on your balcony. But if you’re a gardener, this is also the season to get busy planting annuals—both flowers and vegetables—to ensure a vibrant garden in the coming months.

Growing Winter Flowers from Seed

Winter flowers thrive best at temperatures between 10°C and 25°C. Start with high-quality seeds and sow them about an inch deep in your chosen potting mix. While you can plant directly in regular soil, using a mix of 70% vermicompost with 30% sand or cocopeat will give you a higher germination rate. When sowing, take care not to overlap the seeds.

Best Sowing Time: Late October to November is ideal, as the seeds will be ready to sprout just before winter fully arrives.

After 15 to 20 days, your seedlings should be about 3-4 inches tall. At this stage, they’re ready for transplanting into a final potting mix. A good mix is 30% organic compost or vermicompost, 20% fine sand, and 50% regular soil. For pots, make sure they’re at least 6 inches deep to allow root growth.

Caring for Young Winter Plants

If you sowed seeds last month, your saplings are likely ready for transplanting. This timing allows them to establish themselves before the deeper cold sets in. As winter progresses, water sparingly, only when needed, and ideally in the morning. Wash off any dew from the plants to prevent sunburn, and avoid evening watering. If you must water in the afternoon, aim for 3-4 p.m., giving the soil enough time to drain and dry before nightfall. Plants don’t do well with “wet feet,” which can lead to root rot.

Additional Tips:

• Mulch: If it gets too cold, apply a layer of mulch to retain soil warmth and protect roots from frost.
• Fertilise Monthly: This is important to keep your plants nourished and thriving.
• Sunlight: Most plants need 4-6 hours of direct sunlight for optimal flowering.
• Pinching: Some plants benefit from pinching to encourage bushier growth and more branches.

Gardening requires love, care, and patience. Start with just a few varieties, maybe three to four hardy ones that require minimal maintenance. Once you’ve got the hang of it, you can expand to more types. If you’re considering bulbs, start with options like freesias, liliums, and ixias, which are easier to grow.

Flowers grown from seeds may take about two months to bloom, though some can take longer. Mulching the soil around them can protect against frost and retain warmth.

Winter Flower Suggestions

For a colourful winter garden, try planting these flowers:

• Alyssum, Acroclinum, Brachycome, Begonia, Candytuft, Calendula
• Carnation, Cineraria, Cornflower, Dahlia, Dianthus, Daisy
• Gazania, Gerbera, Hollyhocks, Helichrysum, Linum, Lupin, Larkspur
• Pansy, Petunia, Ranunculus, Salvia, Sweet Peas, Sweet Sultan

You can also experiment with some kitchen seeds like poppy, nigella, sesame, and aniseed. These will attract butterflies and small birds, bringing even more life to your garden.

Vegetable Planting Calendar

November

North India: Turnip, Tomato, Radish, Pepper, Peas, Beet

South India: Beet, Eggplant, Cabbage, Carrot, Beans, Lettuce, Melon, Okra, Turnip

December

North India: Tomato

South India: Lettuce, Pumpkin, Watermelon, Muskmelon, Ash Gourd, Ridge Gourd, Bitter Gourd, Bottle Gourd, Cucumber, Chilli, Cabbage

Finally, regular spraying of bio-enzymes can help keep pests at bay, keeping your garden healthy and thriving.

Happy gardening, and enjoy the journey of nurturing and growing!

Rama Tyagi
tyagirama1@gmail.com

🌺 पतझड़ (फॉल) में उष्णकटिबंधीय पौधों को खुश और स्वस्थ रखने के 5 आसान तरीके

जैसे ही पतझड़ का मौसम आता है, हल्की ठंड और छोटे दिन हमारे उष्णकटिबंधीय (tropical) पौधों को प्रभावित करने लगते हैं। जो पौधे गर्म और नम वातावरण में पनपते हैं, वे अचानक से बदलते मौसम में मुरझाए हुए या ढीले लगने लगते हैं।
 लेकिन थोड़ी-सी सावधानी और कुछ आसान उपाय अपनाकर आप अपने पौधों को पूरे मौसम में हरा-भरा और ताजगी से भरा रख सकते हैं।

🌤️ 1. सुबह की हल्की धूप दें

पतझड़ के दिनों में रोशनी कम हो जाती है, इसलिए पौधों को जितनी भी धूप मिल सके, वह बहुत जरूरी है।
 पूर्व दिशा (East-facing) की खिड़कियों के पास पौधे रखें — जहाँ उन्हें कोमल सुबह की धूप मिले और तेज दोपहर की धूप से बचाव हो सके।

