SKUAST-K throws open its “Guli Dawood” Garden

Srinagar, Oct 31: Vice Chancellor SKUAST-K Professor Nazir Ahmad Ganai unveiled an impressive spectrum of Chrysanthemum varieties in the “Gul Dawood Garden” at the experimental field of Division of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, Faculty of Horticulture Shalimar.
Chrysanthemums, often celebrated for their autumnal bloom, hold a potential promise in Kashmir’s floral landscape, which is predominantly celebrated for spring blossoms, particularly in the renowned Tulip Garden. Recognizing this, the Hon’ble Vice Chancellor proposed establishing a dedicated Chrysanthemum Garden in the valley.
His vision holds the potential to transform the autumn landscape of Kashmir, much as the Tulip Garden enhances its spring appeal for tourists from all over the world. By adding a Chrysanthemum garden, the Kashmir valley could diversify its tourist attractions, potentially drawing lakhs of visitors during the autumn months, thereby extending the tourist season and further embedding floriculture into the cultural and economic fabric of Kashmir.
This year’s Chrysanthemum show unveiled an impressive spectrum of more than 60 Chrysanthemum varieties in multiple shades, forms and colours showcasing the university’s dedication to floral diversity and aesthetic excellence. Such events are instrumental in promoting awareness and appreciation for flowers, advocating for biodiversity, and encouraging sustainable practices in managing environment. Moreover, SKUAST-Kashmir’s initiatives reflect a continuing effort to position Kashmir as a leading hub in floriculture, not only for springtime blooms but as a year-round floral destination.
The garden has been designed and conceived by faculty and students of the Division of F with the aim to promote commercial Chrysanthemum cultivation among flower growers and entrepreneurs. Garden is being appreciated by civil society and flower lovers drawing visitors from all walks of the society.
The opening ceremony was also attended by Professor Shabir Ahmad Wani (Dean Faculty of Horticulture) , Professor Neelofar ( Dean Students Welfare), and ex HoD’s Professor T M Paul and Professor Zahoor A Rather besides Professor Zahoor Ahmad Qadri.
Head, Division of Floriculture, Dr. Imtiyaz Nazki apprised the visiting dignitaries regarding the biodiversity of the Chrysanthemum collection, its importance in commercial Floriculture. Chrysanthemums flowers last for more than 45 days under Kashmir conditions. The Garden would continue to attract visitors for a number of days to come.