Full bloom in Byculla: Marvel at the beauty of BMC’s annual flower show in Mumbai this weekend

BMC staff along with helpers ready the venue ahead of the annual flower exhibition. Pics/Rumani Gabhare

Mumbai's calendar is blooming once again. As February sets in, the city's most vibrant annual tradition returns with the 29th edition of the Mumbai Flower Show, turning the Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Botanical Udyan into a floral retreat. From intricately shaped installations to freshly grown vegetables, the exhibition is organised by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and the Tree Authority.

Jeetendra Pardesshi

Jeetendra Pardesshi, superintendent of gardens and tree officer, says, "As we bring in the 29th edition of this show, all 24 administrative wards - labelled A to T - are assigned specific responsibilities. For instance, wards P and R handle vegetables, while M ward oversees landscaping, among other tasks."

With Musical Instruments as this year's theme, life-size representations of the tabla, harmonium, saxophone, guitar, and flute will be decorated using seasonal blossoms. Pardesshi emphasised, "Most planning takes around 45 to 60 days, but the most crucial phase is the night before the exhibition opens, when every flower and vegetable pot is personally monitored, as many require exceptional care."

Vegetable expert Dinesh Dattu Sakle says, "We've worked on this for months. I've been doing this for over 20 years, and my entire focus has been devoted to nurturing and taking care of these vegetables.

The Guide's fave picks

Garden Pansy or Viola x Wittrockiana

>> As Mumbai transitions out of winter, Garden Pansy or Viola × Wittrockiana stands out prominently. Ideal for borders, hanging baskets, and mass planting during cooler conditions, it works well in landscaped spaces. Some varieties are considered edible by florists and plant experts.

Gomphrena Globosa widely recognised as Gomphrena

>> For those keen on attracting butterflies and other beneficial insects that support ecological balance, Gomphrena Globosa - commonly called Gomphrena - draws attention for its unique shape.

Celosia, popularly known as Cockscomb

>> Look out for the Celosia, also referred to as Cockscomb. Thriving in direct sunlight, this low-maintenance plant features vivid colours ranging from red and yellow to pink and orange, sometimes blended within a single flame-shaped bloom.

Sponge Gourd, or Luffa Cylindrica showcased in full bloom

>> From the dedicated vegetable section observe the Sponge Gourd, or Luffa Cylindrica, primarily a kharif crop; it appears in full growth, with blossoms still attached to the vine.

Bitter Gourd also identified as Momordica Charantia L

>> Bitter gourd (Momordica Charantia L), commonly known as karela, features alongside Cruciferae family crops such as cauliflower and broccoli.

Zucchini or Cucurbita Pepo

>> A closer look reveals rows of Zucchini (Cucurbita Pepo), displayed in shades of orange, green, and yellow, completing the harvest-focused spread.

Till: February 8; 8 am to 8 pm
At: Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Botanical Udyan and Zoo, Lalbaug Flyover, Byculla East.