Monsoon is a season that brings immense joy to any gardener. The season starts from July and extends till September and brings in bountiful growth in plants. But with this plant growth, also comes the growth of unwanted factors like weeds, fungus and even mosquitoes. So, here are 5 tips that can help you and your beloved plants have an enjoyable monsoon.
1. It’s time to grow – The increased levels of humidity accelerates new growth in plants and thus it is the perfect time to propagate plants. Monsoon is also a good time to bring in new plants home from your favourite nursery and create your very own urban jungle. If you have a terrace, you can additionally start terrace gardening as well. Monsoon is that time of the year when you can invest time in growing vegetables like brinjal, cucumbers, gourds and ladyfinger and have them ready before winter arrives.
2. Feed them well – As it is the season of growth, it becomes essential to replenish the soil with nutrients to aid that growth. Fertilisers like vermicompost, seaweed solution, bone meal are easy to use and will ensure healthy growth for your green babies.
3. Prune them well – Pruning might seem barbaric but it does wonders to the growth of your plants. Monsoon is the best time to prune those leggy plants and make them grow bushier in the coming months. All you have to do it cut off the leggy stems with a sharp pair of shears or scissors! Pruning initiates side growth and makes the plants bushier. And don’t forget to utilize the cut healthy parts to propagate more plants!
4. Watch the watering – Wet spells and waterlogging can be a cause of rot in your plants. Water your plants only when the top 2-3inches of the soil turn dry. Remember, overwatering kills more plants than under-watering. Let those roots breathe in between. Also, it’s important to keep those drainage plates under the pots empty as stagnant water can attract mosquito breeding.
5. Pull out the unwanted (Weeding) – With a growth spurt in plants, often along with the weeds to grow, taking up the nutrients that can otherwise be utilised by your plants for growth. Pull out those weeds. Also, clear your plants of any dead or rotten part and help them to invest the energy in producing healthy parts.
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