Ficus benghalensis (Banyan) bonsai, that you can try to grow and care very easily. Bonsai is the miniature form of trees that exactly resemble those grow naturally. Definitely we can make beautiful bonsai trees through careful training. Mainly at different stages like pruning, wiring, repotting etc.

Importance of bonsai

All other art forms reach completion, while the artist finishes his work. Whereas, making a bonsai is a never ending process. Because we have to care the plant throughout its life. This is the reason why we consider bonsai trees as living art forms.

Literally the Japanese word bonsai means planted in a container. Really it is derived from the Chinese term penzai.

Truly, this wonderful art form was started in China centuries ago.

But gradually became popular in almost all parts of the world. Especially in Japan, where people began to make it as a profitable business.

Surely we can say that it is one of the best gifts to our dear ones on special occasions.

People from many parts of the world believe that keeping bonsai trees bring good luck and harmony.

Not only Japan and China, but this art form has become very common in almost all south Asian countries.

Surprisingly certain ancient Indian texts refer this as Vaman vriksha.Vaman is the fifth incarnation of the Hindu god Vishnu, in the form of a dwarf boy. Vriksha is the Sanskrit word for tree.

Bonsai trees in general and plant selection

Generally it is a common practice to select trees, that are indigenous to the particular climates. For example, plants with needle like leaves are suitable for bonsai in places with colder climates.

Likewise we can find deciduous bonsai trees with seasonal colour changing leaves. Mostly in Japan, Australia, European countries etc.

In a like manner there are a lot of plants that are ideal for making bonsai in tropical climates, preferably India.

Best trees for bonsai in India and other tropical places

Trees that belong to the Ficus family, Tamarind, Jade, Schefflera, Casuarina, etc a few examples. In addition, there are flowering bonsai trees like Bougainville, Ixora, Fukien tea tree, Crepe jasmine etc.

Usually we use Ficus benghalensis, Ficus ginseng microcarpa, Ficus microcarpa, Ficus Bodhi, Ficus alii etc. for making bonsai. Besides, Ficus benjamina is ideal for bonsai beginners.

Simple tips for making Ficus benghalensis (banyan) bonsai trees

Certainly Ficus benghalensis (banyan) is one of the best trees for making bonsai. Conspicuous trunk, hanging roots etc. are the most favourable factors.

The Ficus benghalensis bonsai shown in the pic below, is about 30 years old.

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Propagation

Through stem cuttings we can propagate Ficus benghalensis. Especially like all other plants that belong to the Ficus family. First collect cuttings of a length of about six inches from good mother plants. Particularly those are healthy and without having any kind of diseases.

Within a period of two to three weeks, new leaves begin to sprout.

Then plant these cuttings in river sand about two inches deep. Never forget to water the plant cuttings daily.

Training your Ficus benghalensis bonsai trees

Indeed you can choose a shallow pot for this.

Transfer the saplings to the training pot after two or three months.

A good well drained medium is essential to grow your bonsai.  Hence fill the pot with a medium with the following ratio as stated below.

In order to prevent drainage of the potting medium, put  crushed bricks as the bottom layer.

Preparation of potting medium for ficus benghalensis (banyan) bonsai

• Garden soil – 30%
• River sand – 30%
• Dried and powdered cow dung or any organic manure – 20%
• Bone meal and neem seed powder – 10%
• Perlite or coco peat – 10%

Either you can make this medium by mixing the ingredients together or buy it directly from stores.

Keep the pot in shade for a few days and then gradually move to bright sunlight.

Let it grow in the same pot for two to three years.

Always remember to water the plant daily. Additionally fertilise it with diluted liquid organic manure at regular intervals.

Pinching and pruning

Meanwhile you can remove extra buds using your nails or small knives.

At this stage, it is necessary to decide which branches are to be retained. Therefore, remove all other branches using a sharp scissors or pruning shears.

Wiring your ficus benghalensis (banyan) bonsai tree

Wiring is the process through which you can bend the branches to the required shapes or styles.

For this, you can use soft aluminium or copper wires. Using your aesthetic sense twist the branches gently.

Never forget to take extreme care while bending the branches. Because it has the tendency to break easily, with careless handling.

Proper caring makes your ficus benghalensis (banyan) bonsai tree to grow well in the training pot.

Repotting

Of course, it is very essential to repot your bonsai at intervals of two or three years. Undoubtedly it helps to retain the health and beauty of your bonsai.

Repotting is the process of planting your bonsai in fresh medium. Preferably after taking it out of the pot along with the medium and roots.

For this, take the plant out of the pot along with the medium. After that remove the medium and about 1/3 of the roots.

Finally plant your bonsai in the same pot, after filling the medium as stated above.

Keep the pot in shade for a few days and water regularly.

A few years training and careful attention will make your Ficus benghalensis, an amazing art piece.

Transfer the Ficus benghalensis (banyan) to original bonsai pot

At last, you can transfer the plantbb to an original bonsai pot. Ordinarily, wide and shallow pots are used for this purpose. There are beautiful bonsai pots in different sizes and shapes.

Before transferring the bonsai, put pieces of aluminium or copper wires through the holes. Furthermore, cover the holes with pieces of wire mesh.

Take the bonsai out of the training pot, and remove extra roots if necessary. Further place the bonsai in the pot, and tie it tightly so that it can remain straight.

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Fill the pot with the same medium as stated above, leaving about one inch space from the top.

Now your Ficus benghalensis bonsai is ready, and you can place it either indoors or at any place.

Beginner’s plants for balcony gardens to grow easily, without taking much effort. Especially in tropical places like Kerala and other South Indian states.

One of the most important problems that garden lovers face today, is lack of sufficient space. Mostly those who reside in flats or apartments.

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Definitely we can fix this easily, by choosing plants that are ideal for balconies and indoors. Many of them can thrive even in the darkest corners.

What are the different types of plants for beginner’s balcony gardens

Surely these plants include fantastic flowering and non-flowering plants.

Moreover, there are lots of beautiful plants that we can hang from the rooftops, using strings.

In addition, there are different types of vegetables, herbs etc. that we can grow in balconies.

Points to remember while preparing beginner’s balcony gardens

While preparing our balcony garden, we should always remember certain important things. Because, it is essential to maintain the beauty and health of plants.

