UDHAGAMANDALAM: Flowering plants are being planted in the Government Botanical Garden in Ooty ahead of the second tourist season scheduled to begin in September. Around four lakh flowering plants, representing 45 varieties, will be planted ahead of the second season.The Nilgiris receives visitors throughout the year, but footfall peaks during the two main tourist seasons. The first season –April and May –draws a large number of tourists from Tamil Nadu and features the annual flower show.The second season, spanning September and October, attracts more visitors from other states and abroad. Though no formal flower show is organised then, the garden is decorated with extensive floral displays and 35,000 flowerpots.Officials have said work is progressing rapidly on flowerbeds in the garden. In the first phase, marigold, dahlia, daisy and calendula have been planted in the Italian Garden. Planting is also under way near the main entrance and in the Japanese Garden. Ornamental plants are being shaped into topiary installations, including an “I Love Ooty” display. Preparations are under way for planting in 35,000 pots.After the planting phase is completed, horticulture staffers will begin regular maintenance to ensure healthy growth and flowering. Most of the plants are expected to bloom after the second week of September.
