Floriculture Today- October issue

Floriculture Today October 2012

Floriculture Today September 2012

Floriculture Today September 2012

Floriculture Today October 2012

Floriculture Today October 2012

Floriculture Today October 2012

www.floriculturetoday.in

Chief Editor

Contents

S. Jafar Naqvi

Consulting Editors T.V. Satyanarayanan

K Dharmarajan Chief Coordinator M.B. Naqvi Editorial Coordinator Syed M K

News Editor

General Manager

Layout & Design

Anwar Huda

8

Editorial

Lalitha V. Rajan Mohd. Iqbal Faiyaz Ahmad

10 Cover Story

Promising EU Export Markets for Traditional Flowers

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Printed, published and owned by M.B. Naqvi, Printed at Everest Press, E-49/8, Okhla Industrial Area Ph-II, New Delhi - 110 020 and Published from E-11/47 A, New Colony, Hauz Rani, Malviya Nagar, New Delhi-110017 (INDIA) Editor : S. Jafar Naqvi Vol 17....... Issue 5...... October 2012

Floriculture Today October 2012

– Ajai Kr. Tiwari and Ramesh Kumar

– Archana Gupta and Krishna Gupta

20 Flower Therapy

The Healing Power of Flowers

– Dr. M. Kannan, P. Ranchana and Dr. M. Jawaharlal 26 gardening

Roof Gardening 28 Research Journal

International Journal of Innovative Research

Karnataka Governor Launches Inaugural Issue 32 Cut Flower

Lisanthus – A Beautiful Cut Flower – P. Selvakumari, N. Deepa Devi and V. Ponnuswami

40 Pre-event Report

Horti Fair Amsterdam 2012

New Products for Horticulture to be Unveiled 43 Research

Plant Breeding Using Mutation Techniques – Atul Batra and B.K.Banerji

44 v v

v

News Expo Flora Russia 2012 Exhibitor-growers happy!

Dutch Rose Breeder introduces the first guide book to spray roses Biologists create body clock timetable inspired by flower clock theory

Floriculture Today October 2012

Editorial L

et it be floriculture or macro economics, political or social issues – on all of them, fortunately, there are some people who can not only think afresh, but can also make others think. They give food for thought for researchers and others to pursue matters further. Former President APJ Abdul Kalam is one such personality, who can trigger ideas in others’ minds.

When Media Today team met Dr Kalam in 2006 to invite him to inaugurate Flora Expo held in New Delhi, he made an off-the-cuff remark: Can any flower beat the in fragrance Madurai Malli?

Maybe, this idea was the inspiration for the researchers of Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU). Thanks to the good work they have done on this unique jasmine variety, it is now likely to become a global brand. A special facility has been created at the Agricultural College and Research Centre in Madurai to address problems of its production and marketing.

TNAU and Hyderabad-based International Crops Research Institute for Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), with the support of Madurai District Administration, have prepared an action plan to further this cause. Alongside, a proposal is under consideration to establish a Development Council for Madurai Malli.

According to a report prepared by a Consultative Group of growers, experts and officials, the demand for this variety of jasmine is on the rise, and there is a mis-match between supply and demand.

The annual demand for this flower is estimated at 10,500 tonnes, while the production is has been in the range of 9500 tonnes. Over 4000 farmers are growing this flower in the district in an area of about 1250 hectares.

To promote the cultivation of this variety, there is a need to address some issues of urgent importance like infrastructure development, including creation of adequate cold storage facilities, ensuring speedy transportation, removal of marketing bottlenecks and reducing the wide seasonal price fluctuations.

While Madurai Malli’s specialty is its fragrance, there are also many other flowers in various regions deserving greater attention and support because of their pleasing special traits. What contributes to their uniqueness could be a subject matter for study by experts. Is it because of the distinct climate or soil on which they grow, or is it some in-built genetic trait in them, or all these factors combined together?

Nature’s ways and marvels look mysterious indeed. Among many rare species of plants in this country are some that flower only once in 12 years or so. Neela Kurinchi flowers (Strobilanthes Kunthiana) in the hill areas of south India belong this category, as Dr Kalam had mentioned. When in full bloom they give a breathtaking view of the hills, which look painted in reddish blue. Similar flowers, making their presence only once in a decade or so, can be seen also in the Himalayan region. State tourist departments could give wide publicity to such flowering events and thus earn more revenue.

Among nature’s gifts to this country are diverse climatic and soil conditions, conducive to creation of a storehouse of vast and varied floral wealth. This diversity needs to be further explored and exploited judiciously to reap greater economic benefits.

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

10

Floriculture Today October 2012

Floriculture Today October 2012

11

Cover Story

Promising EU Export Markets for Traditional Flowers In the last three issues of Floriculture Today, we carried parts of a report on global floriculture industry prepared

by Centre for Promotion of Imports from Developing Countries (Dutch acronym CBI), Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands.

The following is the 4th in the series.

T

he EU market for traditional flowers has gone through some turbulent years.

Growers in developing countries continue to make headway in the EU market and force EU growers out of certain market segments.

Meanwhile, several European countries, including euro zone members Greece, Portugal and Ireland, are facing the threat of a national debt crisis.

Demand for traditional flowers threatened by new crisis

In 2008, the EU flower market amounted to approximately â‚Ź 13 billion.

The largest flower markets in the EU were: Germany (23% market share), UK (15%), France (15%), Italy (11%), the Netherlands (7.6%), Spain (5.7%),

12

Floriculture Today October 2012

Belgium (3.3%) and Poland (3.2%).

EU demand for flowers has fluctuated in the past few years. Between 2003 and 2007, demand remained more or less stable. During the second half of 2008, demand fell, as the global economic crisis struck the EU. In the period January-April 2009, the turnover of the FloraHolland flower auction was 13.3% lower than in the same period in 2008. In the second half of 2009, demand started to recover from the crisis and 2010 was regarded as a reasonably good year by the surviving flower companies.

The global economic crisis affected all EU countries, but to different degrees.

Most remarkable was that most former growth markets were hit particularly hard. These markets included the United Kingdom (UK), Spain, Greece, Ireland

and Poland. In general, EU countries outside the Euro zone, performed worse than countries in the Euro zone.

The devaluation of currencies in the United Kingdom, Poland and Sweden aggravated the effects of the global economic crisis in these countries.

Among the EU countries, German flower consumption seems to have been least affected by the economic crisis.

The global economic crisis had such an impact on most South European countries (Portugal, Spain, Italy and Greece) and Ireland that their economies slipped to the edge of a figurative abyss. In 2011, the near collapse of these economies threatened the Euro zone as a whole. Therefore, the Euro group made concerted efforts to save the weak economies. The outcome of these efforts

Cover Story

will determine if consumers in these countries will remain confident in their national economy and continue to spend money on luxury items, such as flowers.

In the medium and long term, sluggish growth of 2 to 4% annually is still expected in Western Europe’s cut flower markets. Emerging markets, such as East European countries, are expected to make a particularly significant contribution to the long-term growth in total EU consumption.

Production of traditional flowers shifts to developing countries

The value of cut flower production in the EU, according to the latest available data, amounts to approximately € 9.5 billion. The Netherlands is by far the major producer in the EU, accounting for 40% of total production value. Other major producers are: Italy, Germany and France.

Production development in the cut flowers sector differs strongly between countries. In some Northwest European countries like France, Germany and Belgium, the area for cut flowers production is declining. A larger number of countries report a decline in the number of active growers: the Netherlands, the UK, France, Italy, Spain and Belgium. The average production per company, however, increases, resulting in stable overall production figures. Furthermore, East-European countries like Poland and Hungary are showing a recovery, and even growth, in cut flower production, driven by increased domestic demand.

EU companies grow a wide

Traditionally, flowers heading for European markets enter the European Union via Amsterdam airport, located near the Dutch auctions. As from mid-2009, an increasing amount of flowers is supplied through Belgian airports, due to the availability of night flights, handling benefits, lower costs and smoother Customs procedures and phytosanitary checks. In the market for traditional flowers, this is most visible in Rosa imports from Ethiopia. variety of traditional flowers. Despite sub-optimal climatic conditions, EU companies can grow top-quality Rosa, Chrysanthemum, Dianthus and other traditional flowers throughout the year. Many use heating, and advanced cultivation technologies like assimilation lighting and additional Carbon Dioxide (CO2).

As a result of the increasing competition and search for lower costs, some European growers (particularly in the Netherlands) relocate their production to lower cost countries, which offer favourable cultivation circumstances. An increasing number of Rosa and summer flower growers has set up flower farms in countries such as Kenya and Ethiopia.

EU imports are concentrated in the Netherlands Between 2006 and 2010, the value

of EU imports of traditional flowers increased by 2.2% annually. However, between 2008 and 2009, during the global economic crisis, imports decreased at annual average rate of 2.1% to € 1.5 billion / 312 thousand tonnes. The growth in imports from developing countries (DCs) was more robust and continued throughout the period 20062010 at an average annual rate of 6.4%.

New EU entry route via Belgian Airports

Traditionally, flowers heading for European markets enter the European Union via Amsterdam airport, located near the Dutch auctions. As from mid2009, an increasing amount of flowers is supplied through Belgian airports, due to the availability of night flights, handling benefits, lower costs and smoother Customs procedures and phytosanitary checks. In the market for traditional flowers, this is most visible in Rosa imports from Ethiopia.

In 2010, the leading EU importers of traditional flowers were: the Netherlands (23%), United Kingdom (UK) (21%), Germany (18%), France (8.9%), Belgium (6.1%), Italy (4.5%), Poland (3.0%), Spain (2.7%) and Austria (2.7%). Imports from developing countries are more concentrated, the leading EU importers being: the Netherlands (54%), UK (17%), Belgium (12%), Germany (7.0%) and Spain (4.8%).

Since the mid-nineties, imports of traditional flowers have been dominated

by Rosa. Nearly all EU countries increased their imports of Rosa in the period 2006-2010. This indicates that Floriculture Today October 2012

13

Cover Grain Story (1) the increased popularity of Rosa was widespread and sustained and that (2) Rosa is the leading product for which production has shifted out of the EU. Low-cost supplies from developing countries, which offer good growing conditions, have further strengthened demand for Rosa. DCs also supply considerable quantities of Chrysanthemum, Lilium, Dianthus and Zantedeschia.

