Sunder Nursery: Natural Conservation
The semi-formal part of Sundar Nursery, or the wilderness, lies towards the northeastern section of the park. The Wilderness is planted with native trees collected from the ridge, riverine, and marshy landscapes of Delhi.
Some key attractions are:
Lake & rivulets
Bonsai House
Microhabitat Zones
Model Farms
The urban forests at Sunder Nursery have been planted using the Miyawaki method. Developed by a Japanese botanist and ecologist, Prof Akira Miyawaki, it draws inspiration from natural ecosystems to create 100% organic, dense and diverse forests in 20-30 years.
The Miyawaki method mimics the way a forest would re-colonise itself if humans stepped away. These plantations offer viable solutions to cities wanting to create quick forests and build climate resilience.
Seedlings are planted densely, of mostly native trees. In approximately three years, through a process of natural selection, the trees that have adapted the best develop at a quicker rate.
Conservation Features
Lake
Lakes & Rivulets in the nursery house over 30 lakh liters of water and are home to several species of water-living plants, floating plants, and submerged. The lake in the low-lying area serves as a holding tank for water required for irrigation and encourages birds in the rivulet zone. Every drop of rain that falls is either stored in the lakes and underground tanks or recharges the groundwater aquifers through the seven 16th-century wells.
Bonsai Garden
The park features a notable Bonsai House, established in the 1950s by bonsai enthusiast Mr. V.P. Agnihotri. This dedicated space showcases a collection of 373 bonsais across 34 varieties, some of which are over 90 years old, reflecting the art and tradition of bonsai cultivation.
Arboretum or "Museum of Trees" and Habitat
Here in Delhi's first arboretum lie over 300 species of trees, with some being the lone species in India. These also serve as a prime bird habitat with over 80 species of birds, 60 species of butterflies, and Asiatic bees.
Hidden Gems Inside The Nursery
The revived Miswak tree
Location: near the Lake, before crossing the bridge to Azim Bagh
Serenity Amphitheatre
Location: Near the Arched Pavilion, in the Wilderness
Secret Garden
Location: ?
More in the Sunder Nursery series
