Floriculture Today - May 2012 by Media Today Pvt. Ltd.

Editorial

n the onset of summer, the National Capital of Delhi is swathed in a riot of colours. The gardens, avenues, roadsides and traffic roundabouts present a colourful look because a number of flowering shrubs and trees like flame-of-the-forest, silk cotton, Jarul, Barna and Plumerias are all in full bloom, providing a feast to the eyes. As the season advances, there would be gorgeous bunches of crimson and red Gul Mohar and golden-hued Amaltas all along the roadsides. Earlier in the season, for a month till mid-March, a rare treat for the city people was the fabulous Mughal Gardens in Rashtrapati Bhawan, kept open to public view. This is an annual show and the range of flower varieties, manicured lawns and musical fountains are a tribute to the hard work and imagination of the horticulture department of the President’s Estate. Over 120 varieties of roses, hybrid tulips, daisy, dahlia, pansies and bonsai plants were a delight to visitors who thronged the gardens in thousands.

of 1250 bird species in India are slowly vanishing because of the harm done to their habitat. The reasons are many for this sad state of affairs. One of them is the ineffectiveness of the World Life Protection Act. Then, pesticides applied to crops indiscriminately play havoc with bird food. Adding to the problem is pollution of water and air. Many bird sanctuaries, where Siberian cranes come are ill-maintained, leading to shrinkage of water bodies. Let us not forget that birds, flowers and trees are all gifts of nature that not only make life on earth more beautiful but also help preserve biodiversity. They are indeed an index of global environmental health.

This is the time of festival of flowers in many other countries as well. Japan, for instance, was in the grip of cherry blossom fever. Streams and streams of people were flocking to the best spots for viewing cherry blossoms. The national weather office of Japan announced that blooming had officially started on March 31, a few days late because of unusually cold weather during the month. Cherry blossoms herald the start of spring season there, triggering week-long celebrations and parties nation-wide. When cherry trees flaunt their gorgeous blooms, it is festive time for Americans as well. Even as flowers of varied varieties, hues and shapes do give joy to the beholders and floriculture is making progress in many countries, including India, a recent report sounds alarm for something closely associated with flowers, trees, and environment – the birds. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) says more and more birds in India are getting into the ‘critically endangered’ list. Figures show that only a few hundred Great Indian Bustards, found only in Indian sub-content, are left now. Vultures, once so common, are no more a familiar sight. Similarly, the owl population is on the decline. In IUCN’s vanishing category list are the Himalayan quail and the Siberian crane, which used to migrate in large numbers in winter to bird sanctuaries and water bodies in India. For city dwellers, even the common sparrows are becoming a rare sight. These small chirping birds hopping in and out and making nests in the home gardens have always been a delight to watch. Experts say at least 82 Comments are welcome at: MediaTodayMails@gmail.com

Views expressed by individuals and contributors in the magazine are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Floriculture Today editorial board. Floriculture Today does not accept any responsibility of any direct, indirect or consequential damage caused to any party due to views expressed by any one or more persons in the trade. All disputes are to be referred to Delhi Jurisdiction only. .....Editor

Floriculture Today May 2012

Ornamentals

Nympaea alba

Nympaea tetragona

Nympaea mexicana

Nympaea odorata

Nympaea capensis

Nympaea tuberosa

Plate-1: Some of the common species of Nympaea alba

Nymphaea: Queen of aquatic Ornamental plant — B.K.Banerji and Atul Batra Floriculture Section NBRI, Rana Pratap Marg, Lucknow

Description Nymphaea is a genus of aquatic plants belongs to family Nymphaeaceae. The plant grows from vertical, unbranched rhizomes. Some of the common names of Nymphaea are Blue Lotus, Egyptian Lotus, Blue Water Lily, Sacred Narcotic Lily of the Nile. Nymphaea leibergii was first described in 1888 by Thomas Morong (as Castalia leibergii Morong) from collections 10 Floriculture Today May 2012

made by Leiberg from northern Idaho. The site of the type locality (lectotype at New York Botanical Garden) was described by Morong as “small pond in northern Idaho near Granite station, on North Pacific Railway,” June, 1887. It is a water plant with leaves that float on the surface. Water lilies are tropical and are either day blooming or night blooming. Decorative water lilies add beauty to the pool. The shade, formed

by their leaves is very useful for reducing luxuriant growth of algae and provides shelter to fish (Brickell, 1989). Habitat Nymphaea occurs in many habitats, but appears to be rare throughout most of its range (Wiersema 1997). It has been observed growing along undeveloped, shallow shores of lakes and ponds in sand and mud. It is

Ornamentals most often found in slow flowing streams in northern cool, clear waters, mainly at inlets where rivers and streams enter major lakes. It typically grows in water from 0.5-2.5 m in depth that is protected from destructive wave action. It occurs in neutral to acid waters (Moyle 1945, Hellquist 1975). Hellquist, has analyzed the water from the aquatic body where Nymphaea is growing and found that it grows well in waters with an average pH of 7.1 and total alkalinity of 20 mg/l CaCO3. Distribution Nymphaea occurs across North America from southern Quebec west to Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, and eastern British Columbia, south to northern Maine, northern Vermont, Isle Royale, Michigan, northern Minnesota, western Montana, and northern Idaho. It is rare throughout its range, with the greatest number of populations in northern Ontario (Wiersema 1996). In the eastern portion of its range, it is not known from New Brunswick, even though there are sites in northern Maine. The main populations appear to have the greatest concentration of plants in the eastern United States and also have the populations at the closest proximity to each other in eastern North America. The next greatest concentration of populations in the United States appears to be in northern Minnesota, where the plant is listed as Threatened. In western North America, a few populations still exist in northwestern Montana, Alberta, and British Columbia, but none are currently known from Idaho, where the species was originally discovered. Records of N. leibergii from Alaska are in error. The records are based on N. tetragona, not N. leibergii (Wiersema 1996, 1997). Vernacular Names In different regions of our country the description of Nymphaea is available in different regional languages (Table-1). Species of Nymphaea There are about 50 species of Nymphaea, viz. Nymphaea alba, Nymphaea amazonum, Nymphaea ampla, Nymphaea blanda, Nymphaea caerulea, Nymphaea calliantha, Nymphaea candida, Nymphaea capensis, Nymphaea citrina, Nymphaea colorata, Nymphaea elegans, Nymphaea fennica, Nymphaea flavovirens, Nymphaea

gardneriana, Nymphaea gigantea, Nymphaea heudelotii, Nymphaea jamesoniana, Nymphaea leibergii, Nymphaea lotus, Nymphaea lotus var. termalis, Nymphaea macrosperma, Nymphaea mexicana, Nymphaea micrantha, Nymphaea nouchali, Nymphaea odorata, Nymphaea pubescens, Nymphaea rubra, Nymphaea rudgeana, Nymphaea stuhlmannii Classification Hardy water lilies usually bloom during day hours. Flowers are floating. Water lilies are classified into two sub groups, namely, the Robust Martiacea Group and vigorous Ladekeri Group. Robust Martiacea Group: The group originated as a hybrid, probably derived from Nymphaea alba, Nymphaea odorata, Nymphaea tuberose and Nymphaea Mexicana (Table-2) (Plate-1). Less Vigorous Ladekeri Group: The group originated as a hybrid derived from Nymphaea alba and Nymphaea tetragona (Table-2) (Plate-1).Bud initiation takes place in submerged state in early stage of development and later on it comes up above the water surface. Flowers develop just above the water. Leaves are rounded and often mottled leaves are present. Species Biology Nymphaea leibergii is an insectpollinated perennial, propagating exclusively

from seed. When the first day flowers open, the stigma is covered with nectar and is receptive for pollination. By day three, the stamens are producing pollen. Nymphaea leibergii is dependent on seed for propagation. Flowers of Nymphaea leibergii produce large seeds that fall to the substrate near the parent plants. Seedlings are rarely observed at any distance from the parent plant. Sown seeds tend to stay on the same side of the river near the parent plants. The seed usually needs a period of dormancy and will readily germinate in the spring or after a cold treatment. Young seedlings produce thin membranous leaves (Hellquist, personal observation). Nymphaea leibergii produces vertical tubers that rarely produce offshoots. This is in contrast to N. odorata which occasionally produces seeds, but readily produces offshoot tubers from the main horizontal tuber.

Plant Morphology Leaves: Leaves are ovate to elliptic, 3-9 x 2-15 cm, green above, deep purple below, glabrous on the lower surface with 7-13 major veins. Leaves are simple and near blade center (pseudopeltate), long-petiolate, without stipules; petiole cylindric, 500– 1500 mm long (distance of rhizome to water surface), 4–9.5 mm diameter (scaling with blade size), the narrowest at base, tough, flexible, internally with 2 large, central, longitudinal air canals and narrower ones around the periphery, with hard, star-shaped

Table-1: Description of names of Nymphaea in different regional languages S. No.

