Hyderabad is buzzing with excitement as the 18th Grand Nursery Mela kicks off at People’s Plaza on Necklace Road. This All India Horticulture Show started on Thursday and will continue until September 22. The event, a big hit every year, turns the venue into a haven for garden and plant lovers.
This year’s mela is bigger, featuring 150 stalls from nurseries and horticultural groups across Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Delhi, Haryana, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. Khaleed Ahmed, the event coordinator, mentions that the exhibition focuses on more than just plants; it also highlights modern gardening techniques. He notes that terrace gardening, vertical gardening, and hydroponic systems are key attractions, gaining interest among city dwellers.
Visitors will find a remarkable variety of plants. Some stalls offer up to 1,000 plant varieties, while others present smaller, carefully selected collections. Whether you’re a serious collector or a beginner, there’s something for everyone.
The mela showcases a wide range of plants, including bonsais, adeniums, water lilies, and creepers, along with both indoor and outdoor options. Additionally, attendees can find organic and inorganic manure, coco peat, garden tools, and farming equipment. A unique stall from Kalimpong, West Bengal, featuring rare and exotic plants, is expected to draw many visitors.
Prices vary greatly, starting at Rs 500 for common plants and reaching up to Rs 15,000 for the rarest finds, catering to different budgets. This year, inclusivity is a priority, with stalls run by differently-abled entrepreneurs. Food stalls are available to ensure a comfortable, extended visit. The mela will be officially inaugurated by Yasmin Basha, Director of Telangana Horticulture, with a special visit from Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao.
