B. RATHINASABAPATHY and DR. ANANTHANENI SREENATH, Heartfulness Institute, Forests by Heartfulness.
Planting a tree is not just about placing a sapling in the soil—it’s about ensuring it thrives for generations to come. At Forests by Heartfulness (FBH), we don’t just plant trees, we cultivate soil sustainability, and long-term ecological balance. Through mindful planning and sustainable techniques, we are transforming barren landscapes into lush, thriving forests.
The Science Behind Mindful Plantation
On the eve of World Environment Day, June 5, 2025, we take a moment to celebrate the remarkable transformation of Kanha Shanti Vanam in Telangana state into a thriving green oasis. Through dedicated conservation efforts, strategic plantation initiatives, and a deep commitment to ecological restoration, Kanha has blossomed into a haven of biodiversity, setting an inspiring example of sustainable greening.
Forests by Heartfulness (FBH) follows a unique plantation strategy inspired by our global guide, Daaji. Every plantation initiative is planned with deep ecological insight, ensuring not just survival but thriving growth. Our approach, called Blue, Black, and Green (BBG), is a scientifically-backed technique that optimizes plant health and soil sustainability.
Before any plantation, we study the natural water flow across the landscape, especially during rainfall, to determine the most effective locations for rainwater harvesting ponds (Blue). These ponds enhance groundwater recharge and support plant hydration.
A week before planting, we dig one-meter-deep pits (Black), allowing the soil to cool and become aerated.
The pits are then layered with essential soil amendments, fostering a nutrient-rich environment for plant roots (Green). This method has been successfully implemented across various FBH plantations, yielding an impressive 90 to 95% plant survival rate.
Just as a balanced breakfast fuels our bodies, our BBG method provides all essential ingredients for a plant’s strong and healthy growth. By sharing these best practices, we invite others to adopt this holistic approach in their own plantation efforts.
The BBG Approach: A Sustainable Formula for Growth
1. Blue—Rainwater Harvesting and Water Management
Strategic rainwater harvesting ponds capture and store water during monsoons, ensuring year-round availability and reducing dependence on external water sources.
2. Black—Soil Enrichment for Maximum Water Retention and Nutrient Enhancement
We incorporate a scientifically-balanced mix of soil conditioners to enhance fertility and moisture retention:
Black Cotton Soil—
Retains water effectively,
preventing moisture loss and
supporting deeper root absorption.
Biochar—
A porous, carbon-rich substance
soaked in Jeevamrutham, boosting
microbial activity and nutrient
retention.
Vermicompost—
Organic compost derived from leaf
litter and food waste, enriching
soil with beneficial microbes.
Gel Polymer—
Helps retain moisture, reducing
water stress and ensuring steady
hydration for plant roots.
Neem Powder—
A natural remedy against harmful
nematodes, ensuring strong and
healthy roots.
Support Stick—
For the tall trees planted, we
provide staking to help them
withstand strong winds and
prevent them from bending.
3. Green—The Right Plants for a Thriving Ecosystem
Our plantations prioritize well-grown saplings, typically over six feet tall (depending on species), to ensure a strong start. We use a mix of mother soil and red soil for top layering, maintaining natural fertility while providing structural stability.
Transforming Landscapes
This science-backed method has not only transformed degraded lands but has also become a replicable model for sustainable afforestation. The growth and survival rates of trees planted with this approach have inspired many to embrace sustainable plantation practices.
Visitors to Kanha Shanti Vanam often marvel at the thriving greenery. At the main gate, after seeing the coconut tree in the median, their curiosity is piqued—why plant a fruit-bearing tree in such a location? This leads them to realize the success of tree translocation at Kanha. As they explore the Rainforest, Yatra Garden, Mandala Garden, Agroforestry, and Pond Ecosystem, they come to understand that plantation is not just about planting and watering; it requires deep dedication and scientific care.
Most visitors experience a rejuvenating breath of fresh oxygen, the calming green landscapes, and the fragrance of diverse flowers. Their ultimate question remains: How old are these plants, and how do you maintain such an atmosphere?
Our answer to all who ask is simple: First, we ensure a reliable water source and rainwater harvesting provision. Second, we use black cotton soil to retain water, reducing the need for frequent irrigation. Third, biochar enhances soil nutrients. Finally, we plant taller, well-grown saplings to ensure robust growth. This is the secret of BBG at Kanha.
In alignment with the 2025 World Environment Day theme of “Ending Plastic Pollution,” Forests by Heartfulness (FBH) emphasizes sustainable practices that reduce environmental harm. Our Blue, Black, and Green (BBG) approach not only fosters thriving ecosystems but also minimizes reliance on plastic-based agricultural products. By utilizing natural soil conditioners like biochar, vermicompost, and neem powder, we eliminate the need for synthetic fertilizers often packaged in plastic. This commitment to eco-friendly methods aligns with global efforts to reduce plastic waste and promote a healthier planet.
A tree planted today is a promise for tomorrow. With BBG, we ensure that every tree is nurtured with the right care, the right soil, and the right environment to flourish. The transformation we see at Kanha Shanti Vanam is a testament to this commitment. Join us in this journey of mindful afforestation—because together, we are not just growing trees; we are growing a greener future!
B. Rathinasabapathy is an ecologist with 37 years of experience in forest restoration, biodiversity conservation, and environmental education. He has led ecological projects across India, including the Western Ghats and urban eco-parks. His work focuses on afforestation, biodiversity monitoring, and conserving endangered species, also a recipient of the Jagannatha Rao Endowment Award in 2024, for conservation education.
Dr. Ananthaneni Sreenath, Conservation Scientist at FBH, specializes in rare plant conservation, afforestation, and advanced propagation techniques like tissue culture. He plays a key role in enhancing biodiversity at Kanha Shanti Vanam and other afforestation sites, advancing conservation research despite resource challenges.
A tree planted today is a promise
for tomorrow. With BBG, we ensure that
every tree is nurtured with the
right care, the right soil, and the right
environment to flourish.
B. Rathinasabapathy
B. Rathinasabapathy is an ecologist with 37 years of experience in forest restoration, biodiversity conservation, and environmental education. He has led ecological projects across India, including the Western... Read More