Languages

Local Name

Assamese

Mokuva, Nai

Bangla

Shaluk, Rakto-kombai

Gujarati

Lalkamal, Nilophal

Hindi

Kanval, Koka, Koi

Kanarese

Nyadule, Huvu Malayalee

Khasi

Soh-lapudng

Marathi

Kamal, Raktakamal

Malayalam

Periaambal, Naerambal

Murdan

Pundi Salukid

10.

Oriya

Dhabdakain, Rangkain

11.

Punjabi Chota Kamal

12.

Tamil

Alli-tamarai, vellambai

13.

Telugu

Allitamara, Tella-kalava Floriculture Today May 2012 11

Ornamentals Table-2: Habitat, Foliage and Floral characters of some of the species of Nymphaea S.No. Name of Species

Habitat

Leaf

Flower

1. Nymphaea alba Aquatic perennial

Rounded, dark green, often red green beneath, 30 cm across, open sinuses.

Cup shaped, later star shaped, white faintly fragrant 20 cm across, day blooming, yellow stamens.

2. Nymphaea tetragona

Aquatic perennial Ovate, dark green, purple blotched, leaves 8 cm across, sinuses open

Cup-shaped, day blooming, slightly fragrant, flowers 2.5-5 cm across, dark pink with yellow stamens

3. Nymphaea mexicana Aquatic perennial

Ovate to round, wavy toothed, leathery, mid-green leaves, 18 cm across with brown mark above, purple beneath, sinuses open, lobes overlapping.

Flowers floating and aerial, cup shaped, day blooming, day blooming, matured flowers star shaped, slightly fragrant, pale to bright yellow, 13 cm across.

4. Nymphaea odorata Aquatic perennial Ovate to round, leathery, glossy, mid-green leaves, 15-30 cm across, sinuses open

Cup-shaped flowers, bloom in day, mature flower star-shaped, white, fragrant, 10-22 cm across, yellow stamens.

5. Nymphaea capensis Aquatic perennial

Day blooming, star-shaped, fragrant, light blue flowers, 21-25 cm across, stamens dark yellow.

Round-toothed, wavy margined, mid-green leaves, 24-50 cm across, slightly overlapping lobes, young leaves are purple spotted beneath.

6. Nymphaea tuberosa Aquatic perennial Round, bright green leaves, 10-40 cm across, sinuses open cells protruding on internal surface of canals; blade (floating) broadly ovate to roundish, 70–280 × 70–210 mm, flat or cupped upward, shiny green on upper surface but with yellowish, circular spot above petiole on young leaf, often rose-tinted on lower surface, deeply lobed at base with lobes slightly overlapping to slightly spreading, shallowly sub entire to wavy horizontally or wavy vertically (if cupped) on red-edged margins, rounded at tip, radially veined typically with 11, 13, or 15 principal veins, if broadly ovate with pinnate laterals from mid vein, veins conspicuous only on lower surface. Inflorescence: Flowers are solitary, axillary, on long stalks, without bracts, glabrous, peduncle typically emergent, internally with 5 large, central, longitudinal air canals and smaller canals around the periphery. Flower: Flowers of Nymphaea are solitary, colourful and fragrant. Flowers bloom for five to seven consecutive days. Flowers are 12 Floriculture Today May 2012

floating, 3-7.5 cm in diameter, bisexual, radial, 60–100 mm across. The flowers open approximately at noon and close by 6 pm for four to six days. Flowers have a slight scent. Sepals The sepals and outermost petals form distinct whorls of 4, elliptic-lanceolate. Color of the sepals are pale yellow and green-tinged and rose-tinged on lower surface, acute and cupped at tip; Petals: Petals are 8-15 in number. Color of the petals is usually white (N. alba), yellow (N. mexicana) or blue (N. caerulea). Filaments are slightly dilated, longer than the anthers. Outer petals attached below ovary, inner petals fused to side of ovary, outer 5 petals elliptic with acute tip, gradually shorter inward. Stamens: Stamens are 50–65 in number, free, helically arranged, attached to upper lateral surface of ovary, bright yellow en masse, decreasing in length toward center, the longest 40 mm long and erect, the

Cup-shaped, day blooming, white, slightly scented, 10-12 cm across, yellow stamens. shortest 10 mm and incurved over stigmas becoming erect before senescence; outer filaments broad and flat, narrowly rhombicelliptic and petal-like, tapered to tip, inner filaments narrower than anther, anthers basifixed, dithecal, linear, 3.5–8 mm long, light yellow, longitudinally and inwardly dehiscent. Pistil: The pistils are 5-12-locular with tapered or slightly cymbiform appendages 0.6-1.5 x 0.8-1.4 mm. Seeds are ovoid, 2-3 X 1.5-2 mm. Ovary: Ovary is partially inferior, spherical to oblong, 5−9 mm diameter, 8–10chambered, each chamber with 6–10 ovules, style absent, bright yellow, stigmatic zones radiating on stigmatic disc below appendages, papillate, light yellow, the disc center depressed with translucent or fleshcolored, ovoid projection 2 mm long. Pollinators of Nymphaea They are pollinated by beetles, small

Ornamentals flies, and sweat-bees that crawl over the surface of the flower. It is believed that the attraction for these pollinating agents is most likely the odor and warmth of the opening flower along with the food value of the stamens. Sculthorpe (1967) indicates that some north-temperate Nymphaeaceae such as N. alba and N. tetragona have a faint odor and may have abandoned cross-pollination. There is no evidence that autogamy, which occurs in some species of Nymphaea, contributes to seed production, as flowering plants in cultivation fail to set seed when pollinators of other flowers are not present (Wiersema 1988). Fruit: Fruits are spongy round berry with lots of edible seeds and many crescent-elliptic scars from abscised petals and stamens, irregularly dehiscent into lanceoloid segments, many-seeded, spongy and subspheroid. Seed: Seeds are arillate, with aril spheric, 5 mm, covered with hair like papillae. Economic Importance Nymphaea bears ornamental flowers

which are highly prized and have great demand in aquatic horticulture. Flowering stalk and unripe fruits of Nymphaea rubra are used as vegetables. The flowering stalk is also used as salad. Flowers are astringent and cardio tonic. It is also one of the important ingredients of stew. Infusion made from flowers and fruits of Nymphaea are diaphoretic and used for treatment of diarrhea. The rhizome and seeds of Nymphaea are eaten in times of scarcity. Rhizomes are either boiled or baked before eating. Rhizomes are a rich source of starch. It also contains crude fibre (10%), crude protein (6.4%), ash (10.8%) and Nymphacine, an alkaloid. The alcoholic extract of rhizomes has a mild sedative and spasmolytic action due to the presence of Nymphacine. Rhizomes of Nymphaea are reported to have been used for tanning purposes. The decoction of the fresh rhizomes is given in diarrhea. Rhizomes are considered as a demulcent and used for dysentery and dyspepsia. The powered rhizome is given in dyspepsia, diarrhea and piles. An infusion of rhizomes and stem is diuretic. It is also used for diseases of the urinary tract.

Seeds of Nymphaea contain starch (47%) and fatty oil. Seeds are free from alkaloids. All parts of the plant except the seed contain an alkaloid, i.e., Nymphacine. It is toxic to frogs and produces tetanus like symptoms. Seeds can be eaten raw or after parching. Seeds may also be ground in to flour. A special kind of bread is made from this flour and along with water cooked in to kanji. Excess consumption produced toxic effect. Leaves of the plant contain flavones glucoside myricitine (Anonymous, 1966). Uses The American Indians made flour out of dried roots by pounding them. The flour was then baked into pancakes. The young leaves and flower buds were eaten as vegetables, seeds eaten fried. American Indians used the plant to treat many ailments. Mashed green roots were used as poultice for swollen limbs; the roots for problems of the womb, digestive problems, a rinse for mouth sores; leaves and flowers as cooling compresses. n E-mail:banerjibk@yahoo.co.in

Floriculture Today May 2012 13

14 Floriculture Today May 2012

Floriculture Today May 2012 15

State Focus

Punjab: Growing popularity of horticulture among farmers Horti Dept sets up eye-catching pavilion at Horti Expo 2012

— Anwar Huda

The pavilion of the Department of Horticulture of Punjab had attractive varieties of fruits, vegetables and processed food products on display, showcasing how farmers are reaping the benefits of Horticulture Mission’s various programmes. Among the items at Punjab pavilion attracting visitors’ attention were cherry tomatoes, looking specially small as they were kept near bigger fruits of the same family

he Department of Horticulture of Punjab, currently headed by Dr Lajvinder Singh Brar, put up an eyecatching pavilion at the 4th Horti Expo, which was concurrently held with 7th International Flora Expo in New Delhi in March, 2012. Since, the exhibition also had the newly added India Potato Expo, the Department brilliantly showcased its USP--different varieties of potatoes, as the state is no. 1 in the production of potato in the country. The event was inaugurated by the Chief Minister of Delhi Ms Sheila Dikshit, and Ambassador of the Netherlands Bob Hiensch. The farmer-friendly Department made a tremendous effort to showcase its pavilion and brought experts to guide and inform the visitors. The three-day exhibition drew over 15,000 visitors, who loved to spend hours going round the aesthetically pleasing pavilions and getting vital inputs. Participant Indian states were represented mainly by their horticulture and environment departments. Flowers, fruits vegetables and horticulture products from various states presented a grand spectacle, emphasizing the growing popularity of horticulture among the farmers. The pavilion of the Department of Horticulture of Punjab had attractive varieties of fruits, vegetables and processed food products on display, showcasing how farmers are reaping the benefits of Horticulture Mission’s various programmes. Among

