Kochi: Once again it is the time to feel the wonders of colours and flowery treat in Kochi. The 37th annual Cochin flower show organised by the Ernakulam District Agri-Horticulture Society has begun at the Marine Drive on Friday. The show has 5,000 square feet of flower patterns, vegetable carving, terrarium and the arrangement of 45,000 square feet of flowering plants.
More than 65 species of 65,000 plants are being exhibited including rare Bonsai collections. More than 4,000 exotic varieties of roses and different kinds of Anthuriums, Dahlias, Dianthus, Marigold, Chinese Broccoli, Orchids, and Celia are displayed.
The show is organised by a 20-member governing council chaired by district collector K. Muhammad Y Safirulla. Agencies like Farm Information Bureau, Agriculture department, Horticulture mission and Spices Board are also part of the show. The Agriculture department has an agri clinic which provides guidelines on the 'automated irrigation system' for those who are interested in setting up gardens in terrace and balconies.
The motto of the 37th edition of the flower show is 'Let Kerala Re-flower'. The profit from the flower show will be contributed to the Chief Minister's Distress Relief Fund," said Prof. Jacob Varghese, exhibition ground convener.
Twenty six nurseries from various districts have set up stalls with saplings, flowering and vegetable plants for sale. Various government agencies and private firms also have stalls in the expo.
There will be cultural programmes and contests in connection with the expo. The 10-day show will be on till January 13.