For example,

1. Always use potting medium that suits fine for particular plants. Succulents always need well drained sandy medium to prevent rotting. Whereas, plants like anthurium or orchids never need a soil medium.

2. Feed the plants with nutritious fertiliser at regular intervals.

3. Water the plant according to the particular nature. Certain plants prefer occasional watering, whereas some others need it on a daily basis.

4. Change the places of plants, so that it can adjust light requirements.

Given below are a few examples of plants, that you can grow easily in balconies, preferably as a beginner.

Beginner’s flowering plants for balcony gardens

Really, it is very easy to grow flowering plants in our balconies. Because the only important requirement is sunlight for a few hours a day.

It is amazing to keep flowering plants in ceramic or terracotta pots in balconies.

As a beginner, you can try succulents like impatiens or chinese balsam, euphorbia, begonias, kalanchoe etc.

Likewise Anthurium is another best plant that you can try. Miniature anthurium plants with flowers in different shades, are fantastic for small space gardens.

Orchids–beginner’s best plants for balcony gardens

Orchids are the most suitable flowering plants for balconies. Wide range of varieties, availability in almost all places etc. are a few of the reasons behind this.

Surprisingly most of the Orchid flowers resemble animals, insects, birds etc. that make the plants really unique. Many of them are having pleasant fragrance too.

Orchid plants need only 60% sunlight, which is one of the favourable factors for balcony gardening.

Above all, we can keep these plants either in pots or in hanging baskets.

Surely we can buy saplings of orchids from nurseries.

Shade loving plants

Furthermore, there are a lot of shade loving plants ideal for balconies. For many of them, leaves are the most attractive parts. Hence we can keep it either in balconies or even at window sides.

Usually, most of these foliage plants are non flowering .

ZZ Plant, Sansiveiria, Monstera, Money plants, ferns, etc. are a few examples that you can try easily.

Generally a large number of these shade loving plants are having detoxifying properties. For this reason we can also keep it indoors, especially in kitchens.

Never forget that many of these are positive energy plants. Best examples are Spider plant, Aglaonema, etc.

Excess light may make the leaves to lose colour and lustre. For this reason always keep these plants in shade or places with moderate sunlight. Additionally most of these plants tend to dry out due to severe heat.

Plants in hanging baskets or pots make our balconies not only attractive but help saving lots of space.

Definitely you can choose flowering or non-flowering creepers according to your requirements. In well lit balconies, flowering trailers are the most suitable ones, preferably for beginners.

Given below are a few examples of:

Flowering trailers or vines

Petunias, portulaca, Episcia, Evolvulus etc. are examples of flowering vines. Particularly in tropical places like Kerala and other South Indian states.

Beginner’s non–flowering vines for balcony gardens

Commonly most people prefer non flowering creepers for balcony gardens. Low maintenance, easy availability etc. are the important reasons behind this.

Cactus plants

Never forget that there are a lot of positive energy plants among non-flowering creepers. Different varieties of Money plants or the golden pothos, ferns, turtle vine etc. are widely used by people all over the world.

Cacti are plants in which leaves or stems are transformed into thorns or other such plant parts. Colourful and bright parts are the special features of many of them. As a beginner, you can select a few colourful cactus plants for balconies.

Certainly you can try a few vegetables in your balcony. Spinach, chilli pepper, brinjal etc. are not only nutritious but attractive.

Herbs

Having a few herbs in your balconies is really a wonderful experience. Freshness as well as fragrance can make us feel good, preferably in depressed moods.

Holy basil, sweet basil, cilantro, mint etc. are a few examples of herbs that you can try. In addition black pepper, aloe vera etc. are also ideal for keeping in your balconies.

Bonsai trees

Whether flowering or non flowering, bonsai trees can make your balcony gardens really amazing. Bougainville, Adenium, Fukien tea tree and Ixora are best examples of flowering bonsai plants. Sunny places in balconies are ideal for keeping these plants.

Bonsai trees from Ficus family are generally low light plants that can thrive either indoors or in balconies. Ficus benjamina, Ficus microcarpa, Ficus ginseng microcarpa , Ficus alii, Ficus rumphii etc. are examples.

Water plants-beginner’s best plants for balcony gardens

Ready to use garden ponds are available with most of the sellers and nurseries. Without any, doubt you can keep one according to the size of your balcony.

Lotus and water lilies having flowers in different colours can make your balconies really awesome.

Of course, you can buy saplings directly from nurseries for this.

Potting medium for different types of plants

Mixing the ingredients in the right proportions, you can make the medium suitable for each plant. River sand, garden soil, organic manure, coco peat, compost, neem seed powder, perlite etc. are the main components.

If you find it difficult to collect the suitable potting mixture for each plant, you can buy it directly from sellers.

Given above are only a few examples of beginner’s plants for balcony gardens. You can find even more, that are popular in your locality.

With the above simple tips try to make your own balcony garden. 

 

Best flowering bonsai trees that you can try in tropical places, especially for beginners. Bonsai trees are beautiful art pieces that can make our indoors as well as outdoors really amazing.

Usually there are a lot of of indigenous plant varieties, ideal for making bonsai. They can adapt well to the particular climates and other growing conditions easily.

Leaves and stems are the attractive parts of most of the bonsai trees. For example, trees that belong to the Ficus family, the Jade, Rubber tree etc.

Likewise there are many other beautiful bonsai trees with attractive flowers. Especially that we can grow without taking much effort. Many of them bear fantastic fruits as well.

Let us see a few examples of flowering bonsai trees that we can grow easily in tropical places. Preferably in Kerala and other South Indian states.

 

Bougainville

Woody stem and beautiful bright blooms are the key features that make the plant suitable for bonsai. Among these there are shrubs, small trees and trailing vines.

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Bougainville glabra with colourful blooms in clusters, is one of the most beautiful varieties.

There are flowers in different shades of pink, red, purple, white etc.

Also it is very easy to train the plant, to any of the basic styles.

We can use stem cuttings for propagation of Bougainville bonsai.

Always remember that we should give proper care during different stages of training.

In addition, repot your bonsai every two years for retaining its health and beauty.

Try your own Bougainville bonsai with the simple tips here.