16 Floriculture Today May 2012

Dr. Radha Singh, Former Secretary, Union Ministry of Agriculture with then Principal Secretary, Agriculture (UP) & Former MD, NHB Dr. J N Chamber (C) appreciating the varieties of Horticulture Produce at the Department of Horticulture of Punjab Pavilion at Horti Expo 2012, New Delhi. Dr. L S Brar, Director of The Department (Next to Mr. Chamber) looks on.

the items at Punjab pavilion attracting visitors’ attention were cherry tomatoes, looking specially small as they were kept near bigger fruits of the same family. The Department’s officials distributed to interested visitors, specially farmers, promotional materials giving elaborate information on how to grow vegetables like potato, tomato, brinjal, ladies’ finger, cabbage, cauliflower, guavas and kinnows. These promotional materials also carried details like types of soil needed, water requirements, time of sowing and harvesting and application of nutrients. Guides were seen eagerly responding to the queries of curious visitors and enjoying each moment of the time to enlighten them about the activities, innovations, ideas, and schemes of the Department. Overall, it was a grand show by the Department. Visitors to the expo series said in one voice that the Department of Horticulture of Punjab has been growing from strength to strength every year, ably serving the cause of horticulture development in the state, and thus creating high potential to augment income and employment. The Department’s farmer-friendly activities The Department of Horticulture of Punjab not only takes

State Focus

Dr. Radha Singh signing into the department register while Dr. L S Brar (Centre) & Horti Expo organiser, M B Naqvi (in specs) look on.

Dr. L S Brar and department officials gifting a memento to Sanjeev Chopra (2nd from left), Joint Secretary, Union Ministry of Agriculture and his wife

part in various exhibitions and conferences but also organizes its own, time and again, in association with agricultural universities and departments related to agriculture. These seminars and exhibitions are of extreme use for the horticulture sector in the state, often referred as the Food Bowl of India. The list of its activities also includes seed production and distribution, fruit processing, providing technical know-how to the farmers, holding training camps and workshops, farm visits by the experts, organizing fruit and flower shows and competitions.

scientists by utilising their expertise and the latest technologies designed by them. Head of the Department of Vegetable Crops Dr P S Brar spoke on the various recommendations made by PAU. Technical lectures on cultivation of vegetables, especially capsicum, tomato and brinjal, were delivered by various scientists.

Seminar on Protected Cultivation of Vegetables Recently, it held field day-cum-seminar on ‘Protected Cultivation of Vegetables’ in association with the Department of Vegetable Crops of Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) and Agro Help Aid Societies of Mushkabad and Sahauli. More than 650 farmers from all over Punjab participated in the programme, supported by the National Horticulture Mission (NHM). The Department’s Director Dr L S Brar, who was the chief guest on the occasion, said that special emphasis is being laid on poly-houses, subsidised inputs and vegetable hubs. He apprised the farmers of various schemes being implemented by the Horticulture Department for the promotion of vegetable cultivation in the state. Dr Brar also informed that the Department is encouraging vegetable cultivation by holding such seminars and field days. He released a booklet ‘Sabjian di surakhiat kheti’, which covers all aspects of vegetable cultivation under low tunnels, net-houses and large poly-houses. In his presidential remarks, PAU Director of Research Dr S S Gosal highlighted the research work undertaken by the Vegetable Department in the field of protected cultivation. Better quality and income enhancement are the focus areas of the protected cultivation of vegetables, he said, and advised farmers to reap the benefits of PAU’s new recommendations. PAU Director of Extension Education Dr M S Gill lauded the progressive nature of Punjab’s farmers and exhorted the participants to strengthen their linkages with university

Department’s latest schemes The list of the latest farmer-friendly schemes initiated by the Department includes development of horticulture including sericulture in the state, demonstration-cum-fruit preservation labs and Community canning centres, Setting up of information and training centres at zonal level, improvement of quality of grapes of perlette variety, demonstration of thrust points in fruits and vegetable crops, increasing the productivity of citrus fruits by controlling the phytophthora disease caused by fungus, and production of hybrid and other high yielding vegetables. The development of horticulture and sericulture is the main development scheme of the Department for the maintenance of seed farms and fruit nurseries. The main objective of the scheme is to bring an additional area under fruits, vegetables and flower crops. For this purpose, the department is maintaining 28 progeny garden nurseries and 11 vegetable seed farms under this scheme. To popularize the mushroom cultivation, the department has set up 4 mushroom spawn production labs to encourage the farmers for adopting the cultivation of mushroom in the State. Sericulture development Sericulture (production of raw silk) is the other occupation of the land less families which is practiced in the kandi districts of Gusdaspur, Hoshiarpur and Ropar. These families earn their livelihood by producing and selling their cocoons nearly 25000 –30000 Kg per annum. Some budget is proposed for R&D work for the Punjab Agriculture University Ludhiana to find out better races of the silk worms. n Floriculture Today May 2012 17

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Event

15th National Flora Expo, Nepal

National Floriculture Policy on anvil: Nepal Govt

epal Government is in the process of evolving a policy to give impetus to floriculture. This was announced by Secretary in Nepal’s Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives Nathu Prasad Chaudhari at the inaugural function of Nepal’s 15th National Flora Expo and Trade Fair at Bhrikutimandap, in Khatmandu. The expo was inaugurated by Vice-Presdent Parmanand Jha. Saying that the policy for floriculture development is on the anvil, Chaudhari said the government hoped that the policy would be introduced soon. He added the ministry is ready to join hands with the private sector entrepreneurs and provide them with additional facilities to develop the floriculture business. “This sector can not only generate more jobs but also help earn foreign exchange,” he said. The expo was organized by Floriculture Association of Nepal (FAN) to promote floriculture and create awareness in the country about the use of flowers. Chaudhary called for developing the floriculture sector under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) model for increasing its productivity and making the country self-reliant in flowers. Vice-President Parmananda Jha in his inaugural address stressed the need for collective efforts of the government and entrepreneurs to give a boost to the floriculture industry in the country. Shedding light on the prospects of developing floriculture, he urged entrepreneurs to increase production of flowers as per the need of the country. “Because of a shortage of flowers, the country imports a lot of flowers from India and other countries during festivals,” he said. He further said that Nepal would make foreign currencies if the country could export flowers by boosting the sector. He also lauded the entrepreneurs involved in the floriculture business for their efforts to promote the sector. Arun Chhetri, president of FAN, asked the government to introduce a floriculture policy as soon as possible for a rapid development of the sector. “We have urged the government to come up with a proper policy on floriculture for a couple of years. But such a policy has yet to be in place,” he said. Highlighting the objective of the event, he said that it has aimed to promote the floriculture business and raise public awareness about the uses of flowers and ornamental plants among the people. Domestic production meets about 85 per cent

of the total international demand, he said. The country’s floriculture transactions increased to Rs. 900 million this year. The country exported flowers worth about Rs. Rs. 190 million during the same period, he said. He asked the government to provide subsidies in chemical fertilizers for the development of the floriculture sector. According to him, this sector has failed to attract investments at par with the growth in demand due to the lack of the government’s support. The floriculture sector has employed more than 40,000 people directly and indirectly. There are a total of 634 floriculture farms across the country, he said. Exhibition Attraction The fair showcased seasonal flowers, ornamental plants, compost fertilisers, important tools and decorative materials for gardening and various other products related to the floriculture industry. It had 60 stalls in total from which 53 stalls showcased floriculture products, 5 stalls provided industry related information, and the remaining organised competitions to select the best flowers. Cvmbidium Orchid, as envisageg by National Policy (OVOP Program), was also demonstrated. Participants The list of local participants included Crop Pro-Tech, Himalayan Flora Enterprises, TTR Bagalamukhi Nursery, Swoyambhu Garden Nursery, Floriculture Cooperative, Jai Kishan Nursery and Sreejana Flower Nursery. The list of Indian participants included Sikkim Flora Farm, Agriplast Tech India, Floriculture Development Centre, Media Today Group Publisher of Floriculture Today magazine and Silpoulin Plastic. Awards The Best Seasonal Flower Award was given to Arun Nursery (Koteswor, Kathmandu). Samjhana Nursery (Sanepa, Lalitpur) got the Best Ornamental Plants Award while the Best Flowering Plants Award went to The Standard Nursery (Basbari, Kathmandu). Cycus Nursery (Ranibari, Lajimpat, KTM) got the Best Landscape Award and Mahalaxmi Flowers shop (Tripreswor) won the Best Flower Arrangement Award. The Best Stall Award went to Ajima Nursery (Kuleswor, Kathmandu). Shree Yog Nursery (Dharan Sunsary) got Appreciation Letter. Floriculture Today May 2012 19