अगर आपके पास पूर्वमुखी खिड़की नहीं है, तो दक्षिणमुखी खिड़की पर पतला पर्दा (sheer curtain) लगा दें, ताकि प्रकाश नरम और संतुलित रहे।
 हर सप्ताह गमले को थोड़ा घुमाते रहें ताकि पौधे के सभी हिस्सों को समान रूप से रोशनी मिले।

अगर पौधा खिड़की की ओर झुकने लगे, तो यह संकेत है कि उसे और प्रकाश चाहिए। बस उसे थोड़ा और पास रखें — सुबह की नरम धूप पौधों को ऊर्जा देती है और उनकी हरियाली बरकरार रखती है।

💧 2. तापमान घटने पर पानी धीरे-धीरे कम करें

जैसे-जैसे ठंड बढ़ती है, पौधों की वृद्धि धीमी हो जाती है और उन्हें पानी की जरूरत भी कम पड़ती है।  इसलिए पानी देना अचानक बंद न करें, बल्कि धीरे-धीरे अंतराल बढ़ाएँ।

हर बार पानी देने से पहले मिट्टी की ऊपरी परत (1 इंच) को उंगली से जाँचें — अगर वह सूखी लगे तभी पानी दें।  कमरे के तापमान का पानी प्रयोग करें; ठंडा पानी जड़ों को झटका दे सकता है।

हमेशा गमले की निचली तरफ जल निकास (drainage) का प्रबंध रखें ताकि पानी जमा न रहे, वरना जड़ सड़न (root rot) की समस्या हो सकती है।

सर्दियों या पतझड़ में थोड़ा कम पानी देना ज़्यादा पानी देने से कहीं बेहतर होता है।

🌫️ 3. नमी (Humidity) बनाए रखें

हीटर या ठंडी हवाओं के कारण घर के अंदर की हवा सूखी हो जाती है, जिससे उष्णकटिबंधीय पौधों की पत्तियाँ भूरी और कुरकुरी होने लगती हैं।
 इसे रोकने के लिए कमरे में 50–60% नमी बनाए रखना ज़रूरी है।

अगर संभव हो तो humidifier (नमी यंत्र) का उपयोग करें। इसे पौधों के पास रखें, लेकिन सीधे उन पर नहीं।
 अगर humidifier नहीं है, तो पौधों को पास-पास रखें या उनके पास पानी से भरी एक ट्रे रख दें। इससे प्राकृतिक रूप से हवा में नमी बनी रहती है।

नियमित नमी पत्तियों को कोमल, चमकदार और स्वस्थ बनाए रखती है।

✂️ 4. सूखी या पीली पत्तियाँ काटें

हर हफ्ते अपने पौधों को ध्यान से देखें। अगर कोई पत्ती सूखी, पीली या सड़ी हुई लगती है, तो साफ़ कैंची से उसे काट दें।

यह पौधे की ऊर्जा बचाता है और उसे नई, हरी पत्तियाँ निकालने में मदद करता है।
 ट्रिमिंग के समय पौधों में कीड़े या धब्बों की भी जाँच करें।
 हर बार कैंची को साफ़ रखना न भूलें, ताकि कोई रोग एक पौधे से दूसरे में न फैले।

साफ-सुथरे पौधे न सिर्फ़ स्वस्थ रहते हैं, बल्कि आपके घर या बालकनी को भी ताज़गी से भर देते हैं।

🌿 5. हल्का पोषण (Fertilizer) देते रहें

भले ही पतझड़ में पौधों की वृद्धि धीमी हो जाती है, फिर भी उन्हें थोड़ी-सी पोषण की ज़रूरत होती है।
 हर चार हफ्ते में एक बार संतुलित तरल खाद (Balanced Liquid Fertilizer) दें।

खाद देने से पहले मिट्टी को थोड़ा गीला कर लें, ताकि जड़ों को जलन न हो।
 बहुत ज़्यादा खाद देने से मिट्टी में लवण (salts) जमा हो जाते हैं, जिससे जड़ें कमजोर हो सकती हैं।

थोड़ी मात्रा में, लेकिन नियमित रूप से पोषण देने से पौधे की पत्तियाँ सुदृढ़ और चमकदार रहती हैं।

🌱 पतझड़ में पौधों की ज़रूरतों को समझें

उष्णकटिबंधीय पौधे गर्म और नम इलाकों के होते हैं। इसलिए पतझड़ में ठंडा और शुष्क वातावरण उनके लिए चुनौतीपूर्ण हो सकता है।
 अगर आप ध्यान दें तो कुछ संकेत दिखने लगते हैं — मुरझाई पत्तियाँ, धीमी वृद्धि, या पत्तियों का झड़ना।

