Elsa Angel Rose
Summer or winter, beautiful flowers have to glow. Ideally, without wasting time planting flowers that rarely bloom in summer and take a lot of effort, plants such as Water Jasmine, Bougainvillaea, and more could be the smart choice. It will save time, money and offer a heart-warming sight for the front yards, backyard or balcony gardens. Currently, Goa is at the onset of summer, and spring is coming to an end. It is certainly going to become hot and humid, making it difficult for some plants to survive. But maintaining the aesthetic of one’s garden should not be a choice of weather.
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Water Jasmine
Don’t get fooled by the name or the looks; these beautiful pearl-white flowers do not belong to the Jasmine family. Highly fragrant, with small white flowers and glossy green leaves, water Jasmine belongs to the Apocynaceae (dogbane) family, making it more closely related to plants like Plumeria or Oleander than to true jasmines. This is one of the most easily grown flowers in Goa, given the high humidity and warm temperatures. “Goa’s coastal humidity closely matches the plant’s native tropical conditions (Southeast Asia). This humidity is essential for maintaining lush foliage and better flowering. Average temperatures in Goa (25°C–35°C) and regular rainfall are a bonus, offering steady growth for the flower. Regular rainfall during monsoon supports deep root development as it mimics the plant’s natural habitat near water bodies,” said Anisha Nunes, Proprietor of a Plant Nursery. This flower goes by many different names, including Sacred Wrightia and Wild Water Plum.
The Golden Gardenia
This shrub has good chances of blooming in Goa during March-April. “Golden Gardenia is well-suited for spring and early summer in Goa, as it adapts naturally to the conditions during this season. The temperature range of 20°C to 32°C supports its ideal growth. The increased sunlight helps encourage healthy flowering. Moderate humidity in early summer also aids in bud formation without putting a lot of stress on the plant. Additionally, gardenia plants are in their active growth and blooming phase during the warmer months, making this season especially favourable for them,” said Anisha. The Golden Gardenia is highly fragrant, with glossy green leaves, and 4.5-inch flowers that bloom white before turning golden-orange over several days.
Bougainvillea
Easily spotted anywhere, in pink, white and more shades, if planted during the spring and summer season, it will certainly bloom to its fullest. “Bougainvillaea grows beautifully in spring as well as summer. The heat makes them bloom even better, unlike most other plants. And what is even more interesting is that they don’t need everyday watering, making it one of the least maintenance plants,” said Shilpa Mense, Plant enthusiast and rare plant collector from Mapusa.
Bougainvillaea thrives in bright sunlight, and fortunately, we have plenty of it. It grows best in well-drained, airy soil that allows the roots to breathe. With the right fertilisation and care, it can transform the garden into a lively, colourful space full of vibrant blooms. “Most local bougainvillaea varieties can be grown in the ground where they will get some support to grow – Ideally a pergola or a fence. Hybrids, however, do better in pots,” said Shilpa. She further explained an ideal way to grow the flower: “Select a small pot. Proper potting mix – soil, vermicompost, rough sand (washed & dried), neemcake and some organic manure will help the plant’s growth and give desired blooms. I recommend banana peel water and eggshell powder. Mustard cake too, makes an excellent feed for bougainvillaea.” According to her, nitrogen-based fertiliser should be fully avoided.
Frangipani / Plumeria
“Frangipanis generally grow big, and hence they do better in the ground. Grow them at about 1.5 meters distance apart, and you can actually create a beautiful tropical forest for yourself. Ensure that they are given good feed when planting. They need regular phosphorus-based feed during their blooming season,” said Shilpa. Plumeria also loves the hot and humid weather. In fact, it is a season for them to wake up from their hibernation. “Their blooms are simply spectacular and remain for a couple of days on the plant. They also don’t need much watering during the summer,” said Shilpa.
Summer Gardening Essentials
In the hot summer, it is pertinent to maintain and increase the water-holding capacity of the soil. “Add coco peat to the soil to increase its water-holding capacity (WHC). After transplanting, cover the soil around the plants with dry leaves or hay as much as possible. It prevents the drying of soil,” shared Miguel Braganza, horticultural consultant and mentor. Using organic fertilisers will be most beneficial for the flowers. Miguel added, “Kitchen waste can easily be converted into compost in an old drum (water, oil, paint) with a lid, bucket or even on the ground, using a polythene sheet below and another to cover it. Add Panchagaya or EM solution or fresh cow dung in water as an accelerator for composting.”