Cut Flower

Hypericum Berries for Exploitation as Cut Flower by B. Senthamizh Selvi, J. Suresh, J. Rajangam and R. Muthuselvi Horticultural Research Station, Kodaikanal

H Red Hypericum Berries

Hypericum hookerianum

Hypericum perforatum

Hot pink Hypericum

20 Floriculture Today May 2012

ypericum, more commonly known as St. John’s Wort, is an interesting genus that harbours around 400 species of flowering plants which comes in many forms from small annual or perennial herbaceous plants ranging from 510 cm in height to berry like shrubs and even small trees that can grow up to 12 meters tall. Hypericum of the family Clusiaceae has its origin in Western Asia and has a worldwide distribution in alpine, temperate and sub- tropical regions. Common names of Hypericum flower include St. John’s wort, Hypericum, Goat Weed, Hypericum, Tipton Weed, Coffee Berry, Hypericum Berries and some varieties are known as Tutsan, derived from the French words ‘tout” (meaning all) and “sain” (meaning healthy). While, the crusaders of Middle ages used different parts of the plant for healing (depression/mental illness), the ancient Greeks believed that Hypericum dispelled evil spirits. People hung bunch of Hypericum in their homes, where it released a fragrance like incense as it dried. Although, not specifically fragrant today’s Hypericum retain their power to drive out evil spirit with their cheerful and colourful long lasting beauty. Hypericum perforatum is one of the most common species of hypericum that is medically used for the treatment of depressions. Hypericum species viz., Hypericm hoookerianum, Hypericum

mysooriens are native of plants of Western Ghats and are found largely in Kodaikanal regions. Hypericum works well as borders for shrubs or perennial flower beds as it is a woody perennial that bears yellow star flowers followed by attractive berries. They are well suited for rock gardens too. Very few species of hypericum has found its way in flower shops and wedding halls as popular cut flowers, wherein the hypericum berries look like a fruitful cluster of juicy berries atop green leaves. And now, Hypericum is the most successful berry bearing cut flower till date. From just a few acres of production in the 1980’s, hypericum is now ranked at number fifteen in sales through the Dutch auctions. It is reported that, with the introduction of new colours and varieties hypericum has consolidated its place in the market to the extent that at some point it may even eclipse alstromeria in total production area around the world. As a popular cut flower grown across the globe, hypericum berries create a festive, lively look for many occasions. The smooth, shiny berries provide textural contrast to the satiny petals of many flowers creating strong visual interest. The two main species of Hypericum grown for their ornamental use are Hypericum androsaemum, with round red berries and Hypericum x inodorum with

Hypericum berries grown in Western Ghats

Light pink Hypericum berries

Cut Flower

elliptical orange berries. The two species are closely related and today’s hybrids cover a range of intermediate shapes. Some hypericums are used for their colourful berries while others are used for their beautiful foliage. Berried varieties are considered as a medium filler flower and are available in many colours. Breeding has expanded the colour range from the classic rusty reds to the newer pink, peach, green, gold, red, white, Burgundy and even salmon and cream coloured varieties. Hypericum berries perform very well in warm and more humid climatic conditions. It prefers a well drained clay loam to sandy loam soils with the soil pH ranging from 5.5 – 5.8. Hypericum berries love a temperature range of 250 C to 280 C during the day and 120 C– 150 C during night. Hypericum berries grown in open conditions may require 18 per cent shading net in winter and 30-40 per cent shading net during summer months to protect the berries and foliage from turning black. However, plenty of sunlight is required to have plenty of berries just one month before harvesting Hypericums can be easily multiplied through cuttings, through divisions and even through seeds. The best time of planting hypericum is during the months of MayJune. When grown in open, the ideal plant population to be maintained is 20 – 24 plants per sq. m. Sufficient watering should be given once in a week until establishment and thereafter on irrigation is given based on the requirement of the crop. Blooming starts from four months after planting and continues to give two flowering flushes in a year. Pinching is an important operation in hypericum, which is done one month after planting to maintain 7-10 internodes from the base of the plant and thereby

Hypericum is the most successful berry bearing cut flower till date. From just a few acres of production in the 1980’s, hypericum is now ranked at number fifteen in sales through the Dutch auctions. It is reported that, with the introduction of new colours and varieties hypericum has consolidated its place in the market to the extent that at some point it may even eclipse alstromeria in total production area around the world

Ivy green hypericum

Hypericum androsaemum

allowing side shoots from the internodes. In established plants, it is essential to prune the shoots that have bloomed. The entire shrub can be cut back to 1-2 inch of the ground as the shrub is capable of growing back quickly with more number of blooming stems Harvesting can be done when the berries are fully developed with bright colours. The minimum requirement of ripeness varies between the species. For H. inodorum, a minimum of 95 per cent of the branches in a batch must have fully developed berries with ample colour. The branches must not have any flowers. Whereas, for H. androsaemum, a minimum of 95 per cent of the batch must consists of branches of which at least two – thirds of the inflorescence comprises well – coloured berries, and of which one-third may flower. Hypericum berries for trade are graded according to length, ripeness and concentration of berries. H. inodorum is generally packed in bunches of 10 stems but not bundled and supplied in containers in quantities of 40, 60, 80 or 100 stems. H. androsaemum are packed in bunches of 5 stems, in bundles of 5 bunches (of 25 stems) and supplied in containers in quantities of 25, 50 or 75 stems. The vase life of hypericum berries lasts to about 7-14 days.

Floriculture Today May 2012 21

Garden Climbers

Garden Climbers provide

Beauty and Fragrance by N. Deepa Devi and A. Shanthi

limbers are important group of plants which add beauty, colour and fragrance in gardens. Artificial structures like walls, arches, pergola, pillars, cascades, topiary can be beautifully decorated with the help of climbers. Trees are also used to train the climbers and this enhances the beauty of gardens manifold. Generally the important ornamental climbers add beauty to many places like houses, public places, institution and garden. In cities their utility is enhanced for the purpose of screening the premises from adjacent houses and maintaining privacy. Bare walls can be most effectively decorated by growing colourful climbers on it. Fences and trellis also provide scope for the beautiful climbers to grow and display. The climbers have different modified organs which help in climbing of the support. They are tendril, thorns, roots and rootlets and by secreting substances from growing points. Examples for modified organs Tendrils : Antigonon leptopus, Bignonia gracilis and Pyrostegia venusta Thorns : Bougainvillea sp. and Climbing Rose Roots and Rootlets : Campsis grandiflora and Ficus repens Suitable climbers for planting in different situation in garden Gardens have different situations like sunny, partial shade and different structures. The climbers should be selected according to these factors. 1. Climbers in sunny situation (e.g.) Pyrostegia venusta, Quisqualis indica, Antigonon leptopus, Adenocalymma alliaceum, Bougainvillea sp, Campsis grandiflora etc. 2.

Flowering climbers in Partial shade (e.g.) Clerodendron splendens, Petrea volubils, Lonicera japonica, Trachalospermum jasminoides. Heavy climbers are usually grown in pergola. They are produce luxuriant vegetative growth and grow very vigorously. They cover large area and rare suitable for covering bigger area. (e.g.) Antigonon leptopus, Bignonia magnifica, Beaumontia grandifolra, Bougainvillea sp, Hiptage benghalensis, Quisqualis indica, Wisteria sinensis, Pyrostegia venusta, Clerodendron splendens. Light climber makes sparse vegetative growth and remains light in spread. These climbers are suitable for limited spaces. Climbers for low walls or trellis, for this purpose only light climbers are selected (e.g.) Lonicera japonica, Trachelospermum

22 Floriculture Today May 2012

jasmenoides, Clitoria ternatea, Solanum seaforthianum, Tristellatia australis, Tecoma jasminoides, Jacquemontia violacea. 5.

Climbers for fragrant flowers (e.g.) Jasminum grandiflorum, Jasminum officinale, Trachelospermum jasmenoides, Hiptage benghalensis, Clematis panniculata.

Climbers for pots (e.g.) Tristellatia asutralis, Adenocalymma allicea, Clitoira ternatea, Bignonia purpurea etc.

Climbers for porches (e.g.) Pyrostegia venusta, Petrea volubilis, Clerodendron splendens, Bougainvillea, Jasminum sp. etc.

