Horticultural Practices in Pune: Current Trends and the Role of the Indian Knowledge System

Abstract -Horticulture is a vital component of agriculture in Pune, contributing significantly to the economy and food security.With a diverse range of horticultural crops, including fruits, vegetables, flowers, and medicinal plants, Pune has emergedas a hub for commercial and sustainable horticulture. However, modern challenges such as climate change, soildegradation, and water scarcity necessitate innovative solutions. This paper examines the current horticultural practicesin Pune and explores how insights from the Indian Knowledge System (IKS), including Vedic and medieval agriculturalwisdom, can enhance sustainability. Ancient Indian texts such as Vrikshayurveda provide valuable techniques for organicfarming, soil conservation, and efficient water management. Integrating these traditional methods with modern scientificadvancements can offer holistic solutions for improved productivity and environmental sustainability.