महत्वपूर्ण देखभाल सुझाव:

• पौधों को ठंडी हवा या ड्राफ्ट से बचाएँ।
• अगर रात का तापमान 13°C (55°F) से नीचे जाने लगे तो पौधों को अंदर ले आएँ।
• गमलों को नियमित रूप से घुमाते रहें ताकि हर दिशा में रोशनी मिले।
• पत्तियों को गीले कपड़े से साफ़ करें ताकि वे अच्छी तरह प्रकाश संश्लेषण कर सकें।

🌼 सामान्य पतझड़ समस्याएँ और उनके उपाय

1. ज़्यादा पानी देना:
 अगर मिट्टी हमेशा गीली रहती है और पत्तियाँ पीली पड़ रही हैं, तो यह अधिक पानी का संकेत है। केवल तभी पानी दें जब ऊपरी मिट्टी सूख जाए।

2. तापमान में उतार-चढ़ाव:
 पौधों को खिड़कियों, दरवाज़ों या एसी/हीटर के पास न रखें। ठंडी रातों में उन्हें थोड़ी अंदर की ओर खिसका दें।

3. सूखी हवा:
 पौधों को पास रखें या पानी की ट्रे रखें ताकि वातावरण में नमी बनी रहे।

🌸 निष्कर्ष

पतझड़ का मौसम भले ही ठंडा हो, लेकिन आपके उष्णकटिबंधीय पौधे थोड़ी देखभाल से पूरे मौसम में ताजगी से भरपूर रह सकते हैं।
 हल्की धूप, नियंत्रित पानी, उचित नमी और समय-समय पर पोषण — यही चार मंत्र हैं जो आपके पौधों को इस मौसम में भी जीवंत और सुंदर बनाए रखेंगे।

हरे पौधे सिर्फ़ सजावट नहीं, बल्कि हमारे घरों की सांस हैं।
 थोड़ा ध्यान, थोड़ी मोहब्बत, और आपका छोटा-सा गार्डन पतझड़ में भी मुस्कुराता रहेगा। 🌿🌼

NASTRATIUM GROWING TIPS

Nastratium (Tropaeolum) is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the family Tropaeolaceae. It is native to South and Central America but has gained popularity worldwide due to its stunning flowers and numerous benefits. Here are some reasons why you should consider growing nasturtium in your garden.

Dazzling Colors: Nasturtiums come in a wide range of vibrant colours, including shades of red, orange, yellow, and cream. The bright blooms are sure to add a pop of colour to your garden and create a visually stunning display.

Edible Leaves and Flowers: Not only are nasturtium flowers visually appealing, but they are also edible! The leaves and flowers have a peppery flavour, similar to watercress, making them a delightful addition to salads, sandwiches, and garnishes.

Attracts Beneficial Insects: Nasturtiums act as natural magnets for beneficial insects such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. By planting nasturtiums in your garden, you can encourage pollination and create a thriving ecosystem.

Medicinal Properties: Nasturtiums have been used for centuries in traditional medicine due to their antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. They are believed to boost the immune system, aid in digestion, and even act as a natural remedy for respiratory issues.

Now that you know why nasturtium is a fantastic choice for your garden let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of growing and caring for this remarkable plant.

Planting Nasturtium Seeds

If you’re ready to embark on a journey of growing nasturtium, the first step is to plant the seeds. Follow these simple steps to ensure successful germination and healthy growth:

Choose the Right Location: Nasturtiums thrive in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Select a location in your garden that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

Prepare the Soil: Nasturtiums prefer well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Before planting, enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost or aged manure to improve fertility and drainage.

Sow the Seeds: Nasturtium seeds are large and easy to handle. Plant the seeds directly into the prepared soil, spacing them 8 to 12 inches apart. Sow the seeds at a depth of 1 inch and cover lightly with soil.

Watering and Maintenance: After planting, water the seeds thoroughly and keep the soil consistently moist until germination occurs. Once the plants are established, water them when the top inch of the soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.

Thinning and Transplanting: When the seedlings have grown a few inches tall, thin them out, leaving the healthiest plants with adequate space to grow. If desired, you can also transplant the seedlings into containers or hanging baskets.

Caring for Nasturtium Plants

Nasturtiums are relatively low-maintenance plants, making them suitable for both novice and experienced gardeners. Follow these care tips to keep your nasturtiums healthy and blooming:

Watering: Nasturtiums prefer moderate watering. Keep the soil evenly moist but avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root diseases. Water at the base of the plants prevents wetting of the leaves, which can promote fungal infections.

Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or wood chips, around the base of the plants. Mulching helps retain moisture, suppress weed growth, and regulate soil temperature.

Fertilizing: Nasturtiums are light feeders and do not require excessive fertilization. A balanced, all-purpose fertilizer applied once a month during the growing season is sufficient to provide the necessary nutrients.

Support and Training: Nasturtiums are known for their trailing or climbing growth habit. If you want to guide their growth, provide trellises, stakes, or other supports for them to climb on.

Deadheading: Regularly remove faded flowers to promote continuous blooming and prevent the plant from going to seed prematurely. This process, known as deadheading, redirects the plant’s energy into producing new blooms.

By following these care guidelines, you can ensure that your nasturtiums remain healthy, vigorous, and full of blooms. But how and when can you harvest those delightful flowers and leaves? Let’s find out!

Harvesting Nasturtium Flowers

The vibrant flowers of nasturtium not only add beauty to your garden but also serve as a tasty addition to your culinary creations. Here’s how you can harvest nasturtium flowers:

Timing: Nasturtium flowers are at their peak when they are fully open and have vibrant colours. Wait until the morning dew has dried before harvesting.

Pinching Method: Gently pinch the stem just below the flower head, taking care not to damage the plant. This method allows you to harvest individual flowers without disturbing the rest of the plant.

Quantity: Harvest the flowers as needed, but leave some blooms on the plant to continue blooming and attracting beneficial insects.

Harvesting Nasturtium Leaves

The peppery leaves of nasturtium are a delightful addition to salads, sandwiches, and other dishes. Follow these steps to harvest nasturtium leaves:

Timing: Nasturtium leaves can be harvested at any stage of growth. However, for the best flavour, it is recommended to harvest them when they are young and tender.

Selective Picking: Choose a few leaves from each plant, starting from the outermost leaves. Avoid stripping all the leaves from a single plant, as it can weaken the plant’s overall growth.

Rinse and Store: Rinse the harvested leaves gently under cold water to remove any dirt or insects. Pat them dry with a paper towel and store them in a sealed container in the refrigerator. They can stay fresh for up to a week.

Now that you know how to harvest nasturtium flowers and leaves let’s explore the culinary possibilities of this versatile plant.

Edible Delights with Nasturtium

Nasturtiums not only offer a visual feast but also tantalize your taste buds with their unique flavour. Here are some delicious ways to incorporate nasturtium into your culinary adventures:

Sensational Salads: Add nasturtium flowers and leaves to your salads for a peppery, zesty kick. They pair exceptionally well with other greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and citrus fruits. The vibrant colours of the flowers make your salad visually appealing too!

Flavorful Vinegars: Create infused vinegars by steeping nasturtium flowers in white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. The resulting vinegar adds a tangy and slightly spicy flavour to dressings, marinades, and sauces.

Gourmet Garnishes: Use nasturtium flowers and leaves as a garnish for soups, appetizers, and main dishes. Their vibrant colours and peppery taste elevate the visual appeal and flavour profile of your culinary creations.

Stuffed Delicacies: Fill nasturtium flowers with savoury fillings such as cream cheese, goat cheese, or flavoured spreads. These stuffed flowers make elegant and eye-catching appetizers for parties and gatherings.

Piquant Pesto: Prepare a unique and flavorful pesto by replacing traditional basil with nasturtium leaves. Blend the leaves with garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil for a peppery twist on this classic sauce.

With these culinary ideas, you can unleash your creativity in the kitchen and savour the unique flavours of nasturtium.

(adopted from the internet)

MISSION ‘SCHOOL NUTRITION GARDEN’ (SNG)

All of us are aware that our society is actively pursuing the mission SNG vigorously in the Delhi NCR areas. Very recently, we were invited to start SNG at Shaheed Raj Singh Khatan Senior Secondary School at Damdama, Haryana.

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🍅 टमाटरों में ग्रीन शोल्डर की समस्या

परिचय

टमाटर खेती में अक्सर एक समस्या दिखाई देती है जिसे ग्रीन शोल्डर कहा जाता है। इसमें टमाटर का ऊपरी भाग (शोल्डर) पूरी तरह लाल नहीं हो पाता और हरा बना रहता है, जबकि फल का बाकी हिस्सा पक चुका होता है। किसान इसे अक्सर अपरिपक्वता या अधपकापन समझ लेते हैं, लेकिन वास्तव में यह रंगद्रव्य (pigment) चयापचय की गड़बड़ी है।

ग्रीन शोल्डर क्यों होता है?

