Lucknow, Jan 7: A spectacular burst of color has taken over the National Botanical Research Institute’s (NBRI) research station in Banthra, Lucknow, as approximately 60 red tulips have unexpectedly bloomed in the garden. Remarkably, botanists believe this could be the world’s first occurrence of tulips flowering in winter, challenging the usual springtime display in March and April.
The unusual bloom is attributed to the warm December experienced in Lucknow this year, accelerating the flowering process and creating an off-season marvel in unexpected soil and climate conditions. Three NBRI scientists—Director Ajit Kumar Shasany, Garden In-Charge cum Chief Scientist SK Tiwari, and Principal Scientist Rakesh Chandra Nainwal—are behind this groundbreaking achievement.
The team dedicated efforts since October to cultivate and nurture tulip bulbs, overcoming the challenges posed by the weather and soil conditions. Opting for clay soil in Banthra, on the outskirts of Lucknow, instead of the institute’s main campus, the scientists selected five tulip varieties, including white, pink, yellow, orange, and the challenging ‘red’ variety.
SK Tiwari, with four decades of experience in curating NBRI’s annual flower show, shared the details of this pioneering venture. He highlighted the importance of temperature in tulip growth, emphasizing specific temperature ranges for different phases of the flower’s development.
NBRI Director Ajit Kumar Shasany stated that the successful cultivation of tulips in Lucknow marks a significant milestone in the institute’s efforts to diversify floricultural research and introduce new ornamental crops in the region. Tulips, known for their vibrancy and ornamental appeal, typically thrive in temperate climates with specific growing conditions.
The unexpected success in Banthra research station showcases the dedication and expertise of NBRI scientists in adapting delicate flowers to the local climate. Shasany expressed optimism about the potential impact, foreseeing new economic opportunities for local farmers and the development of tulip varieties better suited to the Indian climate.
