_{Gardeners seek climate-resilient plants as heat rises}

Panaji: As temperatures soar in Goa, consumer demand for low-maintenence summer resilient ornamental plants are seeing a rise.“Desert roses, in particular, are gaining popularity as they are known for their ability to store water in their leaves or stems, allowing them to endure dry conditions,” Shruti Vernekar, a small-scale plant grower from Tivim, told TOI. She also added that such plants have the ability to withstand the harsh summers. “People now prefer buying plants like snake plants and rubber plants because they can survive without water for up to 15 days,” said Vernekar.Despite operating from a village location, Vernekar sees steady footfall daily. However, demand surges during exhibitions and urban sales events, where she reports up to 50 customers a day. Pricing remains relatively accessible, with smaller plants starting at Rs 150 per plant, medium-sized plants priced around Rs 250, and larger specimens going up to Rs 500 or more.A horticulture consultant, Miguel Braganca, said, “In the coming decade, plant choices will be dictated by climate. People will look for hardy plants that still provide colour and visual appeal, but with minimal resource use.” Among the emerging favourites are bromeliads — ornamental plants with colourful foliage, including varieties like earth stars (cryptanthus). Demand is also being driven by erratic municipal water supply, particularly in urban areas. “Crotons, once a staple in Goan gardens, are now disappearing because they require too much water during summer,” said Shilpa Makandar, another grower.