Gardener's Tips from Delhi on Caring for Money Plants in Water

The popularity of using plants to decorate living spaces is rapidly growing. Notably, some types of plants do not require soil and large pots to grow; they can be easily cultivated in glass jars or bottles. These plants allow a home to become green and beautiful even in small spaces. Furthermore, in Vastu teachings, some plants are associated with luck, prosperity, and positivity. According to beliefs, placing such plants in the house in the correct direction helps create a pleasant atmosphere.

Let's look at three types of plants that can be grown in water and used to decorate your home.

The Money Plant is a popular choice for homes. Its fast-growing leaves and stems enhance the appearance of the dwelling. In Vastu and Feng Shui, it is considered a symbol of wealth, prosperity, and success. It is believed that having a green money plant in the house supports positive energy and brings happiness.

Growing this plant in water is quite simple: place a healthy cutting of the money plant in a jar of clean water. It is important that the node of the plant is in the water, which allows the roots to develop. According to Vastu, the southeast direction is considered favorable for the money plant. To maintain the plant's health, regularly change the water and remove yellow or dry leaves. The financial benefits mentioned in Vastu are based on religious beliefs.

Lucky Bamboo is very popular for decorating homes and offices due to its attractive stalks and green leaves. In Feng Shui, it is associated with luck, success, and abundance. It is believed that its presence creates a positive environment and motivates development in life.

Lucky Bamboo can also be grown in water instead of soil. To do this, pour clean water into a tall glass container and place the plant's roots in it. Small decorative stones can be added to the container to support the plant. According to Vastu and Feng Shui beliefs, it is best placed in the east or northeast. When caring for it, you should monitor the water quality and change it regularly, as well as clean the container. The plant should be in a place with sufficient light, but without direct intense sun.

The Peony Lily is known for its bright green leaves and white flowers. This plant can add beauty to the living room, study area, or a well-lit spot. In Vastu, it is associated with peace, purity, and harmony.

Peony Lilies can also be grown in water, but first, the roots must be carefully cleaned of soil. Then, the roots are placed in water. Care must be taken to ensure that the leaves are not submerged in the water and that the plant receives enough diffused light. According to Vastu, it is favorable to place the peony lily in the north or east. However, one cannot rely solely on direction; the plant's needs for light, temperature, and watering must also be considered. Additionally, the peony lily should be kept away from pets and small children, as it can be harmful if ingested.

The method of growing plants in water can be useful for residents of small apartments and studios. However, constant care is required to keep the plants in a green state.

• Use clean containers: Using a glass jar or bottle makes it easier to observe the condition of the roots.
• Change water regularly: Change the water immediately if it becomes dirty or starts to smell unpleasant.
• Monitor lighting: Provide the plants with enough light according to their needs. Direct intense sunlight can damage the leaves of many houseplants.
• Check roots: If the roots start to turn black or rot, remove the damaged parts and clean the container.
• Understand plant needs: Not all plants grow equally well in water. Choosing the right plant is crucial.

Do Water Plants Really Bring Wealth and Happiness?

In Vastu and Feng Shui, plants such as the Money Plant, Lucky Bamboo, and Peony Lily are associated with positivity and prosperity. Their real benefit lies in improving the aesthetics of the home, the feeling of connection with nature, and maintaining greenery around.

Marigolds can bring a vibrant splash of yellow and orange to a home garden, adorning balconies, terraces, and windowsills. These flowers are also frequently used in Indian festivals to create garlands and decorations.

Growing marigolds indoors does not require an extensive garden, but successful cultivation demands understanding their needs, from selecting the right variety to ensuring proper drainage. The experience of a farmer who has been cultivating these flowers for many years offers valuable lessons.

In many regions of India, October and November are favorable months for planting marigolds, as the cooler weather promotes their growth and blooming. If you plan to add these cheerful flowers to your garden, now is the right time to start.

Arup Kumar Ghosh, a farmer from Kolagata in the East Midnapore district of West Bengal, began gardening in 2011. After working in a flower shop in Hyderabad, he returned to his hometown and decided to grow marigolds independently.

His first attempt was unsuccessful: local seedlings produced small flowers that did not meet market standards, leading to losses. Seeking to improve quality, he traveled to Thailand and spent six months there, training at Bangkok Blossom Market.

During his training, he learned about the Tennis Ball marigold variety, which is valued for its bright, round flowers. He brought back seeds of yellow and orange varieties and began cultivating them on rented land.

Reflecting on his early experiments, he told The Better India: 'In the early stages of farming, I had to experiment with various fertilizers and treatment methods to find what worked best. It was all trial and error.'

Over time, he refined his cultivation methods and expanded his farm. His experience offers several useful recommendations for anyone looking to grow marigolds at home.

Tips for Growing Marigolds

1. Provide marigolds with sufficient sunlight

Sunlight is one of the first factors to consider when choosing a location for planting marigolds. A shaded corner may not be the best spot for these flowering plants. Arup explains that marigolds require a lot of sun, so he ensures the ground is not shaded by tall trees or other obstructions.

For home gardeners, this means choosing a sunny spot on a balcony, terrace, or in the garden. Position pots so that the plants receive several hours of direct sunlight daily. Whenever possible, avoid areas where taller plants or walls block the light for most of the day.