🍃 सामान्य परिस्थितियों में टमाटर पकने के समय क्लोरोफिल (हरा रंग) टूट जाता है और उसकी जगह लाल रंग का लाइकोपीन (lycopene) और बैंगनी-लाल रंग का एंथोसाइनिन (anthocyanin) बनने लगता है।
 लेकिन ग्रीन शोल्डर के मामलों में यह प्रक्रिया बाधित हो जाती है।

मुख्य कारण हैं –

1. असंतुलित पोषण – पोटाश, मैग्नीशियम और सूक्ष्म पोषक तत्वों (बोरॉन, कैल्शियम) की कमी।
2. पर्यावरणीय तनाव – तेज़ धूप और अधिक तापमान।
3. अनुवांशिक कारण – कुछ किस्में इस समस्या के प्रति अधिक संवेदनशील होती हैं।
4. जल प्रबंधन की कमी – असमान सिंचाई से पौधों पर दबाव बढ़ता है।

समस्या के लक्षण

• फल के ऊपरी हिस्से पर हरे धब्बे या हरी परत रह जाती है।
• फल पूरी तरह पका हुआ दिखता है लेकिन रंग असमान होता है।
• कई बार गूदे में भी धारियाँ या असमान पकना दिखाई देता है।

निवारण के उपाय

✅ संतुलित पोषण

• पोटाश और मैग्नीशियम का पर्याप्त प्रयोग करें।
• सूक्ष्म पोषक तत्व जैसे बोरॉन और कैल्शियम दें।

✅ सिंचाई प्रबंधन

• नियमित और समान मात्रा में पानी दें।
• अधिक नमी और लंबे सूखे की स्थिति से बचाएँ।

✅ धूप और तापमान नियंत्रण

• गर्मियों में शेड नेट (shade net) का प्रयोग करें।
• मल्चिंग से मिट्टी ठंडी और नम बनी रहती है।

✅ किस्म का चयन

• स्थानीय रूप से परखी गई और रोग-प्रतिरोधी किस्में चुनें।

✅ सहायक पौधों का प्रयोग

• गेंदा, तुलसी और अन्य साथी पौधे लगाने से पौधों का स्वास्थ्य अच्छा रहता है और कीटों पर भी नियंत्रण मिलता है।

निष्कर्ष

ग्रीन शोल्डर टमाटरों में एक आम समस्या है, लेकिन सही पोषण प्रबंधन, सिंचाई, तापमान नियंत्रण और अच्छी किस्मों के चयन से इसे काफी हद तक रोका जा सकता है। समय पर ध्यान देने से टमाटर की गुणवत्ता और बाजार मूल्य दोनों बढ़ते हैं।

रमा त्यागी

tyagirama1@gmail.com

मिर्च के फलों में विकृति और कड़वाहट के कारण

🔹 मिर्च का पौधा गर्मी (Heat) के प्रति बहुत संवेदनशील होता है।

ज्यादा तापमान में फल में मिठास कम हो जाती है और कड़वाहट आ जाती है।

ऐसा इसलिए होता है क्योंकि शर्करा (चीनी) का उत्पादन रुक जाता है और कड़वे तत्व (अल्कलॉइड व फिनॉल) बढ़ जाते हैं।

🔹 फल टेढ़े-मेढ़े या बिगड़े हुए दिखें तो अक्सर किसान कीटों (थ्रिप्स, एफिड) को कारण मान लेते हैं।

कीट नुकसान करते हैं, पर फल के विकृत होने का असली कारण ज्यादातर पोषण की कमी होती है।

🔹 गर्मी और पानी का तनाव (Heat-water stress) भी बड़ी समस्या है।

लंबे समय तक इस तनाव से फल नरम हो जाते हैं, जल्दी खराब होते हैं और स्टोर करने योग्य नहीं रहते।

🔹 हाइड्रोपोनिक खेती (बिना मिट्टी वाली) में अगर पोषण का संतुलन बिगड़ा तो तुरंत असर दिखाई देता है।

इसमें मिट्टी जैसा सहारा नहीं होता, इसलिए छोटी सी गलती से भी पौधा और फल प्रभावित हो जाते हैं।

क्या करें?

✅ सिर्फ एक कारण को देखकर निष्कर्ष न निकालें।

✅ पौधे की पूरी जाँच करें – पोषक तत्व, पानी, तापमान और कीट सबको ध्यान में रखें।

✅ असली कारण पहचानकर ही उपचार करें।

👉 अगर आपकी मिर्च की फसल में ऐसे लक्षण दिख रहे हैं, तो अनुमान न लगाएँ। सही कारण पता करके ही समस्या को दोबारा होने से रोका जा सकता है।

रमा त्यागी

tyagirama1@gmail.com.