The Netherlands has a dominant position in total supplies of traditional flowers to the EU. In 2010, the Netherlands supplied 57% of total EU imports in terms of value. A great part of the supplies by the Netherlands consist of re-exports. Nevertheless, as the Netherlands is also the biggest EU producer of traditional flowers, the major part of its exports still consists of locally grown products.

Promising EU export markets

The Netherlands is the centre of EU trade in traditional flowers. The large supplies of Dutch growers are complemented by supplies from countries all over the world. The combined supplies are sufficient to cover 57% of total EU imports. Domestic production is stable in terms of output, while demand from traders and at the auctions slowly increases. Consequently, imports

Comparison of EU demand, production and imports of traditional flowers, in value € million, growth in %

Consumption

Value 2010

EU27

Production

Growth ‘09-‘10

Imports from DCs

Share of DC in total imports

Value

Year

Value 2010

Growth ‘06-‘10

Value 2010

Growth ‘06-’10

Attractivity index

n.a.

n.a.

1,699

2.2

687

6.4

40

Netherlands

810

0.6

3,780

2009

385

4.3

372

5.4

97

+++

United Kingdom

2,510

6.8

304

2009

359

-0.9

117

-1.0

33

+++

Germany

4,080

1.0

1,574

2008

313

-0.7

48

3.1

15

+++

France

2,670

-0.6

956

2008

150

-1.8

4.8

-3.7

3.2

++

Belgium

460

0.0

254

2008

103

37

82

86

80

++

Italy

2,670

-0.6

1,408

2008

76

0.3

5.1

4.7

6.8

+

Poland

370

5.9

60

2006

51

10

0.1

38

0.2

++

Spain

1,190

4.0

412

2006

46

1.0

33.0

3.4

73

+/-

Austria

290

0.0

160

2009

45

7.9

7.1

4.3

16

+

Denmark

220

0.0

323

2008

26

4.2

0.0

-4.3

0.0

-

Sweden

310

11.4

95

2008

25

-7.7

7.5

-5.9

30

+/-

Czech Republic

2 165

4 7.6

71

2009

25

11

0.6

-2.8

2.3

+

Ireland

2 156

4 3.7

18

2007

15

6.8

0.1

-56

0.2

-

Finland

1 195

3 5.3

98

2009

12

9.5

0.0

-90

0.0

+/-

Romania

2 142

4 20.6

n.a.

n.a.

11

11

3.4

39

32

+

Portugal

1 159

3 2.6

457

2005

9.8

-1.6

0.6

-9.2

5.7

-

Slovakia

2 54

4 5.4

n.a.

n.a.

9.4

7.8

1.0

19

11

+

Hungary

2 151

4 4.0

95

2006

7.3

-7.4

0.1

-24

2.0

+/-

Lithuania

n.a.

n.a.

n.a.

n.a.

6.4

3.6

0.0

-100

0.0

+/-

Greece

1 235

3 8.6

172

2006

5.5

-8.8

0.9

-16

15

--

Slovenia

1 42

3 0.0

n.a.

n.a.

5.2

2.2

0.0

n.a.

0.0

-

Estonia

n.a.

n.a.

n.a.

n.a.

4.3

-6.0

0.0

-100.0

0.0

--

Latvia

n.a.

n.a.

n.a.

n.a.

3.1

-17

0.0

-79

0.1

--

Bulgaria

n.a.

n.a.

n.a.

n.a.

2.7

2.9

1.2

7.6

44

+/-

Luxembourg

n.a.

n.a.

n.a.

n.a.

2.3

2.6

0.8

17

33

-

Cyprus

n.a.

n.a.

n.a.

n.a.

1.6

30

1.1

45

69

-

Malta

n.a.

n.a.

n.a.

n.a.

0.3

1.1

0.0

n.a.

0.0

--

1 Data for 2007 instead of 2010 2 Data for 2008 instead of 2010 3 Annual average growth 2004-2007 4 Annual average growth 2004-2008 Source: Flower Council of Holland (2009, 2010, 2011), AIPH (2010), Eurostat (2010)

14

Total imports

Floriculture Today October 2012

Cover Story increase, particularly those from DCs. The Netherlands offers opportunities for almost all flower species.

Chrysanthemum is an exception to this, as domestic growers occupy very strong positions in this market.

The United Kingdom and Germany are leading EU end-markets, as well as being the second and third largest EU importers of traditional flowers.

The share of DCs in imports is lower in Germany than in the UK, since Germany grows more traditional flowers domestically. Both countries reported net decreases in total imports for the period 2006-2010, although German imports from DCs increased in the same period.

Moreover, since the global economic crisis, the German market has been more stable than the British market.

France, Italy and Spain are all major markets for traditional flowers which have a considerable domestic flower growing sector. Demand is declining in all three markets. Nevertheless, demand for Rosa remains considerable.

Moreover, Spain is an interesting market

for Dianthus, as its domestic Dianthus production cannot keep up with international markets.

Poland is one of the leading growth markets in the EU. Until the beginning of the global economic crisis, the size of the Polish market increased at double digit annual rates. Although imports dropped in 2008 due to the economic crises, the sharp recovery in 2010 confirmed that Poland will remain a leading growth market in the long term. Moreover, Poland is increasingly importing traditional flowers directly from DCs, although direct imports from DCs slowed down during the economic crisis.

Belgium is a medium-sized but expanding market for traditional flowers. The country already imports a considerable part of its traditional flowers from DCs. Although data show rapid growth in Belgian imports, a lot of these imports are destined for Dutch and other importers. Actual growth is estimated to be slow in both the Netherlands and Belgium.

The list below presents the five most

interesting products in the EU market for traditional flowers. Demand for these products is large and developing countries play a major role in the supply.

The selection of the EU countries in combination with these products is primarily based on the shares of these EU countries in total EU imports from DCs and the development in imports from DCs. Specific information on these product-market combinations is available in fact sheets. n Rosa: the Netherlands, United Kingdom, Germany, Spain, Sweden, Belgium, France, Italy and Poland. n Chrysanthemum: United Kingdom, Germany. n Dianthus: United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Spain, Germany. n Zantedeschia: the Netherlands. n Lilium: the Netherlands, United Kingdom.

Note that other product-market combinations might also offer interesting opportunities for DC exporters.

(This survey was compiled for CBI by ProFound – Advisers In Development in collaboration with ProVerde)

Floriculture Today October 2012

15

Climate Change

Indian Floriculture

Problems and prospects – Ajai Kr. Tiwari and Ramesh Kumar

Directorate of Floricultural Research, IARI Campus, New Delhi

F

loriculture has emerged as an important sub-sector of agriculture as a source of income for small and marginal farmers. Floriculture is estimated to cover an area of 1.91 lakh ha with a production of 10, 3100 MT of loose flowers and 69027 lakh cut flowers (NBH 2011). Nearly 77% of area under floricultural crops is concentrated in seven States comprising Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Maharashtra, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi. Among different states, Tamil Nadu ranks first in area followed by Karnataka, West Bengal and Andhra Pradesh. Production of cut flowers is highest in West Bengal (23919 lakh numbers) and loose flowers in Tamil Nadu (247.3 lakh MT). The production of cut flowers increased over the period to attain a production of 69027 million flowers during 2010-11 from 615 million cut flowers during the end of 1996-97.

16

Floriculture Today October 2012

Changing Climate’s Effect Earth’s climate is in a continuous state of change - it is inherent in the dynamic nature of our planet. It changes because of the interactions between the oceans and the atmosphere, changes in the Earth’s orbit, fluctuations in incoming radiation, and volcanic activity. Since the 1900s more rapid changes have taken place and these are thought to be mainly man-made.

The atmosphere surrounding the earth is made up of nitrogen (78%), oxygen (21%) and the remaining 1%, is made up of trace gases (called so because they are present in very small quantities) that include carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide.

These gases also called greenhouse gases act as a blanket and trap heat radiating from the earth and make the atmosphere warm. Some greenhouse gases are produced naturally and they are necessary to keep the Earth warm - without them the Earth would be about

30°C cooler. But the rapid increase in fossil fuel burning over the last century has released vast quantities of additional greenhouse gases into the atmosphere causing an imbalance in our natural climate system. It is because of this imbalance, that we are now experiencing much greater extremes and uncertainty in our climate. The increasing greenhouse gases (GHG) resulted in global warming by 0.74°C. The Intergovernmental Panel for Climate Change (IPCC) projections on temperature predicts an increase of 1.8 to 4.0°C, by the end of this century.

Tropical countries are likely to be affected more compared the countries situated in temperate regions. There is a likelihood of a considerable impact on floriculture land-use due to snow melt, frequency and intensity of inter- and intra- seasonal droughts and floods, soil organic transformation matters, soil erosion and energy problems as a consequence of global warming. Global

Climate Change

warming due to greenhouse effect is expected to impact hydrological cycle viz. precipitation, evapo-transpiration, soil moisture etc., which would pose new challenges for floriculture industry.

Global Scenario of Climate Change (a) Current scenario The global atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas (GHG) largely responsible for global warming, has increased from a preindustrial value of about 280 ppm to 391.57 ppm in 2011. Similarly, the global atmospheric concentration of methane and nitrous oxides, other important GHGs, has also increased considerably. (b) Future projections The projected temperature increase by the end of this century is likely to be in the range 2 to 4.5°C with a best estimate of about 3°C, and is very unlikely to be less than 1.5°C. It is likely that future tropical cyclones will become more intense, with larger peak wind speeds and heavier precipitation. For the next two decades a warming of about 0.2°C per decade is projected. Even if all future emissions were stopped now, a further warming of about 0.1°C per decade would be expected. Himalayan glaciers and snow cover are projected to contract. It is very likely that hot extremes, heat waves, and heavy precipitation events will continue to become more frequent. Increases in the amount of precipitation are very likely in high-latitudes, while decreases are likely in most subtropical land regions, continuing observed patterns in recent trends. The projected sea level rise by the end of this century is likely to be 0.18 to 0.59 meters. Average global surface ocean pH is projected to reduce between

0.14 and 0.35 units over the 21st century.