Foliage climbers (e.g.) Scindapsus aureus, Philodendron sp., Monstera deliciosa

Making hedge (e.g) Clerodendron inerme and Bougainvillea sp,

10. Climbers for indoor decoration (e.g.) Pothos, Monstera deliciosa, Philodendron sp., Asparagus sp., etc. 11. Climbers for screening (e.g.) Antigonon leptopus, Passiflora, Ipomea, Clerodendron splendens, Thunbergia etc., 12. Annual climbers are seasonal in nature and can be grown temporarily (e.g.) Sweet pea, Trailing nasturtium and Ipomea lobata Soil Climbers thrive well in any garden soil. The soil should be fertile, deep and good in water holding capacity. Loamy soil with good drainage suits well to most of the climbers. Planting The climbers can be grown successfully in the beds, pods and pits. Proper support should be provided at the time of planting. Watering and weeding After planting the climbers need regular watering and weeding. Season The main planting season for evergreen climber is July – September and February – March, where as deciduous climbers

Garden Climbers are planted during February – early March. Gap Filling In case of any mortality noticed, gap filling should be done. Fertilizer application Manuring encourages growth and flowering of climbers. 50 g bone meal accompanied with 10 g urea per plant should be followed by watering. Training General training in first year is necessary to have the desired effect depending on the kind and shape of support. Pruning During second year, pruning of these climbers is essential to keep them in limit and desired shape. General pruning consists of removal of dead wood and excessive growth. Heavy climbers need drastic pruning whereas light climbers require light pruning. Impotant climbers suitable for landscaping Common Name: Garlic Vine Botanical Name: Adenocalymma alliaceum Family: Bignoniaceae Situation: It is highly suitable for planting against wall, arches, pergola etc.

Common Name: Coral Vine or Loves Chain Botanical Name: Antigonon leptopus Family: Polygonaceae Situation: It is highly suiable for arces and pergola

Common Name: Duck Flower Botanical Name: Aristolochia grandiflora Family: Aristolochiaceae Situation: It is ideally suited for trellis, screen against wall, percola etc. Common Name: Camel’s foot climber or Bauhinia climber or Maloo Creeper Botanical Name: Bauhinia Vahlii Family: Leguminosae Situation: It is useful for bigger parks and can be trained on trees or large stumps

Floriculture Today May 2012 23

Garden Climbers Common Name: Nepal Trumpet Creeper Botanical Name: Beaumontia grandiflora Family: Apocynaceae Situation: It is highly suitable for arches, pergola and cover large area. Common Name: Purple Funnel Vine Botanical Name: Bignonia magnifica Family: Bignoniaceae Situation: Suitable for planting against wall and arches. Common Name: Cats Claw Climber Botanical Name: Bignonia gracilis Family: Bignoniaceae Situation: Suitable for planting against high wall and arches. Common Name: Bougainvillea Botanical Name: Bougainvillea sp. Family: Nyctainaceae Situation: Suitable for planting in arches. Common Name: Trumpet Climber Botanical Name: Campsis grandiflora Family: Bignoniaceae Situation: It is highly suitable for training against wall, arches and pergola etc.

Common Name: Virgin Bower Botanical Name: Clematis panniculata Family: Ranunculaceae Situation: It is ideally suitable for trellis

Common Name: Flaming Glorybower, Clerodendron Botanical Name: Clerodendron splendens Family: Verbenaceae Situation: It is highly suitable for making semi – shady situation

24 Floriculture Today May 2012

Common Name: Butter fly pea creeper Botanical Name: Clitoria ternatea Family: Leguminosae Situation: It is ideally suitable for training against the trees. Common Name: Indian Ivy Botanical Name: Ficus repens Family: Moraceae Situation: It is highly suitable for training against wall.

Common Name: Madhvi Lata Botanical Name: Hiptage benghalensis Family: Malpighiaceae Situation: It is ideally suitable for pergola

Common Name: Railway Creeper Botanical Name: Ipomea cairica Family: Convolvulaceae Situation: It is highly suitable for garden on boundaries covering large areas as ground cover.

Common Name: Chameli Botanical Name: Jasminum grandiflorum Family: Oleaceae Situation: It is highly suitable for planting on trellis, against wall and near stinky places. Common Name: Spanish Jasmine Botanical Name: Jasminum officinale Family: Oleaceae Situation: It is suitable for training against wall, trellis, over trees etc.

Common Name: Pili Chameli Botanical Name: Jasminum humile Family: Oleaceae Situation: It is ideally suitable for training against wall and trellis.

Garden Climbers Common Name: Japanese Honey Suckle Botanical Name: Lonicera japonica Family: Caprifoliaceae Situation: It is good for trellis Common Name: Phoolghari Botanical Name: Passiflora laurifolia Family: Passifloraceae Situation: It grows luxuriantly and is a heavy climber.

Common Name: Rangoon Creeper Botanical Name : Quisqualis indica Family: Combretaceae Situation: It is ideally suitable for training against walls, pergola and trees.

Common Name: Purple Wreath Botanical Name: Petrea volubilis Family: Verbenaceae Situation: It is highly suitable for training against walls or to be planted in shrubbery

Common Name: Sky Flower Botanical Name: Thunbergia grandiflora Family: Acanthaceae Situation: It is suitable for trellis, pergola, trees etc.

Common Name: Golden Shower Botanical Name: Pyrostegia venusta Family: Bignoniaceae Situation: It is highly suitable for training against buildings, houses, compound etc.

Common Name: Star Jasmine Botanical Name : Trachelospermum jasminoides Family: Apocynaceae Situation: It prefers partial shade

Common Name: Bridal bouquet Botanical Name: Porana panniculata Family: Convolulaceae Situation: It is ideally suitable for training against walls, pergola and trellis. Common Name: Blue Potato Creepet Botanical Name: Solanum Seaforthianum Family: Solanaceae Situation: It is ideally suitable for planting against walls.

Common Name: Curtain Creeper or Vernonia Creeper Botanical Name: Vernonia elaegnifolia Family: Compositaceae Situation: It is most ideally suitable for creating weeping effect on porches, balcony, and boundary wall, against pillars, walls and for screening purpose. Common Name: Grape Flower Vine Botanical Name: Wisteria sinensis Family: Leguminoseae Situation: It is highly suitable for pergola, trellis or trees. n (Authors are N. Deepa Devi (Ph.D Scholar, Department of Horticulture, AC & RI, TNAU, Madurai) and A. Shanthi (Associate Professor, Department of Horticulture, P. J. N. Agricultural College & Research Institute, Karaikal)

Floriculture Today May 2012 25

26 Floriculture Today May 2012

Floriculture Today May 2012 27

Flower Diseases

Spider Mite — Robert de Bos Bangalore Plants First Pvt. Ltd.

here are more than thousand species of mites. The twospotted mite (TSM), Tetranychus urticae (Koch), family Tetranychidae, is most occurring in our green house crops and one of the phytophagous or plant feeding species. The TSM is more closely related to spiders than to insects. They are most active and reproductive in warm weather and low humidity; the opposite conditions slow them down; they hate water. Their medium of quick transport is air currents. The TSM is omnipresent and frequent, has four life stages; egg, larva, nymph, and adult. After an incubation period of 3 days by 25-300C to 9 days by 10-150C, the eggs hatch. The new spider may develop to sexual maturity in 5 to 10 days, depending on temperature. The following provides an overview of TSM life stages: Egg - The spherical, shiny straw-colored eggs are very small. Webbing produced by the TSM, makes the eggs difficult to see. Larva - The six-legged, colorless, larva resembles the body form of the nymph and adult. It is slightly larger than an egg. During the larval stage, little food is consumed. Nymph - The eight-legged nymph looks like an adult, but is smaller and not sexually mature. It goes through 2 nymphal stages, protonymph and deuto- nymph, before becoming an adult. Adult - The adult female has a round abdomen, is eight-legged and less than 1mm. The also eight-legged male has a conical abdomen is slightly smaller. The color varies from pale yellow to green to orange to brown. When viewed from above, they appear to have 2 pigmented spots, which are actually contents of the gut showing through the body wall. A female TSM will lay from 50 to 100 eggs during her lifetime. Unfertilized eggs develop into males, fertilized eggs into females. The sex ratio can vary considerably, but is usually female-biased. Initial occurrence, if taken care of quickly, is easily controlled, but once spider mites are spread in the crop, it is difficult to eradicate this pest. They cannot be controlled by simple chemical sprays. There is a range of products in the market, but none of them are 100% effective, especially not in the long term. Resistance may build up in a few years or even with repeated sprays. The mites hide in the crop, in and under the leaves and often go into material such as crop support and green house structure, especially wood and in the soil. When cold they are immobile and hidden, while warm they move around. When plants are being sprayed, the mites go into hiding, protecting themselves. 28 Floriculture Today May 2012

Eggs, Larvae, nymphs, and adults

With this knowledge we are able to make a strategic ‘war-plan’. One has to be aware of the fact that the precise implementation of any action and the sequence of actions is the basis to success, not just the choice of product or concentration. The first and most cost effective step is avoiding the pest to spread in the green house. This means scouting (searching) the crop several times a week, especially in the period between the end of the winter (February) till monsoon. Since they spread through the green house with air currents, drafts and wind in the green house should be strictly avoided. As soon as some infestation in a certain area is noticed take action by spraying that specific area and checking the effect. Repeat sprays at weekly intervals till the crop is clean. You have to identify the ‘weak spots’ in the greenhouse; first occurrence is often in the same location. Keep a special eye on these places. If the population is already spread and high, i.e. the crop is infested, the best is to wash the plants in order to get the spiders on the soil. Do this when the temperatures are up (250C+). Use good pressure, with little water (1/2 ltr per m2 crop). Using a motorsprayer at low pressure (10 – 15 bar) and the nozzle on medium beam (30º angle), is a good weapon. Within one hour after washing the plants, the soil is sprayed with a (agricultural, hence cheap) miticide as dicofol, tetradifon, propagita. Although these product cause phytotoxicity, we do not care since the plants are not sprayed but the soil, where the spiders have been washed down. If we do not do this in time, the spiders start climbing up in the plants again.