7 TYPES OF WILDLIFE TRAFFICKING IN INDIA

With the increasing efficiency of travel modes, it has become easier than ever for wildlife trafficking to become one of the largest forms of transnational organised crime today. Airports, especially, have emerged as a popular route for transporting wildlife contrabands due to the shorter travel time and wider global reach.  India plays the role of a source and transit to meet the growing demands for illegal wildlife products across the world.

Elephant Tusks – Ivory

Despite the ivory trade being banned since 1986, India’s elephants continue to fall prey to poaching for their tusks every year. Poaching has serious consequences for Asian elephants, which are already threats to their existence with habitat loss, human-animal conflict and accidental deaths on railway tracks and roads in India. Unlike the African species, only the males of the species bear tusks in Asian elephants; this leads to selective poaching that skews the gender ratio in elephant populations across India.

Tortoises

The Indian star tortoise is the most trafficked reptile in the world. Stuffed into suitcases, shopping bags and boxes, Indian star tortoises are trafficked every year from their native India and Sri Lanka to destinations as far as Southeast Asia, Europe and the United States. They are used as exotic pets or lucky charms, as it is a belief in parts of Southeast Asia that these tortoises bring luck.

Pangolins

India is a major hub for pangolin trafficking. Listed as an endangered species on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, this animal is hunted for meat and scales, generally used in traditional medicine. The increase in global trafficking has accelerated its poaching. The animals and their scales are smuggled through India to China and other countries via Myanmar. Even with the imposition of a ban on poaching these animals, approximately 6000 pangolins were poached in India between 2009 and 2017, with Manipur and Tamil Nadu being hotspots for pangolin smuggling, according to wildlife trade monitoring network TRAFFIC’s 2018 report.

Tigers

According to the World Wise data for the period between 2007 and 2018, India and Thailand are the main source countries for the international tiger parts trade. The body parts are primarily used for medicinal purposes across the world. The biggest destination for tiger parts is China, followed by Thailand and Vietnam. The most sought-after tiger parts include the bones, which are thought to heal bone, joint and ligament injuries in humans. In some regions of China, tiger body parts are delicacies served at special private banquets.

Rhino Horn Trading

Over the past decade, the poaching of rhinos for their horns has grown into a global criminal enterprise. A smuggling route from India to Southeast Asia and China via Myanmar appears to be increasing – there is a risk that this could grow as a major threat to Asian rhinos. Rhino horns fetch a high price for their uses in traditional medicines, and are also highly sought-after as status symbols.

Mongoose Fur

As many paintbrush brands use mongoose hair for the bristles, more than 50,000 mongooses are killed every year. India is a major source of illegal mongoose hair export. The country’s 6 mongoose species are protected under Schedule II Part II of India’s Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The Indian grey mongoose is the most hunted. Most of India’s mongoose hair paintbrushes are produced in Sherkot, Uttar Pradesh. Apart from the prohibition of trade in mongoose body parts, the punishment for using these brushes is up to seven years imprisonment or a hefty fine.

Birds

The trade of wild birds was banned in 1990-91 in India, but the trafficking of birds continues to flourish. The Rose-ringed parakeet, Alexandrine parakeet and Plum-headed parakeet are three of the country’s most traded birds. These birds are commonly kept as pets in households. Owls are also often found in the wildlife trade in India. These birds are trapped primarily for sacrifice and use in black magic rituals.

Unless the illicit trafficking, smuggling and trade of wild animals are battled with higher intensity and efforts, several wildlife populations will remain under threat. Increased conservation and protection efforts for endangered species are crucial for maintaining a healthy ecosystem across the country, and the world.

(courtesy EARTH BRIGADE FOUNDATION)

Shifting Plants Indoors to Save Them from Winter

As winter approaches, it becomes essential to protect delicate outdoor plants from the cold. Many tropical and semi-tropical plants cannot survive freezing temperatures, so moving them indoors is a practical way to ensure they stay healthy until spring.

Before bringing plants inside, check them for pests and prune any damaged or dead leaves. Gently clean the pots and soil surface to prevent insects from spreading indoors. Place the plants near windows where they can receive adequate sunlight, but keep them away from cold drafts or direct heat sources.

Water them sparingly during winter, as most plants grow slowly in cooler months. Maintain humidity by misting the leaves or placing a small tray of water nearby.