2. Carefully select seeds and varieties

Arup learned the importance of choosing the correct planting material through his experience. The local marigold seedlings he initially purchased yielded small flowers unsuitable for his business. During his training in Thailand, he discovered a new variety. He explains: 'I learned about a high-quality flower called Tennis Ball marigold. It is valued for its bright, round flowers and ability to withstand long-distance transport without damage.'

For a home garden, you can purchase marigold seeds or seedlings from a reliable nursery. Consider the available space, preferred color, and desired flower size. If you are new to gardening, it is easier to start with healthy seedlings than to grow plants from seed. Before purchasing, check the leaves and stems, avoiding plants that look sick or heavily damaged.

3. Ensure the soil drains well

Water management became an important part of Arup's farming experience, especially during the monsoon season. He notes: 'The main thing is to ensure that the fields do not retain too much water, especially during monsoons. I must ensure that the drainage system is effective so that water does not stagnate and harm the plants.'

This same principle applies to potted marigolds. Choose containers with drainage holes and use a potting mix that allows excess water to flow out. Do not leave pots sitting in water collected in trays. Check the soil before watering; if it is still moist, wait before adding more water. The goal is to provide enough moisture for healthy growth without allowing roots to sit in overly saturated soil.

4. Monitor for pests

Pests can affect flowering plants both in home gardens and on commercial farms. Regularly inspecting marigolds helps notice problems before they spread. The farmer shares his approach to pest control, saying: 'Instead of relying on harmful chemicals, I use neem oil, bone meal, and cow dung.'

It is important for home gardeners to understand that these materials serve different purposes. Neem oil-based products can help control certain pests when used according to label instructions. Bone meal and cow dung are soil amendments, not direct replacements for pesticides. Regularly inspect leaves and stems for insects or unusual changes. If using manure, ensure it is well-rotted and suitable for gardening. Use any fertilizers or soil additives in the recommended amount.

5. Take precautions during heavy rain

Unpredictable weather can damage marigold crops, especially when heavy rain leads to water accumulation around the roots. Arup explains: 'I cover the field with netting so they can grow well in harsh weather conditions.'

A home garden will have different requirements than a commercial farm, but a few simple precautions can still help. When forecasting strong winds or heavy rains, move smaller pots to a sheltered area. Secure tall plants so they do not fall over, and ensure drainage holes remain clear. After heavy rain, check pots for standing water and allow excess moisture to drain.

6. Be patient and learn from experience

The farmer's journey was not without setbacks. His first harvest did not meet the desired quality, and he had to experiment with different methods before finding what suited him. Home gardeners can use a similar approach by observing their plants and making adjustments as needed. If your marigolds look unhealthy, check if they are receiving enough sunlight, if the soil drains well, and if there are signs of pests. Use fertilizer suitable for flowering plants and follow the recommended dosage. Avoid making multiple changes at once, as this can make it difficult to understand what is helping or harming the plant.

Growing Marigolds at Home

Arup Kumar Ghosh's experience demonstrates how observation, experimentation, and patience can contribute to improving marigold cultivation. Although growing flowers in several pots differs from managing a commercial farm, the basic principles remain relevant. By adhering to proper growing conditions and consistent care, marigolds can bring a long-awaited burst of color to your home garden.

Many people are currently engaged in gardening, and among them, growing Harsingar, also known as Parijat, is popular. When the Harsingar plant blooms with white-orange flowers, the entire yard fills with fragrance. Due to its beauty, people like to plant it on balconies, rooftops, and in gardens.

However, there are often complaints that the plant does not flower, even despite careful care. Sometimes the leaves begin to wilt, and sometimes the entire plant dies, and owners do not understand what exactly the problem is.

If you also have a Harsingar growing at home and it is not flowering, you might be unknowingly making mistakes during care. In fact, excessive sunlight, lack of nutrients, and waterlogging in the soil can negatively affect the plant's growth and flowering. The good news is that by paying attention to a few simple points, you can help your plant stay healthy.

Below are three important aspects of caring for the Harsingar plant that will help you achieve abundant flowering.

1. Do not place the plant under too bright sun

   The Harsingar plant needs sunlight for good growth, but overly intense sun can damage its leaves and affect flowering. Therefore, the plant should be placed in soft morning sun. During peak heat hours when the sun becomes too strong, the pot should be moved to a place where there are fewer direct rays, but still good lighting.

2. Do not forget to fertilize on time

   If Harsingar is not flowering, one of the reasons may be a lack of nutrients in the soil. To maintain the health of the plant, fertilizers must be applied regularly. Vermicompost or organic fertilizers can be used. Special attention should be paid to the plant's needs during the flowering period. Harsingar usually flowers from August to December, although this period may vary depending on the weather and the condition of the plant itself. It is important to apply fertilizer in moderate amounts, as an excess of fertilizer can also harm the plant.

3. Do not allow waterlogging in the pot

   One of the most serious mistakes in plant care is watering with too much water. If water stagnates around the roots of the Harsingar for a long time, the roots can rot. This negatively affects the plant's health, causing leaf wilting. Before watering, always check the moisture level of the soil. If the soil is already moist, it is better to refrain from watering for some time. Furthermore, it is crucial that the pot has drainage holes to drain excess water so that moisture does not accumulate around the roots.

Other aspects to consider

To keep the Harsingar plant lush and green, it is not enough just to water and fertilize it. You must also monitor the type of soil, the level of light, and the space in which it grows. If the plant's leaves are constantly yellowing or its growth stops, you should first check the care methods. Instead of overwatering or fertilizing unnecessarily, you need to understand the plant's needs and make appropriate adjustments.