2. Ixora

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Ixora is an evergreen perennial flowering shrub, ideal  for bonsai. Surprisingly there are more  than 500 varieties of ixora plants. There are plants with the flowers in red white, pink, and yellow colours. 

Uses of Ixora flowers

Flowers are used for pooja purposes in South Indian temples. Likewise the plant has got medicinal properties. Hence it is one of the main ingredients in a lot of Ayurvedic medicines.

Propagation of Ixora, one of the flowering bonsai trees for beginners

The most common method for propagation is through stem cuttings. Another method is through the germination of mature seeds. But it takes more time for the plant to grow.

Usually we use the dwarf varieties of  ixora coccinea for making bonsai.

In addition, we can buy good quality saplings directly from sellers or nurseries.

Really a well drained sandy medium is very essential for the proper growth of the plant. Therefore we can make it by mixing equal quantities of river sand, garden soil, coco peat and bone meal.

Timely pruning, wiring, repotting etc. can make your ixora bonsai healthy and beautiful.

The Fukien tea tree or Carmona retusa

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Surprisingly, the name of this is because of its origin from the Fukien province of China. This evergreen plant is very common in the southern as well as south eastern parts of Asia.

The plant has got a number of medicinal properties as well. Hence it is an important component in herbal medicines for stomach ailments, skin diseases etc.

Truly it is one of the favourites of bonsai lovers all over the world. Because the plant responds well to training in different stages.

Besides the star like white flowers, conspicuous trunk, small shiny leaves etc. make the bonsai awesome. Berries that are green in colour, which gradually turns orange and finally red, are equally fine.

Propagation of Fukientea tree, one of the best flowering bonsai for beginners

Through stem cuttings and germination of seeds, we can propagate the Fukien tea tree. But remember that it takes longer, if we use seeds for starting our Fukien tea tree bonsai.

Commonly the Fukien tea tree plants are not fast growing. However, it becomes an amazing art piece with proper caring. Mostly with timely pruning, wiring, repotting etc.

Here you can find the simple tips for growing the Fukien tea tree bonsai.

4. Cassia fistula, one of the beautiful flowering bonsai trees for beginners

Golden shower tree, is the common name for the plant. South Asian countries, especially India and Sri Lanka are the places where we can find this plant abundantly. Additionally it is the state flower Kerala.

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Above all, flowers of this tree is an unavoidable item for preparing Vishu Kani. Vishu is one of the most important festivals of Kerala associated with harvesting. Furthermore, Kani is the first sight to be seen on a particular day.

Bright yellow flowers hanging directly from the woody stem, is the main attraction.

Propagation

Generally ripe mature seeds are used for propagation of the golden shower tree plants. Vegetative propagation using stem cuttings take much longer time for results.

Adequate quantities of mulch, river sand any organic manure etc. mixed together is the best growing medium.

Direct bright sunlight is the must have requirement for better blooming.

Definitely you can prune your cassia fistula bonsai, once the flowering ends.

5. Crepe Jasmine

Owing to the particular shape of the flowers, this plant is commonly known as the pinwheel flower plant. This evergreen plant branch out fairly, which is one of the factors that make it ideal for bonsai.

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Moreover, the leaves that are in different shades of green, is really attractive.

Stem cuttings collected from mature mother plants are suitable for propagation.

Crepe Jasmine plants respond well to training at different stages, which is most essential for a bonsai.

The plant always needs a moist but well drained medium enriched with nutrients.

6. Tamarind

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Truly it is one of the best plants for making bonsai in tropical places. Small leaves, woody stem, drooping branches, flowers and fruits are the main features.

Saplings collected through germination of seeds, is the best method for propagation.

Loamy well drained soil mixture enriched with any organic manure, is the adequate medium for the bonsai.

Surely we can train our tamarind to any of the basic bonsai styles, and you can follow the tips here.

Examples of a few other flowering bonsai trees for beginners

Given above are only a few examples of flowering bonsai trees.

You can find even more, that are suitable for the particular tropical climates. For example, Adenium, Murraya paniculata, Powder puff plant, Coral Jasmine ( Parijat ) etc.

Certainly you can make your garden really amazing with any of them, following the simple tips,

Jackfruit the nutritious fruit of Kerala, that we can grow easily for home gardens.

Kerala is a land of agriculture, because the climates as well as soil structures are suitable for tropical crops. Mostly paddy, coconut, banana, tapioca etc.

Likewise Kerala’s spices are very popular in Indian and international markets. Therefore, we export black pepper, dried ginger, cardamom etc. to different parts of the world.

Fruits of Kerala

Here I am sharing with you a few examples of fruits common in Kerala, that are delicious and nutritious. Definitely we can grow many of them in our backyards, gardens or even in balconies.

Really these fruit bearing plants include trees, shrubs, succulents, vines etc.

Not only edible purposes, but many of them are having medicinal properties. Hence we can use it as home remedies for ailments.

In addition to the seasonal fruits, a lot of others are available throughout the year.

First let us see jackfruit, one of the most nutritious as well as delicious fruits.

Jackfruit the nutritious fruits of Kerala

Really it is the state fruit of Kerala. Surprisingly most of the houses are having at least one jack tree in the backyards.

Jackfruit the nutritious fruit of Kerala-A short description

Western ghats of India hosts lots of this evergreen tree with a life span of about hundred years.

Usually the tree with leathery and shiny leaves, grow up to a height of about thirty metres. Likewise it is one of the best shade trees with a fine distribution of branches and leaves.

Normally fruits develop directly from the woody stem, that weighs about an average of ten kilograms.

There are different varieties of jack trees, mostly according to the texture and colour of the fleshy part.

Royal red jack is an example for the above, with reddish inner fleshy parts.

Generally the tree needs about three to five years for producing fruits. Average yield from an ordinary tree is about hundred fruits per year.

Normally jackfruits ripen during the summer season.

Hybrid jackfruit varieties

However most of the hybrid varieties produce fruits within very short periods after planting. Besides certain dwarf varieties bloom twice a year.

Ayur jack, muttom varikka, sindoor etc. are a few examples of hybrid varieties in Kerala. In the same way Vietnam early is another one, that produces fruits within one and a half years.