Indian Scenario of Climate Change (a) Current scenario Analyses done by the Indian Meteorology Department and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, Pune (MS), generally show the same trends for temperature, heat waves, glaciers,

frequent droughts and flood years are observed in the all India monsoon rainfall data. The analysis for the monthly rainfall series of June, July, August, and September (% variation) for significant variations on the regional scale are as under: v June rainfall has shown increasing trend for the western and south

There is a likelihood of a considerable impact on floriculture land-use due to snow melt, frequency and intensity of inter- and intra- seasonal droughts and floods, soil organic transformation matters, soil erosion and energy problems as a consequence of global warming. Global warming due to greenhouse effect is expected to impact hydrological cycle viz. precipitation, evapotranspiration, soil moisture etc., which would pose new challenges for floriculture industry. droughts and floods, and sea level rise as by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change of United Nations.

Magnitude of the change varies in some cases. The details of climate change in India are as under:Temperature Analysis of data suggests that annual mean temperature for the India as a whole has risen by 0.560C. During the winter season, since 1991, rise in minimum temperature is appreciably higher than that of maximum temperature over northern plains.

Upper air temperatures have shown an increasing trend in the lower troposphere while decreasing trend (not significant) was observed in the upper troposphere.

Precipitation The alternating sequence of multidecadal periods of thirty years having

v

v

v

v

western parts of the country whereas decreasing trends are observed for the central and eastern parts of the country.

The contribution of July rainfall is decreasing in central and west peninsular India, but has increased significantly in the north eastern parts of the country.

In August, four subdivisions have shown decreasing trends in rainfall.

September rainfall is increasing significantly in Gangetic West Bengal and decreasing significantly for the Marathwada, Vidarbha and Telangana.

Annual total rainfall for each year in percentages suggest that contribution of June and August rainfall exhibited significant increasing trends, while contribution of July rainfall exhibited decreasing trends.

Floriculture Today October 2012

17

Climate Change

Extreme Rainfall events The frequency of extreme rainfall (Rainfall ≥ 124.4 mm) shows increasing trend over the Indian monsoon region during the southwest monsoon season from June to September. Like the frequency of extreme rainfall events, the contribution of extreme rainfall to the total rainfall in a season is also showing highly significant increasing trend during the monsoon season from June to September and during June and July on monthly scale.

Cloud cover over the Indian Seas Both total and low cloud cover over Arabian Sea and the equatorial Indian Ocean are observed to decrease.

Heat Wave and Cold Wave A significant increase was noticed in the frequency, persistency and spatial coverage of both of these high frequency temperature extreme events (heat and cold wave) during the decade (1991-2010).

Discomfort indices It has been found that in general, there is an increasing trend in the discomfort indices from the last 10 days of April to June over most of the Indian cities.

Future projections It is projected that by the end of the 21st century rainfall will increase by 15 – 31%, and the mean annual temperature will increase by 3°C to 6°C. The warming is more pronounced over land areas, with the maximum increase over northern India. The warming is also projected to be relatively greater in winter and postmonsoon seasons.

18

Floriculture Today October 2012

Impacts of Climate Change on Floriculture In outdoor floriculture, climate change will directly impact on irrigation water use by affecting plant physiology, soil water balances, cropping patterns, the areas irrigated, the methods used and the volumes of water demanded for irrigation. v Higher CO2 concentrations will increase the potential yield of many flowers – due to improvements in the carbon partitioning within the plants. The increased plant growth in bulbous crops, for example, results in an increase in the storage organs increasing the yield. Where this is the case, crops could be harvested earlier for the same yield - thus reducing water requirements, or at normal harvest time to take advantage of the higher yield. Yield increases could, however, result in less land being planted to grow the same volume of produce, reducing water use. v Warmer temperatures may make many flowers and lawn grasses grow more quickly, but warmer temperatures could also reduce quality and yields. More extreme temperature and precipitation can prevent flower crops from seed formation and production particular of some annuals requiring low temperature for seed production.

Extreme events, especially floods and droughts, can harm crops and reduce yields. v Dealing with drought could become a challenge in areas where summer temperatures are projected to increase and precipitation is projected to decrease. As water supplies are reduced, it may be more difficult to meet water demands.

v Many weeds, pests and fungi thrive under warmer temperatures, wetter climates, and increased CO2 levels. v Simple adaptations such as change in planting dates and crop varieties could help in reducing impacts of climate change to some extent. v Global warming in short-term is likely to favour flowers production in temperate regions and negatively impact tropical flower production. v Pathogens and insect populations are strongly dependent upon temperature and humidity. Increases in these parameters will change their population dynamics resulting in yield loss. v Climate change will impact on the agronomy, economics, and environmental aspects of floriculture production. Under conditions of changing water availability, growers need to consider both short-term and long-term coping strategies.

The options available will depend on perceptions of climate change and the threats and opportunities it present individual businesses.

Figure 1: Direct impacts of climate change on irrigated floriculture.

PLANNING TO MITIGATE THE PROBLEMS Though new technologies and improved planting materials have been adopted, India’s contribution by way of export still far behind the desired target. Therefore, proper future planning targeting an all round development tapping existing potential is very much needed so that during 12th Five Year Plan floriculture will surpass all previous record of production and export. Some suggestive areas, crops, processes, value addition, survey, screening etc. which would be components of future plans are given below.

1. Re-orientation of agro-technologies for open field (loose flowers) / protective cultivation (cut-flowers) of floricultural crops targeting huge domestic market (use of suitable varieties, agro-techniques, improved irrigation system, nutrient management, marketing channel etc.).

Climate Change 2. Prospection of Indian plant diversity for screening & development of novel short duration, temperature and drought tolerant ornamental cultivars in view of climate change (Survey of various potential agro-climatic regions in India for screening and identification of new ornamentals having potential traits and development of new cultivars by using various methods of improvement (hybridization, mutation breeding, bio-technological tools).

3. Strengthening / standardization / popularization of F-1 hybrid seed production of selected seasonal / floricultural crops (Marigold, Petunia, Aster, Pansy, Phlox, Balsam, Sunflower, Zinnia etc.), transfer of technologies to the identified progressive farmers for commercialization.

4. Standardization of packaging techniques (grading, wrappers, vials, boxes / containers, labeling, unit / bulk pack as per international standard including commercialization of technology for export purpose.

5. Standardization of agro-technology and development of dwarf varieties of high value flowers / foliage plant to be grown as pot plants (Anthurium, Chrysanthemum, Carnation, Daffodils, Dracena marginata, Gerbera, Kalanchoe, Lilium, Orchids etc.).

6. Standardization of model of low cost protective cultivation technique (poly-house) for cutflower production and setting up of ‘Pilot Facility’ for popularization of amongst small / marginal farmers on cooperative basis targeting domestic markets.

7. Screening, experimentation on Low-cost Poly-house for Gerbera cut-flower production house / foliage plants for controlling indoor pollution capacity followed by selection and recommendation for interior plantscaping.

8. Screening, selection, development of PGRs, assessment of suitability as cutgreens for domestic / export purpose (viz. Eranthemum nigrum,

E. bicolor, Dracena tricolor, Melaleuca, Brassica regusa, Setcrasea, Sansevieria, Phalaris arundinacea, Rohoe spathacea etc).

9. Survey, screening, identification, collection, multiplication, assessment of indigenous genetic resources to be exploited as new ornamentals for commercialization viz.

Anemone vitifolia, Aster thomsonii, Erythrina resupinata, Hypericum oblongifolum, Woodfordia fruiticosa etc.

10. Standardization of process for manufacturing of pigments, essential oils, natural colours / dyes from flowers. Potential crops are Rosa spp., Jasmine, Murraya exotica, Geranium, Tuberose, Gardenia, Cestrum nocturnum (oils) ‘Harsingher’ (Nyctanthes arbortristis), Calendula, Cosmos, Carthemus tinctorius, Hibiscus rosasinensis, Elicpta alba etc.

11. High-tech floriculture (Protective cultivation of high value flowers for int’l markets).

12. Standardization of agro-technology, multiplication and popularization of ‘Specialty Flowers’ Alpinia purpurata (‘Red Ginger’), Zingibers - Etlingera (‘Torch Ginger’), Curcuma spp. (C. alismatifolia , C. parviflora etc), Heliconia, Strelitzia, Calla Lily, Limonium, Cooperanthes, Zephyranthes, Globba etc. as new flowers attract attention of buyers and market demand.

13. Dehydration of flowers / plant parts for value addition in the form artifacts / ‘Pot Pourri’ any other products by standardizing dehydration technique of different flowers, a complete protocol followed by transfer of technology to the entrepreneurs for export by engaging unemployed youths and women.

14. Technological back up for the

existing and anticipated flower cultivation in terms of new and improved varieties, production technology for open field and hi-tech production systems, plant protection and post harvest management for domestic and export markets.

15. Breeding for exportable varieties including designer flowers and tolerance/resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses using molecular breeding and advanced techniques.

16. Devising value addition protocols for essential oils, dry flowers, pigments and natural dyes for venturing in to these areas.

17. Laying focus on ornamental plant nurseries, consultancy for landscaping, eco-tourism and pot plant business.

18. Identification, domestication and commercialization of native flowers for creating niche markets.

19. Greenhouse designs for different regions and their construction with cheaper alternatives.

20. Market intelligence for providing information on demand, supply and price (domestic and international markets) of various flower commodities.

Fast technological development, change of trends of markets, open market, and steep competition are some of the factors which regulate floricultural markets internationally. Steady supply, quality, grading, packaging and transport are also associated with successful marketing of the flower and flower products. Promotion by way of exhibiting Indian flowers and value added products in different international Shows / Expos / Festivals should be taken up in a well-planned way for giving exposure to the international buyer to attract attention and widening business opportunities. n

Read Every Month

Floriculture Today www.floriculturetoday.in Floriculture Today October 2012

19

Tree Art

Bonsai—Art Plus horticulture – Archana Gupta and Krishna Gupta

(The Bonsai Study Group of the Indo Japanese Association, Mumbai)

‘B

onsai’, a Chinese and Japanese art of ‘Miniaturizing trees’ whose main feature –is its compact size –has already been determined in the natural state and then trained and grown in suitable ceramic pots. These miniature trees represent the most beautiful, carefully tended, and hardiest specimens in the plant kingdom and give us the opportunity to live with or be with nature in the cities.

