Its not technically a garden. Its more of a forest really. This is a government-run tree nursery located on Sopan Baug Road. It is also home to some really old and one-off trees in the city. It is a must on the places-to-visit list for tree lovers or botany students. I had visited the Forest Garden Nursery a couple of years ago on a field botany trip and even now, the place has retained its ‘Forest’ like atmosphere. The trees are really tall with not much sunshine reaching the floor. This means there are a lot of small herbs, shrubs growing there which gives you more study material. The property has some green houses where I think they conduct their research or try to germinate seeds or house the young still delicate saplings.
Soaring stately Ceiba pentandra trees are important residents at the Forest Garden. Experts tell us that these can be called ‘Heritage’ trees as they seem to be over 100 years old. In fact, author Shrikant Ingalhalikar has included a photograph of these trees in the Preface of his book ‘Trees of Pune‘ (page 12). The Page 232, lists some of the unique trees in this garden.
A few of the trees to be studied here are Ficus mollis, Alangium salvifolium, Sandbox tree (Hura crepitans), Buddha’s coconut (Pterygota alata), Rudraksha. The list is not complete as I would like to leave something for you to explore and enjoy.
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| Sand box tree |
Its not a place if you are looking to picnic or for kids to play or or for exercise or for general recreation.
A unique ‘garden’ indeed!
Info:
Parking: On the road and some available in the premises
Entry: Free
Timing: 10AM to 5PM Closed on Sundays and government holidays.
Location Map here.
wow you really have a lot of knowledge on trees. All I can distinguish is beautiful tree, skinny tree, dry tree 😛
Not really Rajlakshmi, I read and observe… As long as you notice trees you're on the right track!!! 😊
Great theme, and a very cool idea – love the forest research garden.
Thank you Bob.
Tree always fascinate me, and it was nice to read about the forest research garden.. thanks for sharing
Appreciate your comments Angela. Thanks.
Wow! You seem to know all the hidden spots!
Its all part of my 'local tourism' idea Vinitha 🙂 Knowing my city …
That would be an interesting place to visit. Too bad I'm so far away!
Thanks Debbie. You have my blog for an e-visit to Pune. 🙂