Indeed we can buy saplings of these plants from nurseries and sellers.

Significantly gum less jackfruit is the most popular variety, which is highly in demand.

Jackfruit dishes

Truly we can consume the inner fleshy parts of ripe Jackfruit as such. In a like manner, the delicious dishes we prepare with jackfruit, are very popular.

For example kumbilappam, ada, etc. are kerala’s most delicious sweets with jackfruit.

Similarly, we can make healthy thoran with tender jackfruit.

Cooked raw jackfruit, is the most common dish that go well with fish curry. Likewise the nutritious jackfruit seeds fry is a wonderful combination with boiled rice.

Above all, the crispy jackfruit chips that we make by frying in pure coconut oil, is a very tasty snack.

Jackfruit medicinal properties

Medicinal properties of fruits as well as other parts of the plant are really important.

The higher dietary fibre content in jackfruits helps to maintain a healthy digestive system.

Consuming raw jackfruit regularly leads to control blood pressure as well as diabetes.  

Furthermore dried form of the fruit is equally effective, which is available in most of the grocery stores.

Even the leaves of the tree are having medicinal properties.

Definitely it might be the reason why people in olden days used spoons made of jack tree leaves. Especially for consuming soup, porridge etc.

Other uses of Jackfruit the nutritious fruit of Kerala

In addition to the above, almost all parts of the plant are useful to us in one way or the other.

Chiefly heart wood of jack trees not less than fifty to sixty years, is used for making furniture. Surely we can identify this wood by the bright yellow colour, that resembles that of turmeric.

How to grow

Evidently through the germination of seeds we can propagate the jack trees. Always remember to collect good quality seeds from mature ripe fruits.

Additionally soaking the seeds overnight can make the outer coating softer, that helps a speedy germination. Generally it takes about twenty to thirty days for the seeds to sprout.

Of course, we can replant the sapling after a minimum of four to six leafs are developed .

Never forget to provide a well drained loamy medium enriched with fertiliser. In a like manner, find a sunny location that is not over crowded with other trees.

Maintaining moisture in the medium is essential for the proper growth. Moreover yearly fertilizing can keep the plant healthy.

Jackfruit the nutritious fruit of Kerala

Jack tree as an ornamental tree

Surely we can buy grafted saplings from nurseries, that are ideal for small space gardens. Certain varieties suitable for growing in containers are also available with sellers.

Owing to its beautiful appearance, we can use hybrid jack trees as ornamental trees. Furthermore dark green lustrous leaves well arranged on the branches look really awesome.

Doubtlessly Ficus benjamina, Bougainville, Hibiscus etc. are a few examples of tropical ornamental trees.

Keeping the above points in mind, try the delicious jackfruit or its dishes. Above all, make your garden really awesome with a few jack trees, according to the availability of space.

To be continued with another fruit next time.

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Flowering plants for gardening beginners, preferably in tropical places, that you can try easily. Surely you can grow these plants either directly in your garden or in any sunny locations. Mostly like balconies, window boxes or courtyards.

Definitely your garden will look amazing with flowering plants . Especially along with low-light plants like Aglaonema, ZZ Plant, Boston fern etc. Not only that but ornamental trees, palms, flowering vines, etc. are fantastic.

Why flowering plants are ideal for beginners?

Really the low maintenance plants I am sharing here, are common in tropical places.

First, you can try a few flowering plants as a gardening beginner. Additionally, most of them are easy to care.

Also you can collect stem cuttings or seeds, without spending much money.

Certainly, minimum caring and easy availability make them our favourites.

 Let us see a few examples of plants with beautiful flowers, that you can grow easily.

Best flowering plants for gardening beginners

Generally these plants include shrubs, small trees, succulents, climbing vines etc. 

Besides you can try aquatic plants like lotus, water lilies etc. if you have enough space.

Certainly we can propagate most of these plants through stem cuttings. Furthermore, you can buy amazing hybrid varieties from nurseries.

Likewise, it is easy to keep these plants as shrubs, through proper pruning. Definitely we can use tools like sharp scissors or pruning shears for this. 

Also we can maintain these plants like other ornamental trees. Mainly like Ficus benjamina, Bamboo trees, Palms etc.

Given below are a few examples of tropical flowering plants

Shrubs or small trees.

1. Ixora-flowering plants for gardening beginners

Ixora with flowers in different colours is common in South Asian countries. These are evergreen plants with woody stems, that are ideal for making bonsai. 

Owing to its medicinal properties, different parts of the plant are used as home remedies. For example, Ixora flowers boiled in pure coconut oil, is an effective remedy for skin problems.

Truly, ixora flowers are used for pooja purposes in Indian temples. Mostly like the holy basil, crepe jasmine etc.

You can read here, the simple tips for growing ixora plants.

2.Lantana

Really Lantana camara is the one with attractive flowers. Other than shrubs, we can use trailing varieties for arches.

Though the plant needs only minimum caring, it blooms throughout the year. 

Above all, it is one of best plants for attracting butterflies. Therefore, a few lantana plants can definitely make our outdoors lively.

3.Bougainville

Bougainville glabra with beautiful flowers, is one of the most popular varieties. Attractive parts are really the bracts that surround the flowers. Usually, the flowers are small and white in colour. 

Moreover, it is one of the best plants for making bonsai. 

4.Melastoma

Deep purple flowers in bunches are the main attraction of the plant. Commonly stem cuttings are used for propagating the plant.

Succulents-ideal flowering plants for gardening beginners

Surely you can try a few flowering succulents, especially as a beginner.

Adenium, Impatiens, Portulaca, Euphorbia milii, Kalanchoe etc. are a few examples.

2.Adenium obesum one of the best flowering plants for gardening beginners

Actually Adenium plants are having fleshy stems and leaves. These are really one of the special features of desert plants. For this reason, they are popularly known as desert rose.

Surprisingly, enlarged base of the trunk called caudex is its fascinating speciality.

Furthermore, essential requirements are bright sunlight and well drained medium.

2.Impatiens or Chinese balsam

Really the bright flowers in different shades can make our gardens fantastic. Obviously, these beginner friendly plants are ideal for window boxes and balconies. Similarly impatiens are suitable for vertical gardens and for making borders.

3.Euphorbia milii

Euphorbia milii plants with bright blooms, belong to the cactus family. Further, we can propagate the plant through stem cuttings or mature ripe seeds.

Read here the tips for preparing home made potting mixture for succulents and other plants.

Plants with fragrant flowers

Of course, you can try different varieties of jasmine, gardenia, etc. with fragrant flowers. After all, these tropical plants are easy to care, and we can use stem cuttings for propagation.

Dwarf varieties of plants ideal for pot planting

Dwarf varieties of plants with amazing blooms, are equally good for pot planting. Moreover, we can keep these plants in sunny balconies or indoors. Daisies, dianthus, chrysanthemum etc. are a few such plants

Orchids are best flowering plants for gardening beginners

In order to start a garden, you can choose orchid plants without any doubt. Evidently, hanging baskets and coconut husks are suitable for growing these plants. Therefore, we don’t need any extra space for keeping our orchids.

Here you can read the tips for growing the attractive orchid plant Oncidium ( dancing girls).

Aquatic plants

Undoubtedly, water lilies and lotus flowers, can make your front yard amazing. Particularly garden ponds with a few such plants are unavoidable for landscaping.  

Feng shui recommends keeping ornamental fish for positive energy.

Likewise, saplings of these plants are available with most of the sellers and nurseries.

Given above are examples of flowering plants for gardening beginners. Above all you can surely find more, that are popular in your locality. 

With the above simple tips, try to start your own garden with flowering plants.

Bodhi or Ficus rumphii bonsai tree, to grow easily for beginners. Especially, in tropical places like Kerala and other southern regions of India.

Generally, Indian climate is suitable for plants that belong to the Ficus family. Peepul tree ( Ficus religiosa ), the Banyan tree ( Ficus benghalensis ) etc. are a few examples. Commonly we can find a lot of such trees aged hundreds of years, mostly in the premises of temples.

Religious importance of Ficus trees

Surely we know that Siddharth Gautama attained enlightenment and became the Buddha, while meditating under a peepul tree. Consequently the place has become sacred for devotees, and Mahabodhi temple at Bihar in India, is one of the famous pilgrimage destinations. Surprisingly the Ficus religiosa tree, that people worship at the temple, is the successor of the original one.

Benefits of growing Ficus trees

Evidently, most of the trees under the Ficus family have got medicinal properties. For this reason different parts of the plant such as flower buds, bark, roots etc. are used in Ayurveda. Preferably for the preparation of medicines for stomach ailments, respiratory disorders etc.

Likewise, Ficus trees produce the largest quantity of oxygen in nature.

Obviously they are the best plants for making bonsai, and definitely we can keep it indoors or outdoors.

Most important Ficus plant varieties in India

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Specifically Ficus religiosa, Ficus benghalensis, Ficus benjamina, Ficus microcarpa, Ficus ginseng microcarpa, Ficus alii and Ficus rumphii are the common varieties. Doubtlessly all these varieties are ideal for making bonsai, especially in tropical climates.

Among these, Ficus benjamina is one of the most beautiful ornamental trees for gardens. Furthermore, it is the most suitable plant for making bonsai, preferably for beginners. Usually the plant needs only minimum caring and responds well to different stages of bonsai training.

Other common plants for tropical gardens

Besides, you can make your garden really awesome with a lot of plants that are ideal for tropical climates. Flowering plants like Hibiscus, Lantana, Bougainville, Crepe Jasmine, Ixora etc. are examples.

Similarly flowering vines, ornamental palms, plants with colourful foliage etc. are also fine for tropical gardens.

How to grow Bodhi or Ficus rumphii bonsai

Let us see the simple tips for growing Ficus Bodhi rumphii bonsai

Bodhi or Ficus rumphii is one of the most important plants in the family, having close resemblance to religiosa. However, there are slight differences  between the two.

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Mainly like the colour, shape and texture of leaves.

Propagation of Bodhi or Ficus rumphii bonsai

Though we can use mature seeds for propagation, the easiest and faster way is through stem cuttings. Always remember to collect cuttings from healthy mother plants.

Particularly, cuttings with a length of about four inches, having at least one leaf node is ideal.

For rooting the stem cuttings, tuck the lower tips about one inch deep in river sand filled up to ¾  in a pot. Never forget to water regularly and keep the pot in shade for a few days.

Once the stem cuttings start rooting, new leaf buds begin to sprout. Doubtlessly, you can transfer your Ficus Bodhi saplings to the training pot after a few weeks.

Preparation of the training pot

Surely, you can prepare the potting mixture in the following ratio

River sand	20%
Garden soil	20%
Crushed bricks	20%
Coco peat	15%
Dried cow dung or compost	15%
Neem seed powder	5%
Bone meal	5%

Further mix all the ingredients together, fill about ¾ of the pot, and transfer the sapling carefully to it.

Light requirements

Truly, Bodhi trees prefer bright indirect sunlight, mostly like other Ficus varieties. Therefore, these bonsai trees are the best options for indoors, balconies or window sides.

Training your Bodhi or Ficus rumphii bonsai

Let your Ficus Bodhi sapling grow in the training pot for a few years. Meanwhile give proper care by watering the plant daily. Likewise feed the plant with an organic manure at regular intervals.

In a like manner, never forget to repot your bonsai at intervals of about two years. Additionally, make sure that you are using fresh medium each time, which is essential for the healthy growth.

Either using a sharp knife or pruning shears, you can remove about two third of the roots carefully.

Pruning and  wiring your Bodhi or Ficus rumphii bonsai

Of course, you can read here in detail the simple tips for pruning your bonsai. Also you will get a general picture about the essential tools for pruning and  wiring bonsai plants here.

Definitely, your Ficus Bodhi will become a beautiful piece of art within a few years, through proper caring.

Transferring your Bodhi or Ficus rumphii to the original bonsai pot

Certainly you can transfer your Ficus Bodhi to an original bonsai pot. First fill the pot with a medium prepared as above for the training pot.

Then take the plant out of the training pot along with the soil, without making any damage to the roots.

After that, remove the extra roots if any, using a sharp knife or scissors.

Finally, fix the plant in the pot using wires and fill the potting mixture.

It is equally important to keep the pot in shade for a few days. Because your bonsai should get adapted to the new environment.

In addition, you can read here the simple tips for the preparation of bonsai mix for Ficus trees.

Lastly, keep your fantastic Bodhi bonsai at any place you like, make your garden really amazing.

 

 

Ornamental plants with colourful foliage, that we can grow easily for outdoor home gardens. Preferably, in tropical places like Kerala and other South Indian states.

Usually we grow plants with blooms in different colours that make our gardens really awesome. Lantana, Ixora, Bougainville, Hibiscus etc. are examples of flowering shrubs. Likewise, ornamental trees with beautiful as well as fragrant flowers can adorn our gardens. Similarly climbing vines with blooms, are unavoidable for landscaping and trellises.

However, there are a lot of beautiful plants that are having leaves in attractive shades. Not only the colour of leaves, but many of them are having fascinating shapes as well. Surely we can grow these plants in our gardens without taking much effort.

Ornamental plants with colourful foliage – a general picture

Definitely most of us are familiar with low light plants that are having colourful foliage. Because there are a lot of such plants that we can grow easily indoors. For example, different varieties of Aglaonema, Caladium, variegated Spider plant, Money plants etc.

In a like manner we can grow many plants with colourful foliage, that can make our outdoor gardens really attractive. Commonly these plants include trees, shrubs, dwarf plants, succulents etc.

Generally these low maintenance plants, need only minimum caring. Of course, we can grow them either directly in the garden or in pots. Soil medium with proper drainage and sunny locations, are the essential requirements.

Let us see a few examples of ornamental plants with colourful foliage, ideal for home gardens.

1. Crotons – one of the most common ornamental plants with colourful foliage

Crotons are plants with brightly coloured foliage, that grow up to a maximum height of about eight feet. Through proper pruning, we can keep it short according to the required height. 

The plant belongs to the family euphorbiacea, with a wide  variety of plants. Truly it is the abundance in variety, that makes  the plant one of the favourites of gardening lovers.

Commonly the leaves attain maximum brightness in full sunlight. Always remember that the colour fades gradually and finally turns green in low light conditions.

We can use stem cuttings for the propagation of croton plants. Moreover we can buy saplings of beautiful rare varieties from sellers. 

2. Eugenia ( Syzygium myrtifolium )

These are evergreen plants that we can grow as shrubs or ornamental trees. Usually the plant grows up to a height of about eight to  ten feet. Hence it is suitable for keeping as the central plant, in landscaping.

Through proper pruning we can maintain the plant shorter, which is fine for pot planting. Also lots of new buds sprout after each pruning, that can brighten up larger areas. For this reason, the syzygium plants are widely used for hedging. The tender leaves are really the colourful parts of the plant. For the leaves to attain brightness to the fullest, we should always keep the plant in sunny places.

Mainly plants with orange red as well as maroon leaves are common in tropical places like Kerala. 

It is easy to propagate the plant through stem cuttings. Always remember to collect cuttings from mature healthy mother plants. 

3. Coleus – ideal ornamental plants with colourful foliage

These are a group of plants having bright foliage in different shades. Moreover the fascinating designs as well as veins on the leaves make the plant really attractive. 

Coleus plants belong to the family lamiaceae in which there are a lot of species. In addition to ornamental plants, there are many herbs as well as succulents in the family. Mexican mint ( Coleus barbatus) is one of the best examples of medicinal plants that we can use for many ailments. 

Certainly the coleus plants are ideal for making our gardens look gorgeous. Especially with its bright foliage in a wide variety of of colours. 

Likewise it is one of the best plants for gardening beginners. Because even children can grow these low maintenance plants easily. 

Though coleus is a flowering plant, leaves are the prominent parts. Therefore, nipping the flower buds can make the plant to remain healthy.

Besides, lots of new branches sprout and spread around by pruning the plants occasionally. 

Coleus plants always need bright sunlight and moderate watering on a regular basis. In a like manner we should provide a well drained medium for potted coleus plants.

Using stem cuttings we can propagate the coleus plants. 

4. Copper leaf plants ( Acalypha wilkensiana ) – ornamental plants with colourful foliage

These vibrant foliage plants are very common in tropical gardens. Mostly the leaves appear with reddish brown, pink or variegated green colours. 

Jacob’s coat, match-me-if-you-can etc. are the popular names of the plant, preferably according to the regions. 

This fast growing evergreen plant reaches a maximum height of about five feet. Definitely this plant is the best choice for garden fencing and hedging. Because the plant responds well to pruning, which helps to maintain the height of the plant.

Importantly full bright sunlight, regular watering and well drained medium are the essential requirements for the plant. 

5. Variegated Ficus benjamina

Ficus benjamina is one of the best ornamental trees for gardens. Also we can use the plant for different purposes such as making bonsai, keeping indoors for positive energy etc.

Further variegated species of the plant with attractive leaves in a combination of green and white colours, is really awesome. 

For propagating the plant we can use stem cuttings collected from mother plants. 

6. The polka dots plants 

These lovely plants are best options for pot planting, that we can keep at sunny places in balconies or patios. Specifically the leaves look amazing with red, pink or white dots on bright green background. It should be noted that the dots or designs fade away gradually in low light conditions. Consequently the plant will lose health and attains a dull appearance.

Baby’s tears, freckle face etc. are the common names in which the plant is known. 

Stem cuttings are usually used for propagation of the polka dots plants.

7. Hawaiian Ti plant ( Cordylin fruticosa )

Surprisingly the pinkish purple long foliage, is the main attraction of the plant. In tropical places these plants can do well, especially in bright sunlight. 

Furthermore people of Hawaii consider this as lucky plant, that can bring good fortune. 

There are different varieties of the plant, and we can buy saplings from nurseries. 

8. Plants with silver leaves 

In addition, there are many plants with shining silver coloured leaves that can brighten up your garden. For example, Silver dust plant ( Dusty miller ), Agave quick silver, Moonshine sansivieria ( Snake plant) etc.

9. Edible leaves for gardens

Above all, you can try certain plants with edible leaves that are equally fantastic. Definitely red spinach is one of the best choices ideal for tropical places.

Given above are only a few examples of foliage plants, that can make your gardens awesome. Surely you can try more plants that are popular in your locality. 