With the help of all the ‘horticultural methods’, careful training and modifying a few features, keeping in mind the image of the shape one wants to emulate, a bonsai specialist can produce some of the most beautiful pieces of ‘living art’.

It is important to understand plant physiology and then use horticultural methods such as: a) Plucking buds:-The top-most buds are the strongest, if we want more branches on the lower levels and a compact growth we need to pinch these off, thus creating a healthy and compact bonsai. b) Layering and multiplying:Layering a horticultural method is applied when we want to reduce the height of a plant, thus making two plants at the same time when roots appear. c) Grafting:-Aesthetically in a bonsai we need to have a branch at the right place to balance the over-all shape, which is imagined by the bonsai artist and for this purpose we use the ‘grafting’ technique. d) Inarching:-This method is usually used to thicken the trunk base, an important aspect to show an aging tree. In this method we peel off a small portion of the trunk base and attach a separate plant of the same species with the help of a wire or a cord taking advantage of the character of a tree for example a Ficus which gets attached to

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in a bonsai tree giving more flowers and fruits. g) Fertilizing and Spraying:-Like to all gardens and plants, the bonsai’s too have to be sprayed with both organic or in-organic fertilizers and insecticides to keep them healthy and free of pests.

Though fertilizing is done more often in a bonsai for it grows in very little soil and a shallow ceramic container.

each-other and thickens fast. e) Supporting:-We normally provide support to a climber or a weak stem plant to give it a direction to grow.

Almost similar treatment is given to a bonsai plant where we temporarily wire the branches to give them direction and after it has attained it we carefully remove them in a few months. This then becomes a temporary brace which can be removed on achieving required shape. f) Trimming:- All Hedges, borders, trees etc. are trimmed , so also lawns are mowed and also roots of potted plants in gardens and houses need periodic trimming. This is the most important technique used to maintain any landscaped gardens to its perfectly manicured condition. This same technique is used to maintain a bonsai tree in its perfect condition every few months for its branches as well its roots to enhance the growth of new roots which indirectly help in dividing branches, thus making the plant dense with foliage. With the ability to produce more branches when they are cut at one node, it is an important technique for getting good ramification of the branches

All plant lovers should understand the basic difference between a potted plant and a bonsai. Take for example: - The most common and loved variety is a bougainvillea plant .As a potted plant one will expect it to be healthy and giving lots of flowers but as a ‘bonsai’ it has to be healthy, profusely flowering and should also have a specific tree like shape, in suitable styles which can be achieved by using all methods common horticultural practices as described above.

To sum it all, it is enough to say that instead of being malformations, bonsai represents one of the most beautiful ‘living art’ forms. These art forms not only give us fruits or flowers but also teach us some important virtues of life.

They are as follows:Bonsai are alive and you become aware of an old tree’s spirit. It communicates with you and rewards you with healthy growth.

Respect everything that is small, green and beautiful.

This art enhances virtues of patience, perseverance and to be meticulous.

Improves minute observation power by combining art and horticulture.

De-stress and meditate by practicing bonsai - the art of miniaturizing of tree.

Tender love and care of bonsai helps us appreciate bountiful nature around

Tree Art us. Fruits and flowers on a tree are constant reminder of the time dominated reality of life.

Evergreen trees with age, old look can be passed on from generation to generation. We learn to grow gracefully old with joy like the bonsai. Three dimensional shape of a miniature tree allows enough sunlight, enhancing its life.

Have enough space for wind and sunlight to pass through a bonsai for health & long life. So we can say “Let the birds fly in & out of your tree easily�.

Bonsai creates a micro environment & through this we can start to understand & appreciate macro environment of our vast nature.

Individuality, harmony & dignity get cultivated over a long time, suggesting the feeling of great age in bonsai.

Through bonsai we introduce new species of plants in India, preserve and develop them, making our flora rich and bountiful.

Bonsai also in turn will add commercial value to nurseries that develop & create pre-bonsai material

for sale. These nurseries can learn to develop bonsai’s & give them on hire to commercial spaces and also maintain n them.

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Flower Therapy

The Healing Power of Flowers – Dr. M. Kannan, P. Ranchana and Dr. M. Jawaharlal

(Department of Floriculture and Landscaping, HC& RI, TNAU, Coimbatore)

M

odern life, with all of its conveniences and technological advancements, can still be extremely stressful. Although there isn’t much that can be done about the pressures of growing wage gaps, rising fuel prices and longer shifts at the office to compensate, there are fortunately techniques that can be used to help reduce the impact of stress, enhance the beauty of your environment and improve your overall health. The secret weapons in this case are flowers and plants.

Flowers are known around the world to symbolize love, friendship, compassion, and celebration. Flowers are a part of our everyday life, they enliven our homes with their beauty and fragrance, grace our gardens with colour and creativity, delight us, seduce us and remind us of the beautiful, transitory life on Earth. According to research conducted in United States, “Flowers have immediate and long-term positive effects on reactions, mood, social behaviours and even memory for both males and females.” Botanists estimate there are more than 240,000 types of flowering plants on earth. Flowers and their essences have been used in medicine for ages. Many of today’s

herbal remedies are based on the ancient wisdom drawn from Mother Nature.

Some flowers that appear in natural products include immune-enhancing echinacea, anti-inflammatory calendula, stress-relieving passionflower, relaxing lavender, and stimulating patchouli.

Flowers not only just lift our spirits by their beauty and aroma but they have also been used as potent remedies for thousands of years. They contain the medical secrets for everything from broken bones to heart failure. They are the part of the plant which besides being beautiful is also rich in plant hormones. Due to the presence of many such compounds flowers are used across the world in popular and traditional medicines. ‘Flower power’ can be used as an infusion (called in lay terms as flower and fruit tea). They can be used as a poultice for skin problems and as an aroma therapy for many diseases.

Flowers are also a natural and healthful moderator of moods in the following ways: l Flowers have an immediate impact on happiness. l Flowers have a long-term positive effect on moods. l Flowers make intimate connections.

Apart from emotional benefits, flowers can also have a much more tangible effect on the human body.

The following are the list of some of the flowering plants that are used for relieving many problems in day to day life.

1. POT MARIGOLD (Calendula officinalis), Asteraceae Common Uses: acne, beauty, culinary, cuts, eyes, insects Properties: analgesic, antiinflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal antiscrofulous, astringent, cancer, cholagogue, depurative, diaphoretic/ sudorific emmenagogue, febrifuge, vulnerary Parts Used: flowers and oil Constituents: carotenoids, resin, essential oil, flavonoids, sterol, bitter principle, saponins, mucilage Medicinal Uses & Benefits Calendula is a stunningly beautiful flower, the deep orange and yellow petals form a colourful contrast with the greenery in the herb garden.

The German scientists identified the effectiveness of calendula in healing wounds and reducing inflammation.

It is particularly good treatment for cuts, scrapes, bruises, insect bites and minor wounds. Fresh calendula petals can also be infused in boiling water and used to treat minor infections, conjunctivitis, and mouth sores.

Calendula is also antifungal and so can help to cure thrush (Candida albicans).

The antibacterial and anti-inflamatory properties of calendula make it a good face wash for dry, irritated skin and acne. Calendula tinctures are also a concentrated and convenient way to treat sore or infected gums.

2. DANDELION (Taraxacum officinale), Asteraceae Common Uses: acne, alcoholism,

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Medicinal Therapy

bladder, bronchitis, bruises, cholesterol, colds, culinary, detoxification, diabetes, digestion, hormone, balance, hypertension, memory, osteoporosis, tonic Properties: bitter, cancer, cholagogue, depurative, diuretic, galactagogue, stomachic, tonic Parts Used: roots, flowers, leaves Constituents: the bitter principle taraxacin, triterpenes (including taraxol and taraxasterol), sterols, inulin, sugars, pectin, glycosides, choline, phenolic acids, asparagine, vitamins, potassium. leaves: lutein, violaxan-thin, and other carotenoids; bitter substance Medicinal Uses & Benefits All parts of the dandelion are used for food and medicine, the roots are roasted and used in herbal decoctions, the leaves and crowns for salads and cooked greens, the flowers for making dandelion wine, and the juice to cure warts and blisters. A complex array of nutrients and phytochemicals are the source of dandelion’s many valuable medicineal properties: l Dandelion leaves provide vitamins A and C, (the vitamin A content is higher than that of carrots) l Dandelion flowers are one of the best sources of lecithin, a nutrient that elevates the brains acetylcholine and may play a role in boosting memory and mental focus. Lecithin is also good for liver problems. l Dandelion root taraxacin, a hepatic stimulant, insulin, as sugar, lacvulin, choline (a basic constiutent of lecithin), phytosterols, (which prevent the body from accumulating cholesterol), and potash, (a diuretic).

The dandelion plant is also a great

Clini c a l t r i a l s c o n f i r m t h e conventional wisdom that Lavender relaxes the body in the presence of pain, most likely by reducing anxiety levels. A calm mental state can makes pain more bearable, lessening it’s impact by reducing the perception of pain. Massage with lavender oil at tender trigger points is reported reduce the pain and tension of fibromyalgia in long term sufferers. Lavender combines well with rosemary to relieve arthritis pain and fibromyalgia. Lavender can be also be used in a massage oil to relieve the pain and arthritic stiffness older dogs source of bone-building nutrients viz., boron, calcium and silicon Acne and skin care Dandelion root helps the body dispose of unwanted skin bacteria. It also stimulates digestion and supports the liver - the major organ that helps rid the body of toxins and excess hormones, including the androgens that trigger acne breakouts.

Dandelion root contains bitter principles that have a tonic effect on the liver and digestive system. It is also a natural diuretic that doesn’t rob the body of potassium. This detoxifying, diuretic action also earns dandelion a place in many weight loss formulations.

In recent studies, Taraxacum officinalis was shown to have a positive effect on weight management.

