Down to Earth

Growth of unwanted plants on the rooftops and walls is not new.

Growth of unwanted plants on the rooftops and walls is not new. Most of the times these are plants belonging to the Ficus species,which are very hardy and spread their roots in the crevices. If not removed in time,they may penetrate deep in the roof and cause cracks and leakages. Therefore,these should be removed at the earliest. However,when these appear at a harmless location,one could consider them to be a piece of art (in the picture). The trees from the Ficus species grow very big and high,so it is essential to keep them in control. In order to retain them as a work of art,the growth from the top should be maintained and it can be shaped.

I have used kalli patti as the border plant in one corner along with Duranta. I have been informed that kalli patti dies during winter. Is there a way to protect it?

Manohar Singh,Chandigarh

Do not let the kalli patti (Iresin) grow more than three to four inches high and give it adequate water during winter. It will not die.

The kinnow fruit that was dropping from the tree till a few days back has now stopped falling. Will it start falling again or do I need to do something to prevent it?

Satnam Singh,Mohali

In all probability it will not fall anymore. Give another spray of bavistin dissolve one gram with one liter of water.

I want to grow nasturtium in baskets. Is it a good idea? What other winter annuals can I grow in baskets?
Rashmi,Panchkula

Growing nasturtium in a basket is a good idea. You could also grow other short stature winter annuals,including dwarf marigold,sweet alyssum,pansy,daisy,mesembryanthemum (burf,in case the basket is kept at a low level).

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Can I get red phlox from somewhere? I want to fit it in a colour combination.
Resham Singh,Mohali

Winter annuals are available almost at almost all places. Try some good seed shop.

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

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