Introduction
One of my favourites & easy to care perennial vine is butterfly pea. Its widely known as butterfly pea, blue pea, Asian pigeonwings, Aparajita, Shankupushpam belongs to tropical & subtropical region having different medicinal values. Mainly find in daily pooja flowers & has special place in most of the gardens in India.
Mythological Significance:
The Aparajita flower, also known as Clitoria Ternatea, is said to be a favourite of Lord Shiva because of its deep blue color, which is believed to symbolize the third eye of Lord Shiva. Additionally, the flower's beauty and fragrance are said to represent the divine beauty and purity of Lord Shiva. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva is often depicted holding a garland of Aparajita flowers, which is said to represent his devotion and love for his consort, Parvati.
Scientific name: Clitoria ternatea
Family - Fabaceae
Growing methods:
It is easily grown from seed- You need to file seeds & soke them in luck warm water for 24 hours. Seeds will swallow little you can keep them in moist tissue paper or in cocopeat under indirect sunlight within 4-8 days babies will be out & once true leaves appears with 3 set of leaves you can easily transplant them in container.
If growing from cutting cut the semi hardwood branch & dip into rooting hormone or honey to stimulate root development & insert gently into soil.
Climate:
Blue pea is a native to tropical climate. This means the blue pea can be grown easily in hot and humid climate. Daily 4-8 Horus of sunlight is enough to stimulate blooms but it can be grown in partial shade as well.
Lighting:
Gokarna plants require bright indirect light to thrive. Keep the plant near a window which can filter the harsh sunlight. Less light may make the leaves look dull and discolored.
Watering:
Butterfly pea is a perfect drought-resistant plant but you should water these regularly for healthier green look and frequent flowering. The requirement for water to these plants is less. It is tolerant of drought. But it gives the best results when watered daily.
Humidity:
Gokarna plants like higher humidity such as misting with water.
Fertilizer:
This vine thrives with minimum fertilizer requirement. Mine bloom well without any special feed requirement You can use DAP or dry banana peels to get more blooms provided plant is exposed to good amount of sunlight. Also mentioned earlier you can use onion peel water to get good result.
Potting Mix:
Since vine is less demanding you can grow in any soil mix, I used 50% of garden soil + 20% Vermi compost + 10% of Sand + 10% of cow dung+10% of neem powder.
Container size:
Vine can be easily grown in 6inch to 12inch container.
Pest and Disease control:
Blue Pea is not prone to any serious diseases. It is only affected by the fungal root rot diseases. This is only due to the problem of over watering or water standing in pot. Sometime white flies or mites can attack plant but it can be easily saved by using detergent spray with few drops of vegetable oil. If infection persist you can use tobacco water to save plant from severe pet’s attack.
Pruning:
Prune back damaged or yellowing leaves. Gokarna will respond well to pruning. Cut the top of the plant back to encourage new growth and fuller foliage. Pruning vine at growing stage will encourage new branches and give bushier look. You need to pinch the tips of fresh growth to get dense look once you get desire shape stop pinching it. As mentioned in my earlier articles more branches = more flowers equation will definitely make you happy to see multiple blooms.
Few important tips for keeping your blue pea healthy and blooming year around:
Use rich soil. Soil that is light and rich in compost or manure provides plenty of nutrients constantly to the plants
Remove faded bloom and deadhead often to get more flowers.
To promote flowering use fertilizer rich in potash. Banana peel and Onion peel water work best.
Let the sun shine – Give direct sunlight at least 4 hours every day.
Moderate watering.
Prevention is better than cure – Neem oil with liquid detergent spary to get rid of insects (Every alternate week)
Gokarna plants are unique and beautiful. They can add an exotic touch to your home or office. With proper care, you can enjoy the striking beauty of this plant for years to come.
So friends follow above tips to grow healthy plant & enjoy colourful gorgeous blooms throughout year.
Take a look at few of my Gokarnna flowers from my balcony !
Happy Gardening !
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