3. GOLDENROD (Solidago canadensis), Asteraceae Common Uses: congestion, diarrhea, kidney Properties: astringent, carminative Parts Used: flowering tops, leaves Constituents: saponins, flavonoids, tannins, essential oil Medicinal Uses & Benefits The main medical uses for golden rod are urinary and kidney infections and stones; catarrh. The plant has a cleansing action on the kidneys, and a reputation for clearing upper respiratory mucus.

4. STRAWFLOWER (Helichrysum angustifolium), Asteraceae Common Uses: bruises, cellulite, sprains Properties: analgesic, antiinflammatory, aromatic, cytophylactic, depurative Parts Used: flowers Constituents: carotenoids, resin, essential oil, flavonoids, sterol, bitter principle, saponins, mucilage Medicinal Uses & Benefits Straw flower oil is distilled from the flowers. Known for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic and regenerative properties, this remarkable oil is used in many healing formulas from infection and inflammation in respiratory conditions, muscle pain, arthritis to liver problems and as a detoxifier in drug withdrawal.

Imortelle’s ability to stimulate the production of new skin cells makes it popular in facial care for mature skin.

5. LAVENDER (Lavandula spp), Lamiaceae Floriculture Today October 2012

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Flower Therapy Common Uses: acne, air fresheners, anxiety, arthritis, beauty, burns, candida, colds, culinary, cuts , depression, facial, fibromyalgia, gout, headache, hypertension, insect repellent, nausea, pests, pregnancy, rheumatoid arthritis, sleep Properties: analgesic, antiinflammatory, antifungal, antioxidant, antiviral, aromatic, arthritis, cancer, cardic tonic cordial, carminative, cholagogue, cisatrisant cytophylactic, deodorant, diaphoretic/sudorific, diuretic, emmenagogue, hypotensive, insect repellents, muscle relaxant, nervine, parturient, sedative, splenic, vermifuge, vulnerary Parts Used: flowers, leaves and stems Constituents: volatile oil (up to 1.5%, containing linabol, linalyl acetate, lavendulyl acetate, terpinenol, cineole, camphor, borneol, pinene, limonene), tannins, coumarins (coumarin, umbelliferone, hemiarin), flavonoids, triterpenoids, rosemarnic acid Medicinal Uses & Benefits Lavender has some powerful properties for such a gentle, sweet smelling flower. Lavender can lift your spirits, help you sleep, relieve pain, kill germs, heal burns and rashes, and help keep annoying insects at bay. Regular lavender baths are recommended throughout a woman’s pregnancy.

Clinical trials confirm the conventional wisdom that Lavender relaxes the body in the presence of pain, most likely by reducing anxiety levels.

A calm mental state can makes pain more bearable, lessening it’s impact by reducing the perception of pain. Massage with lavender oil at tender trigger points is reported reduce the pain and tension of fibromyalgia in long term sufferers.

Lavender combines well with rosemary to relieve arthritis pain and fibromyalgia.

Lavender can be also be used in a massage oil to relieve the pain and arthritic stiffness older dogs.

Lavender has well regarded skin healing properties as well. It’s effectiveness in treating burns. To make a all purpose remedy for scalds, burns, and sunburns: apply a cloth wet with witch hazel, then apply a few drops of lavender essential oil directly to the burn.

6. LOTUS (Nelumbo nucifera), Nelumbonaceae Parts Used: flower petals and stamens, pods and seeds, leaves Constituents: lotusine, demethyl coclaurine, neferin, and nuciferine.

Medicinal Uses & Benefits The rhizomes and leaves of the lotus are combined with other herbs in China, India and other Asian traditional medicines to treat sunstroke, fever, diarrhoea, and the whole plant is used to treat mushroom poisoning. Lotus flowers are recommened as a cardic tonic, and the stamens are used to treat urinary frequency and premature ejaculations. The flowers have diuretic, astringent, and cooling properties.

7. EVENING PRIMROSE (Oenothera biennis), Onagraceae Common Uses: Cancer, Cholesterol, Colitis, Eczema, Hypertension, Neuralgia, Rheumatoid arthritis Parts Used: oil from seeds Constituents: fatty acids: gamma linolenic 9.2%,linoleic 74.6%,oleic 6.7%, palmitic 6.2% Medicinal Uses & Benefits Evening primrose seeds contain a fragrant oil that plays an important part natural health. The seed oil contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid that the body uses to manufacture a prostaglandin vital to soothing inflammation and supporting the immune system. It also helps keep the blood flowing freely, reduces high blood pressure, plays a role in reducing breast cancers and lowers cholesterol.

Its oil is a prized oil in aromatherapy skin care because of its many health benefits.

8. SAGE (Salvia officinalis), Lamiaceae Common Uses: Air Fresheners, Cellulite, Culinary, Digestion, Facial, Hair, Insect repellent, Memory, Menopause, Menorrhagia, Pests Properties: Analgesic, Antibacterial, Antifungal, Antioxidant, Antiperspirant/Deodorants, Aromatic, Astringent, Cancer, Depurative, Emmenagogue, Nervine Parts Used: Leaves, small stems and flowers Constituents: volatile oils (including thujone, cineole, borneol, linalool, camphors, salvene, pinine), oestrogenic substances, salvin and carnosic acid, flavonoids, phenolic acids, rosemarnic acid, tannins Medicinal Uses & Benefits Sage is an excellent digestive herb, helping to digest meals of meats and fowl it is used to season. It is a valuable remedy for colds and fevers in the New England. It has excellent antibacterial and astringent properties, It is an excellent natural disinfectant and deodorizer, drying perspiration and helping to eliminate body odour. Its extracts are used in personal skin care for its capacity to heal the skin as well. It is a well regarded herb for women and can be especially helpful for relieving the hot flashes of menopause, and slowing heavy menstrual bleeding and is also a good herbal tea for drying up breast milk for weaning. n

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27

Gardening

ROOF GARDENING

Rajesh Saini, Trainer, IHITC, Jaipur

Dr. R H Dahiya, Prof. ABM, Amity University Rajasthan, Jaipur

A

roof garden is any garden on the roof of a building. Besides the decorative benefit, roof plantings may provide food, temperature control, hydrological benefits, architectural enhancement, habitats or corridors for wildlife, and recreational opportunities.

Humans have grown plants atop structures since antiquity. The medieval Egyptian city of Fustat had a number of high-rise buildings that Nasir Khusraw in the early 11th century described as rising up to 14 Stories, with roof gardens on the top story complete with ox-drawn water wheels for irrigating them.

BENEFITS OF ROOF GARDEN n Cooler microclimates n Reduced air temperature (improved comfort) n Reduces heat island affect n Reduced smog n Energy conservation n Reduced CO2 emissions n Reduces AC load n Water Conservation n Water harvesting n Water management (Recycle water) n Water efficient planting n Air pollution control n Improved air quality (increased O2) n Reduced CO2, pollutants n Reduced Dust n Noise pollution control Roof gardens are very beneficial

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reduce the rate and volume of run off.

As cities grow, permeable substrates are replaced by impervious structures such as buildings and paved roads.

Temperature profile of roof garden on a hot summer day(Fig)

in reducing the effects of temperature against roofs without gardens. “If widely adopted, rooftop gardens could reduce the urban heat island, which would decrease smog episodes, problems associated with heat stress and further lower energy consumption.” Aside from this rooftop gardens provide resistance to thermal radiation, rooftop gardens are also beneficial in reducing rain run off. A roof garden can delay run off and

A roof garden is actually very different from a green roof, although the two terms are often and incorrectly used interchangeably. A roof garden is an area that is generally used for recreation, entertaining, and as an additional outdoor living space for the building’s

Gardening residents. It may include planters, plants, dining and lounging furniture, outdoor structures such as pergolas and sheds, and automated irrigation and lighting systems. A roof garden reestablishes the relationship between humans and nature that can be lost in urban environments.

It is different from a green roof in that the considerations are primarily of an aesthetic or recreational nature, whereas a green roof is usually constructed to cover a large area in the most economical and efficient means possible with an emphasis towards improving the insulation or improving the overall energy efficiency of cooling and heating costs within a building. The panels that comprise a green roof are generally no more than a few inches up to a foot in depth, since weight is an important factor when covering an entire roof surface.

The plants that go into a green roof are usually shallow-rooted plants that will tolerate the hot, dry, windy conditions that prevail on most rooftop gardens. With a green roof, “plants layer can shield off as much as 87% of solar radiation while a bare roof receives 100% direct exposure�.

The planters on a roof garden, on the other hand, can generally range anywhere from 6 in up to 3 ft (0.15 to 0.9 m) in depth, depending on the weightbearing capacity of the roof, and would be placed more for aesthetic purposes.

These planters can hold a range of ornamental plants, anything from trees, shrubs, vines, or an assortment of flowers. Since the planters on a roof garden are placed in random fashion, it would be much less likely to provide the high environmental and energy benefits of a green roof.

Rooftop Strategy Factors in selecting plant material are: Design factors that may influence plant selection include: 1) Accessibility to and use of the roof 2) Rain water management objectives 3) Xeriscaping objectives 4) Thermal insulation objectives

SIZE OF ROOF TOP PLANTERS

Enjoy Vegetable growing on Roof top Gardens A large number of vegetable varieties can be grown in suitable containers on roof top gardens in urban areas.

1. Leafy vegetables such as spinach, lettuce, amaranthus, fenugreek, parsely, coriander.

2. All varieties of Gourds such as squash, pumpkin, bitter gourd, bottle gourd.

3. Root vegetables such as raddish, turnip, beet root, carrot 4. Other vegetables such as tomatoes, cherry tomato, onion, garlic, lady finger, pepper, cauliflower, cabbage, broccoli, chilly, brinjal.

5. Spices, Herbs and medicinal plants can also be grown successfully on roof top garden 6. Fruit trees when grown in suitable containers give a perfect combination of beauty and health to the roof top garden concept.

