In a ground-breaking initiative, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agriculture Sciences and Technology Kashmir (SKUAST-K) has unveiled a first-of-its-kind flower garden that defies the winter chill.
Dr. Zahoor Bhat, a senior scientist at SKUAST-K’s division of floriculture and landscape architecture, shared that this endeavor showcases the possibility of vibrant flower blossoms even in the crisp winters of Kashmir.
The star of this winter spectacle is the Chrysanthemum, a resilient winter plant that graces the university lawns with its full bloom.
“Chrysanthemum, a winter plant, is in full bloom these days in the university lawns and it adds one more hue to the winter attraction of Kashmir,”
Dr. Bhat expressing his enthusiasm, said.
He added that this initiative aims not only to celebrate the beauty of winter blooms but also to draw tourists to the region during the colder months.
Dr. Bhat drew parallels to the famous Tulip garden, asserting that the Chrysanthemum garden could become a winter counterpart, attracting visitors with its array of colors.
He said that the Chrysanthemum garden, sprawled across approximately 5 Kanals of land, boasts an impressive collection of 41 varieties producing flowers in 20 different colors.
Dr. Bhat revealed plans to elevate this botanical haven to even greater heights in the coming year.
The university received various genotypes of the perennial Chrysanthemum plant through the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) for evaluation under an all-India coordinated research project. Selecting and propagating some of these genotypes, the scientists have successfully cultivated a winter paradise that not only captivates the eye but also serves as a testament to the scientific prowess of the university.
Chrysanthemum, locally known as Gul e Dawood, is more than just a visual delight. With around 177 species, it is a versatile plant used both medicinally and as a cut flower.
Dr. Bhat emphasized that Chrysanthemum, being a pot mum plant, can be cultivated in vases, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of lawns, gardens, and residential spaces.
As winter takes hold and deciduous trees shed their leaves, the Chrysanthemum garden stands as a testament to nature’s ability to surprise and enchant even in the coldest months.
This floral spectacle not only adds a burst of colour to the winter landscape but also establishes SKUAST-K as a pioneer in the fusion of science, nature, and beauty.