FLOWER DISEASES The first and most cost effective step is avoiding the pest to spread in the green house. This means scouting (searching) the crop several times a week, especially in the period between the end of the winter (February) till monsoon. Since they spread through the green house with air currents, drafts and wind in the green house should be strictly avoided Straight after this action we prepare to spray the plants. Spraying has to be done precisely, that is to say, each and every part of the plant has to be covered with the liquid. This consists in using sufficient liquid and also seeing to it that it reaches also under the leaves, all sides and the lower parts of the plants. Be aware that for this the position of the spray gun has to be changed continuously, nozzle horizontal / vertical, up and down. The plants have to be sprayed from both sides, because of the shadow effect when spraying from one side. Sufficient liquid, is about 1/3 to 1/2 a liter per square meter of gross green house area, hence 5,000 m2 green house requires about 1,700 to 2,500 liter of spray liquid. This depends on crop development. It is strongly recommended that the spraying is overseen by a responsible person in the organization. The one who sprays is not able to check his work on the spot. Many of the products have a certain degree of phytotoxicity and hence a negative effect on the plants. Growth stagnation is the least negative that can be expected. If this is combined with adverse conditions like strong sun radiation or low air humidity the effect will be aggravated and scorching of leaves and flower buds may take place. The lower the concentration, the lower the phytotoxicity. However, if the concentration is too low, the spray may not be effective. Many spiders survive then and the spray has to be repeated. This is more harmful and more costly. Follow the indications on the

labels of the chemical packing and gain your own experience. Have also a good look at the expiry date of the product. Do two effective sprays with the same product, before changing to another product from another group. 24 hours after every treatment go out in the crop and see how effective the spray has been. If the population is reduced by less than 75%, then the spray has to be repeated immediately. Remember that each spray has to be analyzed and shall be effective for 90%. Bear in mind that certain products produce results over a period of time, hence know the product (e.g. ovicides, growth regulators, biological products) Thereafter the pest is checked on a daily basis. This consists of seeing the number of spiders in general in the crop and also the areas where the infestation is more. The second phase of the strategic ‘war fare’ has to do with the reproduction cycle as mentioned above. After eliminating the adults and maybe other development stages, often the eggs are left untouched. These eggs will produce the next generation within a number of days (6 to 9 days), depending on the temperature. Then a next spray has to be given. If this spray is effective the cycle is broken and the pest is under control. It is important to know which stages the product affect, eggs, larvae, nymph and/or adult. A spray with an ovicide a day after using a product against the motile stages (nymph, larva, adult), may give a more complete control. After each treatment there will be survivors, preparing for the next attack. Hence keep a strict eye on them and spray whenever a population builds up in certain areas. The latest trend in pest control is to counteract the pests with their natural enemies. This offers a good future for growers who are willing to learn and follow the procedures. There are also a good number of biological products on the market, but often information is lacking to use the products appropriately. The way the product acts on the spider mites, which chemical products can be used simultaneously and other aspects are required for effective use. 

Some products on the market for the different stages of the pest Stage

Chemical

Product Examples

Product Group

Rate ml/gr

For soil (due to phytotoxicity)

Dicofol

Kelthane

Diphenyl

2 / ltr

For soil (due to phytotoxicity)

Tetradifon

Tedion

Diphenyl

1.5 / ltr

For soil (due to phytotoxicity)

Propargita

Omite

Sulﬁte ester

1.5 / ltr

All stages

Bifenazate

Floramite

Carbazate

0.5 / ltr

All stages

spiromesifen

Oberon/ Envidor/ Forbid

Tetronic acid

1 / ltr

Ovicide

Hexythiazox

Nissorun/ Maiden

thiazolidionone

1.5 / ltr

larvae, nymph and adult

Abemectine

Vertimec, Dynamite

Carbazate

0.6 / ltr

larvae, nymph and adult

fenazaquin / quinazoline

Magister/ Matador / Pride

Lambda-cyhalothrin

1.2 / ltr

Systemic

Imidacloprid

Conﬁdor

cloronicotinyl

0.4 / ltr

Systemic

Parathion

Metacid

1.5 / ltr

Repellant

Neem

Neem Oil

1-2 / ltr

Repellant

Sulphur

1.5 / ltr FLORICULTURE TODAY May 2012 29

Flower Diseases

Physiological disorders which hamper cutflower production — M. Kannan, M. Jawaharlal and P. Ranchana Department of Floriculture & Landscaping, HC & RI, TNAU, Coimbatore

physiological disorder is defined as the abnormalities or abnormal growth that occurs in the plant organs caused due to improper physiological functioning of the plant. These disorders in cut flowers are mainly due to sudden drift in the environmental factors, change in the fertilizer pattern, quality of irrigation water, pest infestation, misuse of chemicals such as herbicides, growth regulators, pesticides, etc. These factors often interact or interplay in producing an effect. It is a non- infectious disorder and some are easy to diagnose while others are difficult or even impossible to diagnose. Identifying the causes of non infectious disorders is a challenge to the cut flower growers. Some non- infectious disorders are beyond help once symptoms are visible. Nevertheless, it is extremely important to reach the right diagnosis in order to avoid the problem in future. These disorders are important for the cut flower growers to know thatv Disorders are often caused by lack or excess of something that supports life. Lack or excess of micronutrients or by the presence of something that interferes with life (e.g. pollutants). v Disorders occur in the absence of pathogens and cannot be transmitted to healthy plants. v The symptoms vary in kind and severity depending on how much of the casual factor deviates from its norm. Some important disorders that hampers cut flower production are discussed are given below. 30 Floriculture Today May 2012

CARNATION 1. Calyx splitting Sepals beneath the flower are unable to form a cylindrical calyx tube which supports the base of the petals. As the bud opens and size of the petals increases, calyx may split down either half or completely because it is unable to contain the load of extra petals. Causes v Boron deficiency v Irregular or fluctuating temperature during flowering v Low night temperature below 100C causes an extra growth inside the calyx.

2. Calyx tip dieback Browning begins at the calyx tip and progresses downwards until much of the calyx is damaged. Causes v Water stress and potassium deficiency Control measures: v Application of KCl @ 5 g/l (two sprays at 10 days interval) v

Control measures: v Selection of resistant varieties- Espana, Cabaret, Red Corsa v Regulation of temperature- day t e m p e r a t u r e ( 2 0 - 2 5 0C ) , n i g h t temperature (12.5-15.50C)

Application of nitrogen @ 25-40 ppm and boron @ 20-25 ppm

Provide adequate irrigation @ 4.5litre/m2

3. Tip Burn Young leaves do not open evenly and the leaves at the tip curls followed by drying. Causes v Calcium deficiency Control measure: v Application of Calcium nitrate @ 5 g/l (10 days interval)

Carnation- calyx splitting

Carnation- Tip burn

Flower Diseases 4. Sleepiness A disorder in carnation, it is caused by exposure of the flowers to ethylene gas or water stress. The extent of this disorder is much higher when flowers are stored for long periods or when they are kept at high temperature.

increasing the temperature to optimum level.

Control measures: v Provide adequate irrigation @ 4.5litre/m2

Control measures: v Application of nitrogen @ 25- 40 ppm and boron @ 20-25 ppm

Causes v Appearance of plugging materials like pectin, cellulose and microbes v Extreme temperature during shipping or storage v Water deficiency in the neck tissues

5. Grassiness Grassiness refers to failure of plants to produce flowers. This is a genetic disorder which varies from variety to variety. Removal and destruction of affected plants is the only way of correcting this disorder.

ROSE 1. Bent Neck It is the insufficient flower stem hardening

2. Bull Head or Malformed flowers The central petals of the bud remain only partly developed and the bud appears flat.

7. Internode splitting Splitting of internodes affects the quality of cut flowers. Splitting is due to boron deficiency.

6. Slabside This disorder refers to uneven opening of flower buds resulting in the petals protruding on one side only, giving an asymmetrical and lopsided shape to the flower. It is common during cooler periods. Control measures: This can be overcome by gradually

or insufficient maturation of the stem tissues below the harvested flower which results in stem collapse and drying of plants too frequently.

Rose- Bull head

Rose- Bent neck

Causes v Lack of carbohydrates to develop the petals v Thrips infestation v Low temperature during shipping or storage

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Floriculture Today May 2012 31

Flower Diseases 3. Blind wood The sepals and petals are present, but the reproductive parts are absent or aborted. Blind wood is generally short and thin. But it may attain considerable length and thickness when it develops at the top of the plant.