7. Fruit such as lemon, pomegranate, strawberry, papaya, mango, litchi, grapes and oranges can easily be grown. n

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Research Journal

International Journal of Innovative Research

Karnataka Governor Launches Inaugural Issue

R

esearch in horticulture and allied branches is assuming increasing importance in the efforts to provide nutrition and health care to the burgeoning world population, expected to touch 9.6 billion by 2050. Technology generation, dissemination and adoption are equally imperative against the backdrop of declining land and water resources.

Keeping all this in view, the Confederation of Horticulture Associations of India (CHAI), which functions as a forum for collaboration with various national and international associations and provides leadership in horticulture development in the country, has launched a new bi-annual publication, International Journal of Innovative Horticulture, to give wide publicity to latest research in horticulture and allied branches.

The journal was formally launched by Karnataka Governor Mr. Hans Raj Bharadwaj at the Governor’s House in Bangalore on August 23. . CHAI hopes to convert this journal into a quarterly publication in the near future.

The Governor appreciated four decades of service of Dr H P Singh, former Deputy Director General (Horticulture), ICAR and Founder Chairman of CHAI. The Governor expressed confidence that Dr Singh, Editor-in-Chief of the new journal, would continue to serve the country more vigorously though the activities of CHAI. The meeting was attended by nearly 100 people, prominent among them being scientists from Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, professors and officials from University of Horticultural Sciences (UHS), Bagalkot and representatives of private companies.

Director of Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR) Dr A S Siddhu welcomed the guests, while Vice- Chancellor of UHS, Bagalkot, Dr S B Dandin, proposed the vote of thanks.

The meeting concluded with good wishes of various organizations like Indo American Hybrid seeds India Pvt Ltd., Floriculture Today and many dignitaries present.

Earlier, Dr Singh in his address to the select gathering, outlined the goal and objectives of CHAI, established in 2010 after national and international consultations. He said the confederation is committed to furtherance of horticulture research, education and development by bringing organizations and individuals to work together to achieve the goal of technology and development to address issues of national and international concern. The mission of CHAI, he said, is to bring synergy among different horticulture societies and associations, experts and entrepreneurs to encourage effective participation of all stakeholders for accelerating economic growth through technological intervention and human resource development.

The confederation is engaged in a number of activities, including organization of national and international seminars and conferences. It has instituted awards to recognize the services of individuals promoting the cause of horticulture.

The prime objective of the new journal, it was explained,

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Research Journal is communication of mission-oriented fundamental research to various stakeholders and to promote interaction among them.

It welcomes for publication research articles and papers of scientific and practical importance concerning the whole gamut of horticulture ---- fruits, vegetables, flowers, plantation crops, spices, tuber crops, mushroom, medicinal and aromatic plants, landscape gardening, apiculture, and so on.

Besides research articles, the journal would cover case studies, commentaries, opinion, policy issues as well as book reviews.

Mr. S. Jafar Naqvi, Chief Editor, Floriculture Today & President, Indian Flowers and Ornamental Plants Welfare Association (iFlora) thanked and congratulated Dr. H P Singh, on the occassion for their continued guidance, and extended Media Today Group’s every possible support to this initiative of CHAI. The editorial & business office of CHAI is located in New Delhi. —T V Satyanarayanan

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33

Cut Flower

Lisanthus – A Beautiful Cut Flower – P. Selvakumari, N. Deepa Devi and V. Ponnuswami

L

isianthus (Eustoma grandiflorum), also known as prairie gentian, large flower Campanulaceae, Gentianaceae prairie gentian is a biennial herb is native to North America.

Currently, Eustoma flower auction market has become the Netherlands one of the top ten cut flowers. Eustoma variety, beautiful color and long life of their cut flowers have broad application prospects. Eustoma variety selection of species, about hundreds of varieties, divided according to color white, pink, yellow, pink, purple, flower-shaped divided according to cup, bell-shaped, funnel-shaped, etc., based on a single sub-petal flap, Double, etc., based on growth period divided into Early, Late.

Growing environment Lisianthus may be produced in open fields, in low-tech greenhouses that simply protect the plants from wind and rain or in climate controlled greenhouses. For best results, grow Lisianthus with a minimum temperature above 15°C. Crop quality is greatest if the daytime high temperature is less than 25°C, although plants will tolerate much higher temperatures. While open field production is possible, most growers in moderate climates grow Lisianthus in open sided greenhouses.

These greenhouses provide protection from rainstorms that can devastate a crop in flower. Lisianthus seedlings

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grown in small seedling cells can make good growth after transplanting. Avoid delayed transplanting and crowding in the seedling tray which could permanently stunt the plants. Allow 60 to 75 days from transplanting to flowering. Spacing in the plant bed of 6 x 6 inches is common. At 9 x 9 inches plants produce more branches, but give lower overall yield. Use horizontal 6inch square netting to help keep plants upright. Pinching the plant apex to leave 6 lower leaves has not increased yields and delayed flowering by about 10 days.

Production in full sun can result in 60% shorter stems than the same varieties grown in greenhouses or in outdoor shade houses. In regions that require heating, successful Lisianthus production requires both space heating and soil surface heating. Attempting to produce cut flower Lisianthus with only one of the two methods will mean a guaranteed crop failure. Space heating heats the air around the crop and can be done with forced air heaters or finned heating pipes suspended above the crop. Soil surface heating requires a hot water boiler system. The water should circulate over the surface of the beds in 2 cm tubes. Water temperature should be no higher than 40°C. Use a circulating pump that will provide a complete circuit of water in six minutes. Under cooler environmental conditions, ground bed heating systems are recommended

from April through September. Soil temperature should not drop below 15°C. Soil conditions Lisianthus are very sensitive to high temperature, high and low temperature would lead to reduced fertility in the late internode, and the phenomenon appeared clustered, reducing the quality of cut flowers. General daytime temperature is kept at 20 -25oC, overnight at 15 – 18oC. In addition, the daily exposure time to 12 hours.

The pH should be neutral to mildly acid (6.5 – 7). Moderate to high levels of organic matter are required. Good levels of phosphorous and potassium is recommended for flower size and stem strength.

Bed preparation Bed preparation prior to planting is the most important part of Lisianthus production. First, test the soil. Lisianthus grows best with a pH between 6.3 and 7.0, higher than many other cut flower crops. Lisianthus also grows best with high calcium levels and adequate phosphorous. Adjust the pH and add calcium and phosphorous prior to planting. Generally, optimum pre plant preparation includes spading and rototilling the ground beds at least once a year, prior to soil pasteurization.

Be sure bed preparation loosens any hardpan that forms below the planting

Cut Flower bed. Lisianthus is very susceptible to soil borne diseases. New ground beds may not require treatment, but beds known to be infected should be treated to eliminate disease. Growers report success with both steam sterilization and methyl bromide. Some growers form beds prior to treatment, while others wait until after pasteurization. Disinfect all equipment used in bed preparation or planting to prevent reintroducing diseases. Once the ground beds have been pasteurized, drip irrigation, soil heating and support netting should be arranged. Highest quality stems are produced using two layers of support netting. Generally, netting with 15 cm x 15 cm or 15 cm x 20 cm spacing is used in cut flower Lisianthus production.

Growing Systems and Scheduling Transplanting seedlings with 4 to 6 leaf is appropriate. Before transplanting pH 6.5 -7.0, choose the soil, organic fertilizer and phosphate fertilizer as basal fertilizer, deep ploughing is necessary. To select a robust growth when transplanting, select the stunted roots, or disease-free seedlings.

Transplanting seedlings to avoid root damage. 3 days after transplanting, water 1 to 3 times a day to keep growing media moist. Temperature controlled at below 25 night temperature is 15 – 20oC With protected cropping, transplanting in June – October will give the best results. After establishment the plants may “sit” until the soil warms up when they will grow very quickly to flower in late November – December.

Under field conditions transplanting when the weather warms appreciably is recommended. This produces the first flowers from November to January.

The crop should be treated as an annual although it can be a short lived perennial. If transplanted in December - January a first cut can be taken in the autumn and the plants cut to 3 nodes above the ground and covered with straw to over winter. The Spring cut could then be taken at the earliest and would probably be in September October depending on soil temperatures.

Propagation Lisianthus has seed weight of 40 - 50mg light seeds, seeds can be sown on

the soil surface directly, without casing in order to facilitate seed germination, but to pay attention to maintaining surface soil moist to prevent seed drying.

Lisianthus has tiny seeds, and is very slow to reach transplant stage. Sowing in late January in a greenhouse will result in transplantable seedlings in early May. Growers that direct seed should insist on pelleted seed, to make the seed visible to the eye. Seed should be sown on the surface and not be buried. Cell trays with 144 to 228 cells have given good germination and seedling size.

To avoid long greenhouse seedling period, consider buying seedlings from commercial sources. After germination at 70 to 75o F, grow on at 50 to 65o F to prevent rosetting, the inhibition of stem elongation brought about by warmer temperatures. Rosetting is prevalent in some varieties at temperatures above 72oF during the seedling growth stage, until the fifth leaf pair has formed.

Transplanting Transplant seedlings when they are young and actively growing, (around the 4th-6th true leaf stage) in order to avoid

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Cut Flower stem rot, take care not to bury the plants too deep. Setting the plugs a little “high” in the flower bed will help to guard against rhizoctonia. To ensure a healthy start, maintain high relative humidity for 10 days after transplanting and do not let the soil dry out.

Watering Lisianthus irrigation requires careful attention. Excessive irrigation increases plant susceptibility to soil borne fungal pathogens. On the other hand, drought stress can cause premature flower initiation resulting in short, weak stems.

Generally, the lower the light and temperature, the less water the plants require. Most growers establish the crop with overhead irrigation, then switch to drip irrigation after roots are established in the beds. Lisianthus also responds positively to overhead irrigation during periods of high heat and light. Increasing humidity in the greenhouse with an early afternoon overhead irrigation can increase stem length in regions with high heat and light. Avoid high humidity and overhead irrigation after buds have formed however, since botrytis can develop.

Spacing Ideal plant density is a function

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of available light. Outdoor light that averages above 65,000 lux at mid day is considered high light. Between 32,000 to 65,000 lux is moderate and less than 32,000 lux is low light intensity.

