Down to Earth

The time to plant strawberries is approaching fast.

The time to plant strawberries is approaching fast. It is alright if you know the source of runners,otherwise you will have to tell your neighbourhood nursery in advance to arrange these for you as he will also take time to procure them. You can plant strawberry in pots too. The plants are protected in winters and they give berries in February-March. The berries need to be protected from coming in direct contact with moisture as the plant is very small-statured and almost trails on the ground. This is done by laying some straw under it and which is why the fruit is called strawberry. The bearing plants are very ornamental.

Can you suggest a tree which is not high growing and also does not shed leaves? I want to plant it in my lawn.

Raghubir Singh,Chandigarh

You can plant plumeria obtuse or pagoda tree that meets your requirements. Buy the one with small plastic-like shining leaves that do not shed.

We recently plucked the fruit from our banana tree. A friend was saying that it will not bear fruit again. Is that correct? The quality was good. What should we do to multiply it?

Rajni,Panchkula

Yes,it will not bear fruit again and has to be uprooted but wait till it has an off shoot at the base that will grow to give fruit. It multiplies on its own.

The custard apple plant in my garden is bearing fruits. They are not ready yet. When will they be ready and how do I know?

Rajesh,Chandigarh

The custard apple is ready by October as after this it just keeps hanging on the tree and then dries. So pick up the fruit by the end of this month.

Story continues below this ad

I have a tulsi plant growing outside my house. I want to put it in a pot. Can I do it now? Will it survive?

Rajnish,Chandigarh

Yes,you can transplant it now. But keep it in shade for a few days.

Dr. Satish Narula

For gardening queries ASK DR GREEN at satishnarula@yahoo.co.in

Stay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram