Meet the engineer who transformed his home into a lush paradise with over 400 exotic plant species!
by Ekta ChaubeyDriven by a love for plants, engineer Subrat Kumar Nath has turned his home into a lush ‘mini forest’ filled with rare flowers and fruit-bearing plants. A resident of Budharaja in Sambalpur, Odisha, in eastern India, his green haven reflects a lifelong passion for nature.
Discussing the cyclical nature of plant growth, Nath explained that different plants flourish in different seasons. For example, lotuses bloom in summer, mangoes thrive between summer and the rainy season, and lilies bloom at night during summer and mid-monsoon.
Visuals showcase a variety of exotic plants, including Solandra maxima, pitcher plants, purple foxtail orchids, Hydrangea macrophylla, and Echinopsis cactus (also known as the pink cactus). Other notable plants include authentic pink lotuses, white lotuses, and mango trees. These rare and beautiful species require careful attention and meticulous care to thrive, giving the garden the appearance of a miniature forest and creating a serene, enchanting atmosphere.
Speaking to Newslions, Subrat Kumar Nath shared how his love for gardening stems from childhood. He recalled watching his parents tend to their garden and carrying the aspiration that, once he owned a home, he would cultivate rare and exotic plants.
He detailed the challenges he faces in growing these plants, highlighting climate as a significant obstacle. For instance, he explained that pitcher plants require unique conditions that differ from those of his region, necessitating artificial shelters like greenhouses. Orchids and similar plants, which need filtered sunlight and minimal watering compared to other species, also require specialised care.
Another challenge Nath addressed is dealing with insects. While some insects are essential for plant health, others pose a threat. To minimise chemical use, he employs alternative methods to protect his plants, though he admitted this can be laborious. Additionally, the rare and exotic nature of his plants demands specific placement and care to meet their individual needs.
He proudly mentioned being recognised by the Odisha government with the Prakriti Bandhuaward in 2020 for his contributions to promoting greenery. He is also actively involved in government plantation initiatives.
Nath dreams of inspiring a generation passionate about greenery. He envisions every young person planting at least one tree annually, whether to mark their birthday or another special occasion. However, he emphasised that planting must be paired with proper care and maintenance. Nath advocates for integrating gardening into education, proposing it as a compulsory subject with practical exams. He believes this would instil an early appreciation for nature in children and encourage parents and guardians to support their efforts.
In his words, “Everyone, especially the youth, must come forward to contribute to the planet’s greenery and welfare.”