Nursery expo to woo nature lovers

Much to the delight of nature lovers, the City will play host to the four-day International Nursery and Landscape Expo that will see participation of as many as 50 nurserymen from all over the country, who will exhibit different varieties of plants and planting techniques.

Beginning today, the second edition of the Expo will be inaugurated by HRD minister Kapil Sibal at National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC) Ground in Okhla. The Expo, organised by Nurserymen Contractors Association, State Nurserymen Welfare Association of Delhi and Redmax Media, will also put on display, some very unique species of plants from all over the world. 

Eminent agriculture scientists and horticulture experts will apprise the visitors of a wide variety of tuber crops, floriculture, ornamental plants, medicinal and aromatic plants, spices, food processing and bee keeping. A special focus will be on commercial aspect of nursery and landscaping; rock planting and orchid floral arrangement, called ikebana. A 50 year old Ficus Retusa, a Bonsai plant, whose USP lies in its little size, will also be a delight for nature and plant lovers.

Rakesh Saini, chairman of the organising committee, says in a country like India where gardening has been mostly been considered a hobby, the Expo seeks to add a commercial dimension.

“We have an age-old tradition of nursery and impressive landscapes but with the rapid pace of urbanisation, having a garden in big cities like Delhi, has become a sort of luxury. The expo will feature varieties of beautiful plants from across the cities that can be grown in pots and home gardens. Some of the unique plant species such as splendid Pitcher Plant, sundews, Makahiya or sensitive plant will also be put as exhibits for common visitors,” he says.

Visitors, who are into horticulture and nursery business, will also have a chance to learn about new products and new trends during the event. Several new techniques and planting methods will also be displayed for small and medium level entrepreneurs.
“Besides, nature lovers, some new techniques and planting methods will also be on display too, for the benefit of entrepreneurs and horticulturists,” he added.