Typical planting density for singles is 84 plants/m², plant doubles at 64 plants/m². Non-pelleted Lisianthus seeds are very small (19,000 seeds per gram), and seedling growth is slow. For these reasons, most Lisianthus growers purchase plug seedlings from a specialist propagator. Transplant the seedlings before they become root-bound. Any growth restriction in the seedling stage will result in decreased stem quality of the mature plant. Do not damage roots during transplanting. Damaged roots can result in poor growth, delayed maturity or even plants that fail to grow.

Seedlings planted more deeply than they were growing in the plug tray are prone to disease.

Lighting Lisianthus growth, crop time and flower quality are affected by light intensity and day length. Response varies with variety. Highest plant quality results from plants grown with the maximum amount of light. In regions with low light intensity, supplemental

high intensity lighting may be necessary to produce a quality crop. Lisianthus growers debate the effect of day length modification. Those who have experimented with it feel that under low light conditions, supplemental lighting encourages stem elongation and flower initiation. Growers report that solid set or cyclic lighting, day extension or night interruption have all resulted in high quality Lisianthus. In general, growers have experienced good results with 16 hour day lengths. Dutch growers use HID lighting, while growers in California have had success using one row of 150-watt incandescent lights spaced 3 m apart for each 4.5 m wide greenhouse section.

Fertility of soil Lisianthus grows best with high fertility levels in the soil. Some growers broadcast a 3 month slow release fertilizer over the soil surface immediately after transplant. Other growers begin liquid fertilization immediately following transplant.

In general, nitrogen should be predominantly in the nitrate form, potassium should be equal to nitrogen.

Feed with liquid fertilizer at 200 ppm N and K at every irrigation or every other

Cut Flower irrigation. Use supplemental calcium during production unless the soil has a high calcium content. Calcium

CINDERELLA DOUBLE IVORY

CINDERELLA DOUBLE BLUE

CINDERELLA DOUBLE PINK

CINDERELLA DOUBLE YELLOW

SAPPHIRE BLUE CHIP

SAPPHIRE PINK RIM

Cadence Yellow single flowering lisiantus

nitrate may be used as one component of the fertilizer solution to provide calcium.

Vulcan Pink Picotee lisianthus

Flowering During periods of high light and warm temperatures, a light shade on the greenhouse roof is recommended to avoid fading the flowers. Stems are usually harvested when one or more flowers are open. There is a longer period of time between the opening of the first and second flower than from the opening of the second and third flower.

Therefore, some growers remove the first flower and sell it for small bud vases and then harvest the stems when the second and third flowers open.

Unfolded flowers

Harvest Lisianthus are not known to be sensitive to ethylene.

However, pulsing with 10% sucrose for 24 hours after harvest increases

Arena 1 Green’ is a double lisianthus. The frilly petal edges make the flowers look fuller.

vase life. If possible, flowers should be harvested in the mornings, when it is cool. Remove field heat by transferring harvested bunches to coolers to optimise postharvest life. Do not ship flowers that have not had field heat removed.

Postharvest Handling Lisianthus has outstanding vase life, commonly up to 14 days or more.

Commercial vase life solutions stimulate bud development and aid vase life.

Harvest Lisianthus when one or more

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Cut Flower flowers are open. Harvest in the mornings, when flower and plant tissues are cool.

Remove field heat by transferring harvested bunches to coolers to optimize post harvest life. Always use clean buckets with fresh cool water for harvested Lisianthus. Do not ship flowers that have not had field heat removed. Pulsing with 3% sucrose for 24 hours after harvest increases vase life.

Crop cycle Crop cycle from transplant to harvest is related to variety and environment. In general, Lisianthus production requires up to 15 weeks under low light and temperatures, but can be as fast as 12 weeks with high light and optimum temperature.

While stem quality is highest at lower temperatures, crop time will be longer.

Variety selection Varietal selections are divided between single and double flowering Lisianthus.

In general, the European and Japanese cut flower markets prefer single flowering Lisianthus, while the United States market has tended towards double flowering varieties. Colour preferences also differ between markets. The most important colour in Europe is dark blue, while in Japan the white with blue rim bicolour

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dominates the market. Other colours include rose-pink, white, purple, blue blush, pink blush, bicolour pink, yellow, ivory and various petal shades.

To date, most Lisianthus breeding has focused on introduction of new colours and flower forms. Breeders are developing Lisianthus to address some of the production difficulties in existing varieties. As with Antirrhinum, breeding for year-round production is a focus.

New varieties have been introduced with better seedling vigour, stem quality (stem length and caliper), crop time, flowering uniformity and resistance to rosetting and disease.

Insects Lisianthus are not particularly susceptible to insects, but can be attacked by aphids, leaf miner, lepidopterous larvae, thrips or whitefly. A good scouting effort that includes walking all benches (especially the ends) can prevent diseases.

Initiating a spray program as soon as the problem occurs

will usually eliminate the pest quickly.

Controlling a major outbreak can be quite difficult.

Diseases As with insect control, it is imperative that growers scout all their Lisianthus beds regularly to find infections before they become severe.

Botrytis: Common with high humidity, causes flower and leafspots can cause a tan stem canker that can kill the plant.

Fusarium: Common in contaminated soil, cause root, crown or stem rot or vascular wilt. Root rot causes soft, brown to black roots. Handling or splashing of soil spreads the disease. Sanitation is the best control. Vascular wilt is more severe in conditions of high temperature, high ammonium, low calcium and low boron.

Fusarium first affects the vascular system then eventually grows through to the surface of the stem. The first symptom is plant wilt, although bleached foliage is also seen.

Curvularia: Can cause light tan spots on Lisianthus foliage and flowers.

Unfortunately, this fungal disease develops fastest at the moderate temperature (24째C) best for Lisianthus growth.

Pythium: Common in contaminated soil. This fungus causes a root rot that results in the outer root surface separating from the inner portion.

Slight infections result in decreased plant growth, severe infections result in wilt and plant death.

Rhizoctonia: A soilborne fungus

Cut Flower that can cause a crown rot, often seen after planting. Peronospora (Downy Mildew): Causes light brown or greywhite powdery growth beginning on the undersides of leaves.

Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus/ Impatiens Necrotic Wilt Virus (TSWV/ INSV): Causes chlorotic mottling of the foliage and necrotic regions on the stem, spread by thrips.

Bean Yellow Mosaic Virus (BYMV): Results in leaf curl, chlorosis or flower break, Spread by aphids.

Tobacco Mosaic Virus (TMV): causes mottling of the foliage. It is spread by contact with the virus, not insects. Tobacco products, such as cigarettes, can contain the virus, which is easily transmitted on workers’ hands.

Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Virus (TYLCV): Causes distorted growth, cup-shaped leaves, swelling of veins on the undersides of the leaves and lack of flowering. Can be spread by Bemisia tabaci, the Sweet Potato Whitefly. All virus produce more severe symptoms when present in combination.

Nutrient toxicity / deficiency Lisianthus nutrition can be summed up

in three important points: 1. Maintain high pH (relative to most crops), from 6.3 to 7.0; 2. Maintain high calcium levels in the substrate, and 3. Keep all nutrients high in the substrate.

The most serious nutritional problem with Lisianthus is a general lack of major nutrients. The only symptom of this deficiency is reduced growth, which is not readily apparent unless well fertilized plants are grown for comparison. Symptoms such as foliar chlorosis do not appear until growth has already been limited. For this reason, routine substrate analysis and fertilizer applications are necessary.

Calcium deficiency can cause tip burn of young foliage, bud abortion and poor stem strength. Calcium deficiency can occur even with adequate calcium levels in the soil if the air is very humid, preventing translocation of calcium in the plant. Foliar applications of calcium fertilizers may be needed. Low pH can result in poor growth and weak stems.

Zinc toxicity appears as symptoms of interveinal chlorosis progressing to

bleached foliage, it is also more common with low pH. Rosetting Rosetted plants have a cluster of leaves with very short internodes on the stem. The most common cause of rosetting is high temperatures sometime during young plant production. Susceptibility to rosetting varies by variety and can be affected by conditions during seed production.

Plants that exhibit rosetting have been induced to grow through applications of gibberellic acids. Identify if rosetted plants are present three to four weeks after transplanting, then begin gibberellin applications as necessary.

Growers have experimented with rates from 10 to 200 ppm, with one or two spray applications. Although rosetted plants will usually begin to grow eventually, the stem quality is often reduced, time to flower is unacceptably long and the results are unacceptable for commercial production.

(The authors belong to the Dept. of Vegetable crops, HC & RI, Periyakulam, Dept. of Horticulture, AC & RI, Madurai, and HC & RI, Periyakulam)

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Pre-event Report

2012

New Products for

Horticulture to be Unveiled A

representative group of exhibitors will unveil the new products during the Horti Fair to be held in the Amsterdam RAI from 30 October to 2 November. The Horti Fair is the biggest international trade show for Technology, Innovation and Inspiration in Horticulture.

For the trade journalists, they held this preview in TomatoWorld, so that they could better inform their readers about the upcoming Horti Fair. For exhibitors, this was an extra service included in the communications mix provided by the largest international horticultural trade show. Sixteen exhibitors presented a total of more than thirty new products and services.

Anthura B.V. (Stand no. 10.0305) will be presenting at least five new pot plants (anthurium and phalaenopsis varieties) at the Horti Fair as well as a new anthurium variety for cut flower production. This breeding company has the greatest expectations for its new pot plant, Anthurium Andreanum Nubira®, a large-flowering red anthurium particularly suitable for 14-cm pots but also appropriate for 17-cm pots. Its unique flower colour, attractive size proportions between plant and pot, and its reasonably good tolerance to low temperatures are extra pluses.

The SuprimAir greenhouse from Certhon (Stand no. 11.0302) is a unique greenhouse concept for the international professional greenhouse horticulture industry. With its ingenious combination of greenhouse, ventilation, cooling and control, it is now possible to create an ideal climate all year round – and do so right down to the square metre, 24 hours a day. Ideal temperature and relative humidity are combined with low energy consumption and a reduced risk of disease occurrence.

Climeco Engineering BV (Stand no.

11.0412) is introducing a new service: Climate monitoring and advice. Using

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this advice system results in a more homogeneous climate, and, thus, a reduction in energy consumption. Its ability to prevent damp wet areas from occurring in the greenhouse will also reduce losses, provide higher yields and improve quality.

