Down to Earth: Dr Satish Narula

Winter annuals come in a large range. However,most of us leave it to the gardener to choose,and as a result,he ends up planting the plants that are easily available or known to him.

Winter annuals come in a large range. However,most of us leave it to the gardener to choose,and as a result,he ends up planting the plants that are easily available or known to him. Mimulus is one such flower that flourishes in winters and is a boon for those who like to brighten up semi-shade corners. Remember that Mimulus needs plenty of water and semi-shade. The flower is nasturtium-like but with maroon or brown spots. The seeds are easily available and the plant is grown like any other winter annual and is planted in September and transplanted in October.

There are ants in my monstera pot and that has affected the growth of the plant. What should I do?

Rita,Chandigarh

As the season is very suitable,it will be better to repot the plant. The soil in the pot,you will notice,will be infested with ants and eggs that keep the pot soil very friable,leading to water loss.

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Due to water stagnation in my chilly bed in the garden,the leaves are sagging and the plants seem to be dying. What should I do to rectify it?

Suresh Garg,Panchkula

Ensure drainage immediately and do not let the water stagnate.

I had transplanted heliconia a fortnight ago. It has not sprouted further as yet. Will it survive? What should I do to ensure its survival?

Raghbir Singh,Mohali

The heliconia has rhizomes in the base and therefore will not die easily. Keep the bed water free. The plant will show signs of growth after establishing itself properly.

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I had planted some of the manihot cuttings in January. They are growing well in pots. Can I transplant these in soil at this time of the year? If so,then what precautions should I take?

Ravi Kant,ChandigarhManihot is a deciduous plant that sheds leaves in winter and that is the right time to transplant it. So wait till the plant sheds leaves during winters.

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

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Raghbir Singh