Income upto one lakh; Ornamental plants for rent; Shyama's idea big hit

ALAPPUZHA: Shyama Siji, a native of Kanjikuzhi, is an entrepreneur with an idea that not many have tried. The idea of ​​renting out ornamental plants grown in the backyard is a venture that now generates an income of about one lakh rupees per month.

Shyama's ornamental plants are used even in government programs, including the Republic Day celebration in Alappuzha. Bougainvillaea plants fill Ponnittussery house, located in Kanjikuzhi, Cherthala. The most common occasion when plants are rented for decoration is for housewarmings. Some people rent them for up to three days. The rent ranges from Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 6,000 for an event.

The conditions are that the plants must be properly maintained, and the branches must not be broken or the flowers destroyed. Shyama's garden has bougainvilleas up to six feet tall. The rent is based on their size and the colour of the flowers. The bougainvillea season is from November to May. It needs proper care the rest of the time.

Shyama is supported by her husband S Siji, employed at the legal metrology department, and her parents Siddharthan and Pushpavalli, to take care of the plants. Theertha and Artha are her children.

Bougainvillea House

Shyama's idea was born from bougainvillea plants that were cut from houses during the renovation of the national highway. Her husband Siji brought the plants home, and they became a source of income four years ago. Now, the 35 cents of land where Shyama's house is located is full of bougainvillea. There are about 200 plants here. Of these, 35 types are hybrid plants. There is also a nursery called Bougainvillea Garden at home. There are plants that are more than 30 years old here. There are bougainvilleas in the collection priced between Rs 400 and Rs 10,000.

👉I started growing plants as a hobby. But today it is a good source of income.

- Shyama Siji