Rose- Blind shoot

4. Blackening of rose petals v This can be recognized by the darkening of rose petals. Causes v Low temperature (200C at day and 40 C at night than in higher temperature (300C at day and 200C at night)

v v

for limited supply of assimilates. Boron deficiency Night temperature below 150C and day temperature above 280C

Control measures: v Application of CCC @ 500 ppm and GA @ 100 ppm to be effective v Application of Boron @ 30 to 60 ppm 6. Limp neck The affected flower buds bend down due to the weight of the top. Causes v Insufficient stored energy of flower heads v Water stress in the area just below the flower head

Blackening of rose petals

Causes v Low temperature, insufficient light during growth and development v Insects, pests, fungal diseases during growth and development v Chemical residues

32 Floriculture Today May 2012

5. Flower bud abortion No flower bud initiation occurs or if at all it starts. Shoots do not proceed beyond the initiation of pistils and stamens primordial. Causes v Competition among growing shoots

GERBERA 1. Bent Neck It is the insufficient flower stem hardening or insufficient maturation of the stem tissues below the harvested flower which results in stem collapse and drying of plants too frequently.

Flower Diseases elongation of cells. 2. Tip burn Discolouration and drying up the tips of leaves of gerbera Causes v High levels of aerial fluorides in the atmosphere Gerbera- Bent neck

Causes v Related to bacterial contamination which is sensitive to ethylene. v Light intensity is too low. v U se of hi gher dose of grow t h regulators

Control measures: Spray of Blitox 50 WP (0.3%) should be given at the initiation of the symptom and repeated once more if required.

Causes v Zinc deficiency

Causes v Imbalance of nutrients

Control measure: v Apllication of Zinc @ 20- 100 ppm

3. Scape Bending This phenomenon of cut gerbera is caused by excessive bacterial growth in vase solution which reduces longevity.

4. Topple The collapse of a small portion of the internode just beneath the flower is called sugar stem or wet stem.

4. Premature flower wilt Premature wilting of flower occurs while stems are still attached to the plants and often develops just as petals are in full expansion.

Causes v Calcium deficiency

5. Pre harvest stem break It is common post harvest disorder in cut gerberas. Causes v Water imbalances v Early senescence associated with water stress GLADIOLUS 1. Geotropic bending of spikes The tips of gladiolus spikes show tendency to bend against gravity if placed horizontally for longer periods. Causes • Accumulation of IAA on the lower portion of spike causes asymmetrical

ANTHURIUM 1. Colour breakdown of spathe These can be recognized by colour breaks, which may or may not be accompanied by distortion of the spathe. The suspected cause is genetic mutation within the spathe.

3. Blindness It results in complete absence of spikes.

2. Double faced gerbera Vegetative growth is very high while the flower buds are small.

Causes v Lack of storage carbohydrates

4.Water stress Water stress causes wilting of Cymbidium and Phalaenopsis. Low rate of transpiration associated with low uptake of water are major factors involved in such problems.

Control measure: v Application of Calcium nitrate @ 24 ppm can be sprayed. ORCHIDS 1. Sun burn Excess light (more than 2400 to 3600 foot candles) Control measure: Shade (75- 80%) adjustment given accordingly 2. Wilting of floral parts Rapid temperature change and the high temperature combined with dry air

Anthurium- Colour break down

Cause: Calcium deficiency Control measures: v Application of Calcium nitrate 24.75g/m2 v Lime is applied @ 5g/ plant/ month 2. Sticking Flowers do not open properly and spathe is stuck. It is variety dependent. Low relative humidity is the cause. During the early stage, the flowers are loosened by hand. 3. Jamming Flowers get jam in the sheath. The leaf is wound too tightly around the flower. It is variety dependent and occurs during arid conditions. It also occurs more frequently in cultivars with long sheaths. Humidifying the top layer of the substrate is recommended to provide a favourable micro- climate.

Control measures: Good ventilation can alleviate this problem.

4. Folded- ears The suspected cause is an environmental – physiological interaction. The Ozaki spathe has long elongated to an obake shape. Temperature below 150C causes this disorder.

3. Freak flowers Flowers are deformed which might be due to genetic cause.

5. Cracks The scratches are found which are caused due to the abrasion during recindering, Floriculture Today May 2012 33

Flower Diseases harvesting or wind movement among the leaves and flowers. 6. Sun burn Overall fading of the spathe colour or browning of the spadix which is caused by direct sunlight, light shade levels and flower age. Largest flowers shows normal colour.

8. Deformed spathes The suspected cause is an environmentalphysiological interaction. The spathe may also be wrinkled or curled as in Kozohara flowers. Deformed spathes can be caused physiologically by physical and chemical damage early in the development of flowers.

10. Deformed spadix Crooked or shortened spadixes are caused by an environmentalphysiological interaction such as experienced during transplant shock. Shortening of the spadix often occurs along with the Ozaki- obake conversion.

Anthurium – Deformed spathe

Anthurium – sun burn

7. Crooked stem The suspected cause is an environmentalphysiological interaction involving excessive nitrogen feeding and fluctuating wet and dry condition. Heavy shade levels and lack of pruning may also contribute to crooked stems.

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9. Bleach In mild cases, impaired colour development occurs in the lobe area of the spathe and in severe cases the entire flower including the Anthurium Bleach spadix may show the signs of insufficient colour development, stunting, distortion and necrosis. The suspected cause of bleaching is an environmentalphysiological interaction. Involving excessive application of ammonium nitrogen, excessive salt buildup and fluctuating low and high temperatures.

Anthurium – Deformed spadix

11. Vog spotting It is called as a volcanic smog spotting. Purple spots that later turns whitish, appearing randomly on the flower spathe result from sulphur dioxide gas emitted during

Anthurium Vog spotting

FLOWER DISEASES the volcanic eruptions and taken in through stomatoes, causing a localized internal burn.

Spray of Blitox 50 WP (0.3%) should be given at the initiation of the symptom and repeated once more if required.

turgidity. This is due to boron deﬁciency and low night temperature (< 150C).

12. Phytotoxicity Incorrect fertilizer, sticker or pesticide application rates or methods can cause necrotic or distorted areas on the spathe.

CHRYSANTHEMUM 1. Crown bud Bud development is severely retarded and involucral bracts become glossy enlarged. The plants which are grown in long days after receiving a few short days produce crown buds. In severe condition, the bud turns pinkish and sometimes prevents bud blooming. This is due to calcium deﬁciency.

Control measures:  Borax@ 3g/l (applied during vegetative, bud initiation and ﬂowering stage. Safe range of application of boron @ 25- 75 ppm is recommended.

4. Bleaching of petals Day temperature above 400C and night temperature below 150C causes bleaching of petals.

Anthurium – Phytotoxicity

13. Flower abortion, flower deformation and rosette formation Flower spikes aborts and growth of the spathe is stunted and the stem of the flower is also short. This occurs under conditions in which the plant builds up a strong pressure that cannot be processed by the plant above ground. LILIUM 1. Flower blasting Buds fails to develop marketable flowers after the floral organs have been initiated. The flowers are blasted because of forcing under high temperature, low light intensities and release of ethylene gas in the greenhouse.

3. Pink coloration of white petals Night temperature below 150C causes pink colour in white petals.

5. Delayed flowering or no flower bud formation Bud development is completely arrested and the formed buds develop slowly and stop development or abort. This is due to too long photoperiods and low night temperature and also due to copper and manganese deficiency.

Control measures:  Application of Calcium nitrate @ 5g/ litre

Control measures:  Application of Manganese sulphate (3 g/ l) applied at vegetative, bud initiation and at ﬂowering stage.  Application of Copper sulphate (1 g/ l) 

2. Quiling of ﬂorets Petals get twisted and become cup shaped. The peripheral flowers lose its

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Chrysanthemum- crown bud

Floriculture Today Magazine ? Lilium leaf scorch

2. Flower bud abscission The ﬂower bud abscission is caused by low irradiance and short daily light periods. 3. Tip burn Leaves of the upper part of the plant have white- grey cross bands about 2 cm from the tip caused by collapse of one layer of palisade parenchyma cells just under the epidermal layer. Calcium deﬁciency and high relative humidity increases tip burn. Control measures:

Chrysanthemum-Quilling of ﬂorets

Just Contact: 011-26681671/26682045 E-mail: MediaTodayMails@gmail.com FLORICULTURE TODAY May 2012 35

