Double planting

The bed of bamboo shoots is used to plant Cana plants which flowers seasonally. This double planting is a popular concept which has some challenges in gardening! 

This is common sight in some parts of Kerala, where pine apples are grown in rubber tree plantations when the trees are still growing, before the commencement of tapping for milk. 

The moisture in the soil ought to be right for both plants. The chemistry of the soil ought to suit both plants alike. The sunlight and shadow in the right proportion ought to suit both plants. All these are challenges which need experience and professional approach.

There are some advantages. The land use is maximised. In gardens, we can allow seasonal flowering plants to grow to make the tree bed look eye-pleasing. Most flowering plants grow by spreading the roots in the superficial layers of the soil which does not disturb the roots of the tree such as the bamboo which tend to grow deeper. The leaves of the bamboo protects the flowering plants from exposure to extremes of sunlight. 

When we are short of space for planting flowering plants, consider using the bed of tall trees of bushes. It makes the garden even more aesthetic and colourful!

M.C.Mathew (text and photo)