Full bloom: It’s an early spring in Agra this year

Farms and gardens in Agra are in bloom. According to experts, flowers have bloomed earlier than usual --they bloom by March -- this year

Farms and gardens in Agra are in bloom. According to experts, flowers have bloomed earlier than usual --they bloom by March -- this year.

A recent survey carried out by botanists from the Agra Horticulture Club has found that both wild and commercial flowers have bloomed early this year because of a mild winter.

A recent survey carried out by botanists from the Agra Horticulture Club has found that both wild and commercial flowers have bloomed early this year because of a mild winter.

Explaining the reason behind the early blossoming, botanist Dr SR Sharma said, “The spring flowers are better and early this year because the winter was less harsh. Also, the drainage system around the land is good and this helped in the growth of flowers.”

Shailendra Saluja, a farmer from Dayalbagh locality, said, “As compared to last year, the production of flowers has increased this time. Rose, pansy, sweet pea, cineraria and antirrhinum are some of the most popular spring flowers. These flowers are usually planted in farms and are sold at higher rates compared to other varieties.”

According to Saluja, some of the flowers that blossom this season will last only for a month or two.

Another farmer Jagdish said dahlia is also a popular flower of the season.

“Flowers are in demand throughout the year. But during the wedding season and spring, people especially buy saplings and flowers to decorate houses and gardens.”

According to a city-based botanist, one should take some precautions while growing flowers.

“Removing additional buds, keeping the right space between plants and using good quality manure can work wonders for floral plants. These plants need a lot of protection,” the botanist said.