Interview

Flower growers should target quality as well as quantity Anil B Kotecha, Director & CEO, Ghodawat Agro Pvt Ltd, expects a positive growth in Indian flower sector, but also feels that growers and other stakeholders should unite to address the issues related to this segment to boost quality along with quantity. Excerpts from his chat with Floriculture Today’s Correspondent Firoz Haider: In the last few years, the consumption of flowers has been on the increase. As a leading floriculture unit in Maharashtra, what do you think are the reasons for this marked rise in demand? There are several factors that may be responsible for this positive upswing. I will attribute the growth to income rise, upgradation of standard of living, increase in buying capacity and changes in lifestyle. Being a flower grower, you are also witnessing fluctuations in the growth in this sector. Can you elaborate the recent trend of production of flowers in Maharashtra? Growth and slide-back are related to factors like climatic conditions, market demand and supply. Dutch Rose is the major crop being cultivated here, followed by Gerbera. But very few growers are engaged in cultivation of various types and varieties of flowers. The market demand and taste are also gradually changing. Increasing purchasing power has led us to cultivate value added flower crops such as Lilium (Orientals) and Phalaenopsis, to name a few. In particular, the flower market is on an overdrive on important days like Mother’s Day, Valentine’s Day and so on. How far is this pattern catching up within the country? Do you feel apart from 36 Floriculture Today May 2012

special days, marriage season and big events are also main driving force behind this? Yes, cultural adaptation from western countries has led to increasing demand of flowers on special occasions like Mothers Day, Valentine’s Day etc. Also at national level, the demand for flowers is increasing and people are happy to spend on the flower decoration to add value and attraction on special occasions. In General , due to income growth, Change in lifestyle, western culture adaptation, modernization, buying capacity etc, consumers are now willing to shed or allocate some extra cost / budget for flowers decorations and consumption on various celebrations as Marriages , Valentine, Christmas, Anniversaries etc. now a days ”Theme Trend” could be of any particular colour or flower type is catching and on such occasion the procurement pricing / budget is ignored for necessary demand fulfilment. Some high value Theme Events may end up with budget of crores too. Now, upper middle class and above segment have started consuming fresh flowers on day to day basis. Further due to India’s various religions, caste and communities, there are respective several kinds of festivals and marriage seasons along with the common national celebrations. This has been an added advantage for flower industry as growers and retailers can be sure of consistent flower supplies to the domestic markets.

Interview A recent survey shows that India has emerged as the world’s second best retail destination for all commodities. Does this big, global trend extend to flower consumption also? Not yet . . . but the trend is gradually rising, and hopefully, the local consumption too would rise to its peak as in other commodities. Of course the floriculture trade is evolving itself on modern lines. But still don’t you see that the trade remains largely in the unorganised sector. Would you say there is need to organise the floriculture industry now on a common platform, given the challenges that are opening up? Yes, now it’s time. Probably all the growers from all places need to unite and organise for their betterment. This shall help to maintain uniform pricing at the national and international levels, and thus avoid price variations to some extent. How should Indian growers go about in their bid to meet the growing international demand? What are the opportunities for them to directly market their flowers? For this, growers have to increase the cultivation volumes, minimise the overheads, and target quality and quantity. Can you a give a detailed view of the domestic markets and price realization? For the last couple of years, a positive growth has been observed in the domestic markets for almost all types of flowers and we can only anticipate more growth to remain for at least another decade. At times, despite being the country’s largest farm, we fall short of produce against the market needs. Demand for various flower types, varies from market to market. Gerberas, Carnations, Roses, Gladiuolus, Tuberose, Fillers as Springari, Golden Rods, Palm Fish etc are classified as regular consumable products and are in high demand from Hyderabad, Vijaywada markets. Anthuriun, Lilium (Orientals and Asiatic), Dendrobium, Orchid, Phalaenopsis, Calla Lily, Limonium, Solidago, Hydrangea BOP and few ornamental flowers are classified as high value premium products that are in big demands from the Cosmo markets such as Mumbai, Delhi and Pune along with the regulars products. These are established trends in these markets and factors responsible for this include social, religious, economic ethos and practices. The new upcoming and potential North Indian markets like Nagpur, Kolkata, amritsar and Chandigarh are showing their interest for direct professional association with the growers. This trend is also visible in Bangalore and Chennai. Even neighboring countries like Nepal and Bangladesh are keen for regular supplies from Indian growers.

Minimum

Maximum

GERBERA-

1.50 /-

20/-

ROSES

03/-

12/-

LILIUMS

20 /-

45/-

(Asiatic variety)

40 /-

65/-(Oriental Variety)

GYPSOPHILLA

05/-

15/-

CARNATIONS

03 /-

14/-

developed on qualitative, quantitative and commitment basis. What are your future expansion plans? Can you share your vision with our readers as production in near metros is going down and you have the advantage of area to produce good quality flowers in adequate volumes? We are currently growing flowers in over 120 acres, and we propose to increase the area to about 500 acres by 2015, with various crops and varieties of fresh cut flowers, along with a range of filler material. We are also trying our best to serve all the floral needs from one point of source. Any other thought or idea you would like to share with our readers? Floriculture industry should have to function as a main course business with dedication, depth of knowledge, regular innovation as per market demands and supply. n

Prices The current approximate maximum and minimum rates (INR) per stem are: Prices vary according to markets requirements, demand and supply. What are major export markets for Indian growers? Export market destinations for fresh cut flowers are Japan, Australia, New Zealand (Seasonal markets) and U K and Europe (year-round markets). Russia can prove as a great potential market for fresh cut flowers. All the above markets can be satisfactorily Floriculture Today May 2012 37

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News

Fully open eyes enhance rose scent: Study Next time you smell roses, try doing it with your eyes open to get the best aroma. A new study has revealed that activating the brain’s visual cortex with a small amount of electrical stimulation actually improves our sense of smell. The finding by researchers at the Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital- The Neuro, McGill University and the Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, revises our understanding of the complex biology of the senses in the brain. “It’s known that there are separate specialized brain areas for the different senses- vision, smell, touch and so forth but when you experience the world around you, you get a coherent picture based on information from all the senses. We wanted to find out how this works in the brain,” said Dr. Christopher Pack, lead investigator at The Neuro. “In particular we wanted to test the idea that activation of brain regions primarily dedicated to one sense might influence processing in other senses. We found that electrically stimulating the visual cortex improves performance on a task that requires participants to identify the odd odor out of a group of three,” he explained. The result revealed that on a basic level the brain structures involved in different senses are quite interconnected in everyonemore so than previously understood.

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“This ‘cross-wiring’ of senses has been described in people with synesthesia, a condition in which stimulation of one sense leads to automatic, involuntary experiences in a second sense, causing people to see the colour of numbers, or smell words, or hear odours for example,” stated Dr. Johan Lundstrom at Monell Chemical Senses Center.

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News

Kanikonna aplenty this season This Vishu Day (New Year Day in Kerala), the flower lovers of Southern cities like Kochi and Ernakulam were happy as they got Kanikonna (cassia fistula) in abundance for the Kani. The golden shower flowers, in full bloom this season after some dry spells, found their rightful place in the Kani – plate, full of good things kept in the Puja room to be seen first as soon as one gets up. The flower is known as Amaltus in Hindi, Amaha in Sanskrit and Sarakonnai in Tamil. It belongs to Caesalpiniaceae family, and has an indigenous origin. The tree size is medium and height at maturity is 8-10 ft. The yellow flowers bloom in March to April and July to September. They are used for medicinal and ornamental purposes. “Most of the flowers are from Alappuzha, mainly from Ambalapuzha and Cherthala. The price is around Rs 20 a packet or small bundle,” said Unnikrishnan, a flower dealer in Ernakulam. The last couple of years saw a dire shortage of Kanikonna flowers during Vishu as the trees had been flowering well ahead of the flowering season. “Kanikonna tree is sensitive to temperature, especially in the flowering and fruiting season. It needs high temperature to trigger leaf production, and then flowers begin to bloom. Soon the leaves start falling, leaving the trees full of golden yellow flowers,” said Jacob Varghese, professor, Department of Botany, Sacred Heart College, Kochi.

He said the trees, which traditionally bloom in April, have been, of late, blooming several times from December, indicating that there is a frequent change in the weather pattern. The tree grows well in dry climate and needs full sun on well-drained soil. “Though there has not been any intense research on the changes in these seasonal plants, we have been observing that those trees which have green leaves are in full bloom for a longer time than the ones whose leaves fall off,” said Dr B K Rajeevan, head, Department of Floriculture, Kerala Agricultural University. On being asked whether air pollutants played a role in flowers blooming early, Rajeevan said ethylene, a pollutant emanating from vehicle fumes acted as a catalyst in triggering the separation of leaves and flowers. “Though ethylene isn’t a very strong pollutant, it speeds up the flowering process,” he added. Vishu is a New Year festival celebrated in Kerala. It is similar to the New Year festivals observed elsewhere in India like Baisakhi (Punjab), Bihu (Assam), Nav Barsha (Bengal), Bisu (Tulu Nadu region in Karnataka) and Puthandu (Tamil Nadu). Vishu generally falls on April 14 of the Gregorian calendar. This occasion signifies the Sun’s transit to the zodiac – Mesha Raasi (first zodiac sign) as per Indian astrological calculations and astronomically represents the vernal equinox. “Vishu” in Sanskrit means “equal”. Therefore Vishu is more probably denoting one of the equinox days. Although Vishu (first of Medam) is the astrological new year day of Kerala, the official Malayalam new year falls on the first month of Chingam (August – September). However, 1st of Chingam has no significance either astrologically or astronomically. Chingam is the harvest season in Kerala and southern parts of coastal Karnataka. 46 Floriculture Today May 2012

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