Let your garden be more colourful with plants that are having colourful foliage.

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Simple Kerala recipes that anyone can try easily, especially beginners who are new to the world of cooking. In this series of articles, I am trying to share with you the simple recipes for dishes that are popular in Kerala. Definitely you will love these delicious as well as nutritious dishes.

Simple Kerala recipes for beginners – a few benefits

Moreover, you don’t need to spend too much time in the kitchen for making these dishes. Likewise, most of the ingredients that we use here are available on a cheaper price. In addition, we can collect many of them readily even from our backyards.

Kerala, being a land of agriculture, we cultivate a lot of vegetables, preferably most of them are seasonal.

Medicinal properties of leafy greens in Kerala

Many of them are having medicinal properties as well, especially during the rainy season.
This is the reason why we use different types of leaves for making dishes during the month of karkidakam. According to the Malayalam calendar, it is the last month that falls in mid July.
Surely we should include leafy greens in our daily diet, for at least one serving. Because they are wonderful source of nutrients, that are essential for our health. Leafy vegetables that are low in calories can boost our health in many ways. For example, those who stick on to such a diet, are at a reduced risk of cardiac disorders. Moreover, these are packed with dietary fibre, and hence surely promise a healthy digestive system.
Similarly, it is equally effective for stress related problems, to consume dark green leafy vegetables on a regular basis.

Read here about some important edible leaves of Kerala.
Like other tropical places, we can find different varieties of spinach ( Cheera in Malayalam language ) in Kerala. Among that, red spinach is the most popular one for making delicious dishes.

Red spinach as an ornamental plant

You can grow this plant easily from seeds, either directly in soil or in pots. If you don’t have enough space in your garden, balconies or courtyards are equally fine. The only requirement is that, the plants should get sunlight for at least six hours a day. Above all, it will be really awesome to keep your red spinach plants with a few bonsai trees or other ornamental plants.

Given below are the simple recipes for a few Kerala dishes with red spinach

Usually we use coconut as one of the main ingredients, for Kerala recipes. It not only adds nutrition, but makes our dishes extremely tasty.
Similarly the importance of this, is quite clear from the name of the little state itself. Because Kera literally means coconut and Alam is place, and of course Kerala is the land of coconuts.

Spinach-lentil ( toor dal or split pigeon pea ) curry

Cooking time: 30 minutes
Ingredients needed:

1. Finely chopped spinach 1 cup
2. Lentil 1 cup
3. For grinding
– Grated coconut 3/4 cup
– Red chilli powder 11/2 tsp
– Shallot 2 small
– Garlic 2 cloves
– Turmeric powder ½ tsp
– Cumin powder ¼ tsp
– Salt to taste
4. For seasoning
– Coconut oil 2 tbsps
– Mustard seeds 1tsp
– Curry leaves 2 sprigs
– Dried chilli 2

How to make:

First cook lentil to make it soft, and keep aside. Then heat a pan on a medium flame, add one tbsp coconut oil and sauté the chopped spinach.
Meanwhile grind ingredients 2 together in to a fine paste, and mix to the spinach. After that add the cooked lentil, enough water and salt. Stir well to make a thick consistency.
Close the pan and cook for two to three minutes.
Stir once more and keep the pan out of the flame.
Finally, garnish with ingredients 4, and serve hot.
Definitely this less spicy delicious dish will go well with boiled rice or chappathis

Simple Kerala recipes for beginners

Spinach-jackfruit seed stir fry ( Thoran ).

Cooking time 40 minutes
Ingredients needed
1. Red spinach finely chopped 2 Cups
2. Jackfruit seeds cleaned and chopped 1 cup
3. For Grinding
– Grated coconut- 1 cup
– Green chilli- 1 no
– Turmeric powder- ½ tsp
– Garlic – 2 cloves
– Cumin seed powder – ¼ tsp
4. To garnish
– Mustard seeds ½ tsp
– Black gram ( urad dal ) 1 tsp
– Curry leaves 2 sprigs
– Coconut oil as needed
5. Salt to taste

How to prepare

Pressure cook jackfruit seeds, preferably up to two whistles for making it soft. Meanwhile heat a pan, add oil and sauté the chopped spinach leaves.
Furthermore add coarsely ground ingredients 3, jackfruit seeds and salt. Sprinkle a little water, close the pan and cook on a low flame for two to three minutes.
Mix all the ingredients gently, till it becomes free of extra moisture.
Lastly garnish with ingredients 4.
Certainly you will like to have this tasty thoran with boiled rice. Kerala karimeen mappas, Kottayam fish curry etc. are also fine combinations for this, for a meal.

Cutlet with red spinach- simple Kerala recipes for beginners

Doubtlessly this cutlet is one of the best choices, for people who opt for veg dishes. Surely it is delicious as well as nutritious, and a variety snack for kids.
Likewise you can make it very easily through simple steps. The most important advantage, is that you need only the minimum ingredients as well as cooking time.

Cooking time: 60 minutes
Ingredients needed:
1. Spinach leaves finely chopped 2 cups
2. Potato boiled, peeled and mashed 3 medium sized
3. – Onion chopped 1medium sized
– Green chilli chopped 2 no
– Ginger finely chopped 1 tsp
– Curry leaves finely chopped 1 tsp
4. Fennel seeds crushed 2tsp
Black pepper crushed 1 tsp
5. Salt to taste
6. For coating

-Bread crumbs 1 cup
-Maida made in to batter 1 cup
7. Coconut oil for frying

How to make

To start with, firstly fry ingredients 3 in a little oil till the onion becomes translucent. Secondly add mashed potatoes, crushed fennel seeds, black pepper and salt. Mix well all the ingredients together.
Further make small balls, preferably each one with the size of a lemon. Flatten them by pressing with your palms.
Simultaneously heat oil in a pan on a medium flame.
Before frying the cutlet, first make a thin coating on each cutlet with the maida batter and then bread crumbs.
After that, fry the cutlets in hot oil till the surface becomes golden brown.
Serve your spinach cutlet with tomato sauce, and definitely you will enjoy it with a cup of tea.

Other spinach recipes popular in Kerala

Given above are only a few examples of simple recipes with red spinach. Besides, you can use this nutritious leafy vegetable to make many Kerala dishes.

