These beauties have a story to share...

Our capital city New Delhi may take pride in Moghul Gardens of Rashtrapathi Bhavan that continues to beckon VIP guests, being a must see place on their itinerary.

Where as in the case of Mysore, though it takes pride in Brindavan Garden situated in neighbouring district, it has yet another rosy attraction to boast of,  in its womb.

Rose Garden in front of Deputy Commissioner’s office makes for a picturesque view with the good old building in the backdrop. A stretch of road from Government Maharani’s College junction up to the garden, lifts the spirit of strollers or vehicle riders, passing by.

When City Herald went behind the initiatives taken up by the Horticulture Department what came to fore was-it stands best among the only two rose gardens here-maintained by the department. Moreover it has won first prize for two years in a row from 2008 in the particular category at the competition conducted by the department during Dasara. Another garden is developed at K R Hospital.

Assistant Director of Horticulture H C  Shashikala said the garden spread over an area of three quarters of an acre, dates back to a decade having 600 plants comprising different varieties. It includes eight to 10 varieties like Queen Elizabeth, Gladiator, American Home, Superstar, Kings Ransom belonging to the family of highbreed-T to name a few.

Plants are pruned twice or thrice in a year 45 days in advance to facilitate blooming on time, matching with the occasions like- Republic Day, Independence Day and also ‘Naada Habba’ Dasara. At K R Hospital 200 rose plants form the garden developed on a small tract near burns ward.

The stretch that leads to garden has acquired a new look with the cultivation of phosphullum grass on a portion of right side of the footpath from JLB road side and mexican grass on the left. The first type of grass mentioned above was selected as it grows under shade. In addition to this, about 150 to 200 Dattura plants (commonly known as queen’s lantern) have been planted on both the sides.

A few months ago, about 50 plants were brought from Ooty which multiplied here. Pink flowers hang like a tastefully designed lantern, thus justifying its common name, the officer said. This apart, 20 Tecoma Argentia type of plants have been planted to compensate eucalyptus trees that were recently felled.

“From this year, the department stayed away from the contest (rose garden) as it was thought unwise to participate as a host”, Shashikala said.

This garden needs no certificate as it continues to lure youngsters especially the students of women’s college located in a stone’s throw away distance from deputy commissioner’s office, who make merry with roses. After all rose connects well with young denizens.