In our solar system sun is the basic source of energy and plants are the only available medium to capture and convert solar energy for our requirements. Though plants provide us food, fuel, medicine, etc, we are the only reason for massive deforestation. This is taking a heavy toll over our atmosphere, causing Global Warming, irregular rainfall, soil erosion, etc.

At least one of every eight plant species in the world is under threat of extinction, according to the first comprehensive worldwide assessment of plant endangerment.

Apart from the much needed afforestation, there is an imperative need for growing as many plants as possible, whether economical or ornamental, in home gardens, in parks and other public gardens in waste lands, river banks & any other places where possible.

A home or a neighborhood with well planned greenery not only enhances the aesthetic beauty of the place but also contributes to the environment.There are innumerable species of plants available for both home gardening and outdoor garden and each ones requirement is different from others. So, to grow and nurse different plants in your garden, you must have some understanding of the nature and the characteristics of the plants, their growth habit and environment, soil & nutrient requirements. It is often observed that under favorable conditions, plants flourish into their characteristic shapes & sizes. Whereas, a change in any of the above requirements of plant affect it's growth adversely. Like in case of house plants, though most of them thrive well in semi-shade, their foliage attains bright color if exposed to bright defused light or to morning sun for a few hours. Another aspect consider very important for achieving success in growing ornamental plants is the porous and well drained substrate, whether in ground or in pot. This is more important in tropical countries, like India, where peat is not easily available for using in pot compost. There is no doubt that a less fertile but porous soil or potting medium promotes plant's growth better than a fertile but sticky soil. In tropical countries, bulky organic matters commonly used in pot for growing ornamental plants are farmyard manure and leaf mold. Also coir dust (from coconut husk) or sawdust may be used.

Regarding propagation of tropical, woody, ornamental plants it can be said that 90 percent of them rooted well from cuttings under intermittent mist. Many tree species, when grown from rooted cuttings, show slow growth and remain comparatively smaller in size than from seedlings. In recent years several tree species are being multiplied through micro propagation.

All the knowledge and experience are important as well as essential for growing plants either indoors or outdoors. It is a fascinating study and a pleasant experience also. Bringing all the plants in a single canvas is not only impossible, but also foolishness. We therefore tried here to provide some information about some common plants used in India.