A spectacle of colours, fragrance at agri varsity gardens

Punjab Agricultural University’s (PAU) Spring Garden, located in its landscape nursery has transformed into a floral paradise, bursting with vibrant colours and delicate fragrances. A blend of over 100 indigenous and exotic varieties that are well-labelled, this breathtaking landscape has been meticulously curated using PAU’s rich germ plasm.

While an array of winter annuals meticulously arranged from dwarf to towering varieties greet visitors, the early-blooming tulips create a stunning contrast against a backdrop of lush green foliage with their striking red and cheerful yellow hues.

Dr Satbir Singh Gosal, Vice-Chancellor of the PAU, commended the initiative, stating: “The Spring Garden is not just a visual delight, it evidences university’s commitment to floriculture, biodiversity conservation and sustainable landscaping. We strive to create green spaces that not only beautify but also educate and inspire.”

The garden’s layout and maintenance are a collective effort led by estate officer Dr Rishi Indra Singh Gill; Head, Department of Floriculture and Landscaping, Dr Parminder Singh; landscaping officer, Dr Ranjit Singh; and farm manager (landscaping), Hardeep Singh. Their expertise ensures that each plant thrives in perfect harmony, adding to the scenic grandeur.

Highlighting the meticulous planning behind the garden’s creation, Dr RIS Gill remarked that every section has been carefully designed to maintain balance and symmetry. The inclusion of rare and exotic varieties alongside traditional favourites makes the garden a unique learning and research opportunity, he said.

Among the floral marvels, marigolds in brilliant yellow and deep orange radiate warmth while delicate nemophila, calendulas, gazanias and phlox add subtle charm. Other noteworthy additions include verbena, lupins, statice, dianthus, ornamental tobacco and sweet sultan.

A highlight of the garden is the PAU Tulip Garden, featuring a magnificent array of bulbous plants, including narcissus, gladiolus, ranunculus and hyacinths. Dr Parminder Singh expressed pride in the project, stating that the tulips symbolised their dedication to horticultural excellence. He mentioned that by cultivating these exquisite varieties, they were enhancing the floriculture landscape of the region while providing a spectacular visual treat.

The interplay of colours, textures and scents creates an enchanting ambiance, making this garden a must-visit destination for nature lovers and botanical enthusiasts alike.

PAU has research station in Keylong

Two years ago, the PAU took inspiration from the initiative of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)-Institute of Himalayan Bio-Resource Technology (IHBT) and came up with an idea of having its own tulip garden. The PAU also has its own research station in Keylong, Himachal Pradesh, where they multiply tulips and and re-plant them here.