Likewise Cheera aviyal, cheera pachadi, cheera mutta thoran etc. are a few other dishes.
Of course, you can try even more delicious dishes with red spinach. Because they are really very simple and at the same time highly nutritious.

Grow banana trees for backyards that you can do easily, especially in tropical places like Kerala. In addition to Asia and Africa, many Latin American countries widely cultivate these fruit trees.

Plant varieties of Kerala – to grow banana trees for backyards

However in Kerala, we have certain indigenous banana varieties, with fruits that are delicious and nutritious too. Njali Poovan, Palayan kodan, Nendran, etc. are a few of the popular varieties. Furthermore, Kadali is a special type of plantain fruits that are having medicinal properties. Commonly Kadali fruits are used for making ayurvedic medicines and for pooja purposes in temples.

Not only the fruits, but we can use almost all parts of banana plants for culinary purposes. Undoubtedly these are sources of a lot of nutrients, that are available on a cheaper budget.

For example, we can use the flowers and the middle stem of the plant, for making delicious dishes.

Health benefits of cooking in leaves

Likewise cooking food in banana leaves, is having a lot of health benefits. Polyphenol, the waxy coating on the surface of the leaves, is one of our most needed antioxidants.

Packing food in banana leaves is very common in Kerala.

Memories of lunch that we had during our school days, is really a nostalgia for most of us.The unique flavour and aroma of boiled rice and side dishes wrapped in banana leaves, is really tempting.

Sadya is the feast that we serve on cut banana leaves on special occasions, like functions and festivals. Onam and Vishu are the two most celebrated festivals of Kerala.

Additionally, banana plant with fruits and flowers is an unavoidable decorative item for festivals. Truly it is equally fantastic as any other ornamental trees in our gardens.

To detoxify – Grow banana trees for backyards

According to NASA’s clean air studies, the banana plant is one of the best detoxifying plants. Definitely, we can grow these trees, which can absorb formaldehyde, toluene, etc. from the air.

Preferably like other air purifying plants that are popularly used for detoxification. Spider  plant, Snake plant, Aglaonema, ZZ Plant, Holy basil, etc. are a few examples.

Also different species of dwarf ornamental banana trees are ideal for indoors. Of course, you can grow these plants in balconies or patios where they get bright sunlight. Especially for about four to six hours a day.

Further, it will be really awesome to have these beautiful plants with flowers and fruits in different colours.

Indeed, the dwarf indoor banana plants will go well with a few bonsai trees. Ficus benjamina, Ficus ginseng microcarpa, the Fukien tea tree, Jade, Schefflera, Bougainville etc. are examples.

A short description about Banana trees – Grow for backyards

Musaeceae is the broad family in which different species of banana plants belong. Significantly most of them are having edible fruits, that are delicious as well as nutritious. Certainly we can use it either in the raw form, or for making dishes.

Generally, these are perennials having succulent stems. Broad leaves, composite flowers and fruits in bunches make the plant unique. Woody stems are absent for the plant, because the trunk is composed of compactly packed fleshy sheaths. As and when the fruits attain maturity the mother plant dies. Meanwhile, lots of baby plants develop from the base of the plant, that we can use for propagation.
Normally, flower buds appear from the upper tip of the central stem, which is the outgrowth of the underground corms.

Nendran-one of the most popular Kerala banana varieties for backyards.

Vazha is the common name in Malayalam language for all species of banana plants. Nendran, also known as Etha vazha, is Kerala’s own banana plant variety, having many specialties.

Above all, many farmers find it profitable, cultivating this variety of banana plants on a large scale.

Given below are some important uses of the plant

Fruits : Delicious dishes we prepare with ripe as well as mature raw fruits, are very popular.

Consuming one ripe fruit along with fresh lime juice can really make us feel good even for a whole day. Occasionally when we are forced to skip lunch, due to the hectic schedule at workplaces.

Pazham pori, is one of the most important tea time snacks in almost all tea shops in Kerala. Likewise, easy to digest steam cooked ripe banana is equally good for kids and elder people.

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By frying thinly sliced raw bananas in pure coconut oil, we can make crispy chips. Besides, finely powdered dried raw banana, is a nutritious diet for infants. Instead of tinned baby food, it is widely used in Kerala.

Flowers:
Plantain flower is equally good for making dishes, especially a combination with coconut. Cutlets made with banana flowers are really one of the best choices for people who opt for veg dishes.

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Inner stem: According to the elderly people of Kerala, we should consume cooked banana stem at least once a year. Because it can remove a lot of toxins from our body.

Owing to its medicinal properties, people use the fresh juice of banana stems. Chiefly as an effective remedy for hyperacidity and other stomach disorders.

With the following simple tips, we can grow banana plants very easily in our backyards.

Underground rhizomes known as corms, are popularly used for growing baby banana plants. Soon after the completion of harvesting, we can collect these from the base of the mother plants.

Evidently almost all nurseries is in Kerala sell good quality saplings of different species of banana plants. Moreover, plants that are developed through the tissue culture process always give higher yields.

How to plant

First, select sunny locations for your banana plant for better growth, because they always need bright sunlight.

Then make wide pits, preferably with dimensions 1.5×1.5×1.5 ft.

After that, fill the pit with a growing mixture for the plant. River sand, leaf compost and dried cow dung combined together in equal quantities, is ideal.

Adding any organic pesticides can prevent the roots, from decaying due to the attack of certain harmful insects and worms.

Caring your banana trees

Never forget to water the plant on a regular basis. Similarly fertilising your banana plants with any organic manure at intervals of thirty days, is very essential

However your banana plants will start blooming after six months, if you care it properly. Surprisingly, the 28th foliage that appears from a healthy plant, will be the flower stalk.

Normally it takes about ninety days, for the fruits to mature.

For the next cultivation, we can surely use the saplings that sprout from the base of the mother plant.

Diseases

Bunchy top is the most dreadful one among the common problems of banana plants in tropical places. Removing the infected plants away from the healthy ones, is the most effective remedy for this.

Keeping the above points in mind, try to grow banana trees for your backyards. Experience and enjoy the freshness of fruits, flowers and even leaves of your own plant.

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