Shifting plants indoors not only keeps them alive but also fills your home with greenery and freshness throughout the cold season. With a little care, they’ll thrive and be ready to return outdoors when spring arrives.
Happy Gardening.
By Hakeem Shfaq
Srinagar

How to Plant Trees in Fall: A Step-by-Step Guide

Fall ( October -November )is one of the best times to plant trees. The cooler temperatures, moist soil, and the time left before winter all provide ideal conditions for tree roots to establish strong growth. Whether you’re planting a bare-root, container-grown, or balled-and-burlapped tree, this guide will walk you through the essential steps to ensure your tree thrives.

Why Fall is the Best Time to Plant Trees

Fall planting offers several advantages:

Root Growth: Trees planted in fall have the entire winter to establish their root system before the warmer spring temperatures encourage new growth. The roots begin to grow as soon as they make contact with moist soil and continue to grow as long as the soil temperature stays above 40°F (4°C).

Soil Conditions: Fall soil is usually just moist enough to be easily worked, making it less likely to become compacted, unlike the dry, hard soil in spring.

Less Disruption from Weather: If you’re in an area with heavy snow, planting in fall allows you to avoid dealing with snowmelt or the resulting mud that can occur in spring.

Choosing the Right Tree for Fall Planting

There are three main types of trees you’ll find at nurseries: bare-root, container-grown, and balled-and-burlapped.

1. Bare-root trees:

• These trees are dug up in late fall or early spring while they are dormant.
• They are usually cheaper and lighter, making them easier to ship.
• Bare-root trees allow you to see the condition of the roots and inspect them for any damage or disease.

2. Container-grown trees:

Grown in pots, these trees are easy to transport.

Make sure to check the roots to ensure they haven’t become root-bound (too tangled or circling the pot).

3. burlapped trees:

These trees come with a ball of soil wrapped in burlap, which helps to preserve the root system during transportation.

Typically, these trees are heavier, making them more difficult to plant without machinery.

Step-by-Step Tree Planting Process

1. Choose the Right Site

Consider the tree’s need for sunlight, space, and soil type. Make sure to plant in an area where the tree can grow without obstruction.

Pay attention to drainage; standing water can harm your tree’s roots.

2. Check Soil Conditions

Ensure that the soil is not too wet or dry. It should be just moist enough to crumble when you squeeze it in your hand.

3. Dig the Hole

The hole should be about twice the diameter of the root ball and no deeper than necessary.

If the tree is planted too deep, water will pool around the trunk, leading to rot.

4. Remove Sod or Surface Vegetation

If planting in a grassy area, use a shovel to cut and remove the sod.

If planting in an established garden, scrape back any mulch to expose the soil.

5. Prepare the Tree Roots

For bare-root trees, prune away any damaged or diseased roots and shorten any that are too long.

For container-grown trees, gently remove the tree from its pot and untangle any circling roots. If the roots are tightly packed, make four cuts down the sides of the root ball.

For balled-and-burlapped trees, ensure that you remove as much burlap as possible, especially if it’s synthetic, which can strangle the tree.

6. Place the Tree in the Hole

Position the tree in the center of the hole, ensuring the root flare (where the roots meet the trunk) is at or slightly above soil level.

7. Backfill the Hole

Begin backfilling with soil, gently working it in around the roots to eliminate air pockets.

Water the soil as you backfill to help settle it around the roots.

8. Mulch

Apply a 3-inch layer of mulch around the base of the tree, ensuring it doesn’t touch the trunk. Mulch helps retain moisture, insulates the soil, and prevents weed growth.

Use wood chips or straw for mulch. Avoid piling mulch up against the tree trunk, as this can lead to rot.

9. Stake the Tree (if necessary)

If the tree is tall or planted in a windy area, staking may be necessary for the first year to help it establish.

Use soft material like fabric or padded wire to avoid damaging the trunk.

10. Water

Deeply water the tree after planting and continue to water it regularly during the fall and winter if necessary. This helps the tree establish its roots.

Tree Care After Planting

Watering: Ensure the tree receives about 1 gallon of water per week for every square foot of root spread. This is especially important in the first few years as the tree establishes its roots.

Mulch Maintenance: Keep the mulch layer intact and add more as needed. Avoid disturbing the roots or the trunk while adding mulch.

Weed Control: Keep the area around the tree free from weeds to reduce competition for nutrients and water.

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By following these steps, your tree will have the best chance to establish a strong root system over the winter and be ready to thrive in the coming spring. Happy planting!

Happy Gardening

Rama Tyagi

tyagirama1@gmail.com

Wood Ash: A Natural Fertilizer for Your Garden

(Adapted from Better Homes & Gardens, October 2025)

Wood ash, the fine gray powder left after burning firewood, can be a valuable addition to your garden when used wisely. Rich in essential nutrients like calcium, potassium, and phosphorus, it helps improve soil fertility and reduce waste — turning your winter fireplace ashes into summer garden benefits.

