That better place than a beautiful park to have the monthly meeting of Aikga? The November meeting was held on the 18th at the W block park in gk2. The set-ting sun amidst the greenery set the mood, although pollution levels were high , the green ambience seemed to mitigate it.
The speaker was none other than Anurag Srivastava – an undisputed authority on growing flowering bulbs. Winters are the best time to grow these floral beauties with little or minimal care. Anurag explained in great detail the growing techniques, including growing in different mediums – soil and water. Many shy away from growing bulbs, thinking that it requires an immense effort and comparatively poor results.
However, a live demonstration helped the members get a feel on the ease of growing bulbs. Containers, soil mix, fertilizing for better flowering, pest control, planting technique – he covered all the topics. Sharing his vast experience and knowledge, he explained in simple terms, making it look like child’s play. He has been growing exotic varieties like tulips, iris, Dutch lilies, oriental & asiatic lilies in his home in Noida. Pictures of blooms from the previous season had the audience awestruck and mesmerized.
Much to the delight of everyone, he brought with him many varieties of bulbs, including exotic ones, which members could buy on the spot. The meeting was followed by light snacks and tea accompanied with delicious home made cake by the new convenor Rashmi Bakshi. To sum it up – a knowledgeable and enjoyable evening spent in the company of green friends.
