New Delhi: Dr. G.S. Iyengar, renowned horticulturist and landscapist, is an experienced proprietor with a demonstrated history of working in the environmental services industry. Skilled in negotiation, strategic planning, business development, business strategy, and project management, he is a strong entrepreneurship professional with a Master’s degree focused in horticulture/soil science with further specialization in landscape hardscape and softscape from University of Mumbai.
Patronized by many a large corporate today, he was also director of horticulture and landscaping with the Oberoi Hotels. It’s he who has ingrained in several enthusiasts the fundamentals of gardening, commencing from selection of plants, the different planting techniques, identification of plant disorders and common diseases by specific species, best practices for their treatment, irrigation systems and allied skills. His guidance continues even to this date, as his repertoire of knowledge is unfathomable in these domains.
In an exclusive interview with this scribe (Shri Ram Shaw), Dr. Iyengar divulged the details about horticulture, landscape, hardscape and softscape, naturescapes, organic cultivation and et al.
EXCERPTS:
You are an experienced proprietor with a demonstrated history of working in the environmental services industry. Kindly tell us something about yourself and your work in brief.
Iyengar: My professional journey commenced from 1958 (64 years) taking me to various parts of country, having varied agro-climatic conditions. This led me to practically see and learn nuances of our profession. Project developed – 1 acre to 852 acres having diverse eco-conditions. Each project was different in planning and development to suit local conditions, purpose and need. Yes, it was challenging. Major time (working hours) I spent outdoors with nature – average 9 hrs/day in developing suitable Hardscape/Softscape-gardens. I utilized opportunities to observe, study and personally attend to acquire hands-on practical experience. I even visited many places of professional interest and read many books on related subject-matters.
You have spent more than six decades in all aspects of landscape and horticulture. How’s been your journey so far? According to you, what are the nuances in modern landscape?
Iyengar: Modern landscape emphasizes sustainability, incorporating technology and urban planning to create functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces that adapt to evolving environmental and social needs. It also focuses on cultural diversity and community engagement reflecting a broader range of perspectives and values in design.
How important is landscaping in the community and public areas?
Iyengar: If planned, designed and developed scientifically, apart from aesthetics (beautification) they are major lung spaces in urban areas. They have serene and tranquil localized atmosphere. They’re localized storehouses of atmospheric Oz. They provide clean air and act as sound barrier. They invite birds and butterflies. Also, they act as places of learning and feeling the Nature.
What are the career options for an incumbent in the horticulture sector?
Iyengar: There are plenty of career options for an incumbent in the horticulture sector. Demand for horticulture products, commercialization, modern life-style have directly impacted demand for experienced Horticulturists. In addition, increased atmospheric pollution (global warming), reduction in forest areas, increase in contaminated food, etc., have necessitated greening, sustainable plant-covers, organic way of life. All these demand good Horticulturist.
You are a mentor and guide to many who ingrained in his ‘disciples’ the fundamentals of gardening. Kindly share your experiences in this regards.
Iyengar: Landscape gardening is a vast subject. Local climate has direct impact on our projects. We directly involve and deal with nature, encountering many problems. This needs devotion, dedication and practical experience to achieve desired results. Hence, our presence in the field (with Nature), keen observation and support from theoretical knowledge are important to get quality results. About 95% of my disciples have successfully followed and achieved this. Green-horns have become Green-fingers.
The whole world is grappling with the menace of global warming and climate change. What do you think the solutions are?
Iyengar: By designing green spaces, urban forests and sustainable landscapes that sequester carbon and reduce heat island effect in localised areas. It promotes environmentally conscious practices, reducing emissions and conserving resources. Importance of plants for sustenance of this earth (mankind) is imperative. Their existence is inter-related and cannot be debated. Their major contributions in mitigating global warming are – Help increase atmospheric oxygen, purify atmospheric pollution in addition to directly reduce water, soil and sound pollutants. ‘Go-Green’ concept has direct bearing on Ecology.
