Straight from Van Gogh – sunflowers at CLSU. Contributed photo
SCIENCE CITY OF MUÑOZ – “Full many a flower is born to blush unseen…”
The poignancy of Thomas Gray’s Elegy finds resonance at the 2nd Gate of the Central Luzon State University here
In full bloom is the Sunflower Garden, alas wanting the eyes of a beholder, locked in the enhanced community quarantine.
Dr. Edgar Orden, CLSU president, said the garden was intended as a special feature for the university’s 113thFounding Anniversary this month.
The garden which he sees now as a reminder to everyone to always find light in the midst of adversity, was readied for viewing of student farmers and other visitors, he said.
John Dave Aquino, project head, said the garden was also established for sunflower seed purification and production, and as sources for sample collection for studies involved in prolonging the vase life of cut sunflower and potential rich source of nectar for the beekeeping industry.
However, these purposes are curtailed due to the unexpected occurrence of Covid-19 where there is a strict implementation of the ECQ.
“Nevertheless, the Sunflower Garden still serves as a technology demonstration area, and as an inspiration and a ray of hope and a brighter future,” said Aquino.
The project was undertaken under the Research, Extension and Training Program through the collaborative efforts of the Research Office and the Small Ruminant Center (SRC) led by Dr. Maria Excelsis Orden and director Neal del Rosario, respectively.
The Research Office provided the technology and resources used while, SRC provided manpower and assistance.
