Journalism of Courage
Who says the fruits are not ornamental and cannot be a part of a landscape or home gardens? In olden times,these were the essential elements of any good garden,especially the Mughal gardens. See the accompanying picture. These are qumquats,the Chinese oranges. They have immense ornamental value. Ordinarily,you see the round ones. As the bearing is very fast and profuse,this plant is also a favourite with bonsai freaks. When planted in soil,it becomes a plant of emphasis in the garden and attracts all eyes. The plant can also be multiplied easily by way of air layering or gooti method. The fruits borne by this plant are edible and are also used to make products.
I want to multiply Euphorbia that bears bold red flowers. What is the procedure and should I do it now or wait till it rains?
Raghbir Singh,Chandigarh
The best time to multiply euphorbia is now and not the rainy season. Make cuttings and keep them like that for about two days,so as to allow the milk to dry.
Then plant it in sand. Keep the medium moist.
In the coming rainy season,I want to plant mangoes. Which variety should I plant for best results? Where can I get quality plants?
Satbir Singh,Mohali
Go in for dasheri or amrapali. You can get good quality plants from some government nursery of state or PAU
Can I plant Aloe vera in a pot? What precautions should I take? Where can I get this plant?
Mohini,Chandigarh
Yes,you can plant Aloe vera in a pot. Make sure that there is no stagnation of water and the drainage is not faulty. You can get this plant from any nursery now.
How can I multiply gardenia and lychee? What precautions should I take?
Satinder Singh,Mohali
Gardenia and lychee can be multiplied by way of cuttings and air layering (gooti) respectively. The polythene cover in case of gooti,should not be damaged and secured properly on both sides.
(For gardening queries ASK DR GREEN at satishnarula@yahoo.co.in)