🌿 1. Balances Soil pH

Wood ash has a naturally high pH (10–12), which makes it useful for neutralizing acidic soils. It works similarly to lime. However, avoid using it around acid-loving plants such as azaleas, camellias, and blueberries, which prefer lower pH soil. Always test your soil first before application.

🍅 2. Fertilizes Vegetable Gardens

Wood ash contains up to 50% calcium, which strengthens plant cell walls and prevents blossom end rot in tomatoes, peppers, and squash. It also supplies potassium (5–7%) and phosphorus (1.5–2%), essential for flowering and fruiting. However, if your soil already has a balanced pH, opt for other fertilizers that won’t alter it.

🌱 3. Mix Before Planting

Never apply wood ash directly to roots or seedlings — its alkalinity can harm them. Mix the ash well with soil before planting to prevent root burn and ensure even nutrient distribution.

♻️ 4. Add to Compost

A handful of wood ash mixed into compost every few layers helps reduce acidity and encourages beneficial worms. Avoid overuse, as too much can make compost overly alkaline. Do not use ash from coal, treated wood, or charcoal briquettes, as they may contain harmful chemicals.

🌏 5. Eco-Friendly Gardening

Recycling fireplace ash reduces waste and dependence on chemical fertilizers. It’s a sustainable, low-cost way to enrich your garden naturally while lowering your carbon footprint.

In short: Wood ash, when used in moderation, can enrich your soil, balance acidity, and nourish your plants — a perfect example of turning waste into wellness for your garden.

Happy Gardening

Rama Tyagi

tyagirama1@gmail.com.

Climate Change and Resilient Vegetable Gardens

Climate change is causing unpredictable weather patterns — longer dry spells, sudden heavy rains, temperature extremes, and new pest attacks. These changes directly affect the growth, yield, and health of vegetable crops. To ensure food security and sustainability, gardeners and farmers must create “resilient vegetable gardens” — gardens that can adapt, recover, and continue producing even in adverse conditions.

🌍 1. What is a Climate-Resilient Vegetable Garden?

A climate-resilient vegetable garden is designed and managed in a way that minimizes the negative impact of climate stress (heat, drought, floods, pests) while maintaining steady production.
It uses smart planting methods, diverse crops, organic soil management, and water-efficient systems to adapt to changing conditions.

🌱 2. Key Features of a Resilient Garden

a. Crop Diversity

• Grow a variety of vegetables — leafy greens, root crops, legumes, and climbers — instead of monocropping.
• Diversity ensures that if one crop fails due to a pest or weather event, others still survive.
• Examples: Grow okra, spinach, beans, gourds, and amaranth together.

b. Drought-Resistant and Heat-Tolerant Varieties

• Choose vegetables suited to high temperatures and low water conditions, such as:
  • Cluster beans, bottle gourd, cowpea, okra, and spinach in summer.
  • Drumstick, sweet potato, ridge gourd for dry zones.

c. Mulching and Composting

• Cover soil with dry leaves, straw, or compost to retain moisture and regulate temperature.
• Compost improves soil fertility and water-holding capacity, reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers.

d. Water Management

• Adopt drip irrigation, rainwater harvesting, and greywater reuse systems.
• Water early morning or evening to reduce evaporation losses.

e. Shade and Wind Protection

• Use shade nets, creepers, or tall plants (like maize or sunflower) to protect tender vegetables from harsh sun and wind.

f. Organic and Natural Practices

• Use bio-pesticides, neem spray, and cow dung-based fertilizers instead of chemicals to keep soil alive and resilient.
• Encourage beneficial insects and earthworms.

🍅 3. Seasonal and Local Adaptation

• Choose local and indigenous varieties—they are naturally adapted to local climate and soil conditions.
• Example: Desi varieties of tomato, brinjal, and chili tolerate heat and pests better than hybrids.

🌾 4. Community and Urban Adaptation

• Encourage kitchen gardens and terrace gardens in cities to reduce dependency on long-distance transport and storage.
• School and community gardens teach resilience and local food security practices.

💧 5. Long-Term Benefits

• Reduces vulnerability to climate shocks.
• Improves soil health and biodiversity.
• Ensures steady home food supply and better nutrition.
• Promotes sustainable, eco-friendly living.

In short:
A climate-resilient vegetable garden is nature-friendly, diverse, and self-sustaining — capable of withstanding changing weather while feeding families and protecting the planet. 🌿