AQUA DECO SPRAY from DECOH B.V., Tiel (Stand no. 10.0707 ) is the first water-based decorative spray paint available to the floriculture sector. It comes in 51 different colours, provides a satin-gloss finish, and was especially developed for use on plant materials such as succulents, freshly cut flowers and decorative fruit. Another advantage provided by this water-based spray paint is that it will not mask the fragrances of flowers, plants and fruit.

Fides B.V. (Agribio Group, Stand no. 10.0306) will be introducing its new Impatiens NG Tamarinda® Max series (bedding/garden/terrace) at this year’s Horti Fair. This series makes the perfect choice for substantial, vigourous plants in large pots and hanging baskets. The plants in this series are characterised by large flowers, a luxurious growth habit, and good heat tolerance. And they also come in seven colours: Lavender, Sweet Pink, Red, Pink, Orange, Burgundy and White.

The HortiMaX CX500 from HortiMaX B.V. (Stand no. 11.0502), which features a modular structure, is a process computer that controls both the greenhouse climate and irrigation to make it the ideal solution for small and large companies. Any extension projects are then easy to realise. It provides the perfect solution when applying ‘Dutch’ horticultural technology abroad proves difficult due to the fact that this technology is often not suitable for the local climate conditions or the user’s level of knowledge or culture. After all, every climate and country has its own optimum solution.

Energy savings and higher yields:

this is what Klimrek Producten BV (Stand no. 09.0202) promises with its RS Mover. The idea here is to prolong propagation. By placing plants closer together on these special trellises during the early stage of cultivation, the grower has to heat only part of the greenhouse.

This provides an energy savings of 10% a year. Meanwhile, in the other part of the greenhouse, it might be possible (depending on the choice of crop) to achieve a higher yield by allowing the crop there to produce longer.

KP Holland (Stand no. not yet known) will be presenting its Kalanchoe Taranta™ Pretty Wild. Taranta™ is characterised by its uniquely serrated, relatively narrow leaves combined with an umbel covered in double-flowering florets. The shape of the plant and its name, Taranta™, emphasise the exciting effect this series will have on consumers.

This series also responds to the trend and demand for a ‘wild’, ‘primitive’, ‘natural’ look. Taranta™ is available in 6 colours and is suitable for 12-cm and 7-cm pots.

During the new products preview for the trade press, KUBO Tuinbouwprojecten B.V. (Stand no.

11.0202) announced three new products: two are improvements on the Ultra Clima concept. The Kubo W roof system has been updated as well: from now on, this greenhouse roof can also have a roof bar provided with rubber on either three or four sides. This will ensure less damage to the glass and a reduction in both energy consumption and waterlogging.

Logiqs Agro International (Stand no.

09.0806) has improved its own shuttle for the internal transport of containers. This new version - the 2D Shuttle – can travel over both a pipe rail and a conveyor belt.

Because the shuttle can move in two directions, a large part of the greenhouse can be automated. The wireless shuttle can pull containers forward as well as

Pre-event Report tip them so that they can be weighed to calculate evaporation.

Modiform BV (Stand no. 08.0301), worked with Prestige Plants (a breeding and propagation company), a substrate supplier and a plug supplier to develop a new plug tray for paper plugs. Because the holes in this tray are recessed almost 1 cm from the bottom, the plugs sit higher in the tray. Drainage is also improved.

This means that these trays can be placed on a wet or uneven surface with no resulting problems.

The Double Slip-In from Peter Dekker Installaties BV (PDI, Stand no. 11.0202) means that click-attaching screens is a thing of the past. The guiding profiles can be mounted quickly and easily to the screen profile and the trellis trus.

Replacing a screen can be done much faster: in just one day. Furthermore, the screen fits straighter in the profile; once closed, it blocks out even less light.

During the new products preview for the trade press, Priva B.V. (Stand no. 11.0604) presented its new company slogan: ‘The best solution for any ambition’. With this slogan, this company in De Lier wants to indicate that it is helping growers worldwide to take the next step in operating their business. In coming years, Priva will be increasing its knowledge and training centres to ten that will be distributed over various continents.

Vostermans Ventilation B.V. (Stand

no. 11.0509) worked with Wageningen UR to develop a new vertical fan. The aerodynamically shaped outflow hood of this Multifan V-FloFan enhances air flow to reduce the number of fans needed.

Because the height of the Multifan VFloFan is adjustable, it can be used for more crops and with a wider variety of cultivation systems. The fan has been tested on a number of crops, including cucumbers, and will soon be tested on tomatoes.

With theModular Conveyor System from WPS Horti Systems (Stand no. 09.0102) growers can create and modify their internal conveyor system themselves. This system consists of separate transport elements that can be interconnected. WPS Horti Systems can thus be compared to Lego blocks.

It is also possible to add applications to the system such as ones for conducting counts or visualisations, to introduce different routings, and to operate the system using a smartphone.

The ZAPlus from Ziehl-Abegg Benelux B.V. (Stand no. 11.0614) ensures that fans will use 20% less energy or that a fan set at the same speed will increase air flow by 15%. Its plastic blades direct air pressure more effectively to give the fan a greater capacity. It thus takes less power to blow air into the greenhouse.

In addition, the ZAPlus is around 8 kg lighter than comparable systems. n

Eleven nominations for Innovation Award

F

or this year’s Horti Fair Innovation Award, the international jury has made eleven nominations. The winner would be announced on October 30, the first day of the four-day trade show in Amsterdam RAI. The winner of the prestigious Innovation Award will get a cheque of € 2500.

The jury finds that despite the turbulence in the global economy, suppliers in horticulture continue to innovate and invest for a better future. In total, more than a hundred new products and services would be introduced in the coming Horti Fair -- the international horticultural trade show for technology, innovation and inspiration.

Striking concepts President Geert van Oosterhout

(Director LTO Groeiservice) of the international jury said, “Many striking applications have been developed on the concept of the closed greenhouse and The New Cultivation (HNT). In addition, the focus is on saving energy, and increasing efficiency, production and quality.”

The jury list also includes Jeroen van Buren (market group manager Pot at DLV Plant BV), Heinrich Dressler (Gb Das Magazin für Zierpflanzenbau, Germany), Cor of Kaay (vegetable grower), Linda Kałużny-Pinon (Culture LEGUMIERE, France), Frank Kempkes (technology researcher at Wageningen UR Greenhouse Horticulture), Leo Marcelis (Professor of Crop Improvement in energy efficient greenhouses at Wageningen UR), Eric Moor (pot grower) and Steven Vale Floriculture Today October 2012

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Pre-event Report (Commercial Greenhouse Grower Magazine, UK).

“Horticulture continues to develop and we have more cooperation so to identify innovation. This is also due to the high investment level,’’ said Van Oosterhout.

The nominees AVAG (Stand No. 11.0110) - Next Generation Semi-closed greenhouse Through poster presentations to participants at the Horti Fair it is possible to see what results are achieved with a test of the concept of the Next Generation SGK (semi-closed greenhouse) in nursery Lans in Rilland. The monitoring of the test is performed by WUR Greenhouse Horticulture and there is a support group formed by some growers with experience in the field of semi-closed cultivation.

Participants in the project are PLJ Bomb (Naaldwijk), Certhon (Poeldijk), Van Dijk Heating (Bunnik), Glascom Horticulture (Rijswijk), Technokas (De Lier), Group VB (De Lier) and Zantingh (Rijsenhout).

Eagle-Sosef (Honselersdijk) and Priva (De Lier) have supported the project and for the financial realization is a contribution received from the THIS Fund from Rabobank Westland.

Jury: The first results are encouraging and confirm the expectations of the project.

The Next Generation Semi-closed greenhouse can offer an important contribution to the further sustainability of the horticultural world.’’

Certhon (booth No. 11.0302) - SuprimAir greenhouse For international professional horticulture, Certhon has developed a unique greenhouse concept: the SuprimAir greenhouse. By an ingenious combination of cash, ventilation, cooling and control it is possible to an ideal year round climate. The ideal temperature and relative humidity are combined with low energy consumption and lower disease pressure.

Jury: Within the concept SuprimAir, recent technical innovations in various areas integrated. A clear example of highly targeted development.

Climeco Engineering (booth No. 11.0412) - ClimecoScan By measuring with a network of wireless sensors, real-time insights are

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obtained about the equality of the climate in the greenhouse. A network of wireless sensors, access to the data via a server (in the cloud), combined with data from the climate computer and presentation through a graphical analysis program is linked to a personal approach.

Jury: New to this service, Climeco is combination of innovative technologies, not seen before.

Exotic Plant bvba (booth No. 10.0208) - Vriesea Spica pot A successful newcomer among the multi flowers, this plant develops easily about 5 dark pink flowers. In combination with the fine, lavish and dark green leaves, we have a popular houseplant. Spica is 60 cm high and the best result is obtained in pot 14.

Jury: An addition to the range of bromeliads.

Van der Hoeven (booth No. 11.0610) - Modular This greenhouse concept for virtually any situation; a tailored and economically feasible solution, always starting the lower power consumption, higher CO2 concentrations, higher light transmission, lower pesticide use, optimal climate control and higher production under sustainable food and safe conditions.

Jury: The ability to modular construction enhances the economic feasibility of this concept. More can be developed from the customer requirements.

HortiMaX BV (stand No. 11.0502) - HMX CX500 HMX is for every climate and country-specific solutions with the HMX CX500 process computer. This computer, which has both climate and irrigation control, can be adapted to all types of greenhouses, climatic and knowledge levels of users.

Jury: The modular design, which allows for small and large businesses a solution available for multiple countries, climates and growers is an example of customer focus.

Climbing frame (position No. 09.0202) - RS Mover This gives 10% energy savings per year.

Jury: A smart application of an existing idea.

KUBO Horticultural Projects BV (stand No. 11.0202) - Ultra Clima ® V3

While in the air handling units in the previous Ultra Clima ® greenhouse, there were two radial fans, the current air handling units have only a large radial fan. As a result, this drastically reduces the size. .

Jury: The main advantages of the Ultra Clima V3 are the light gain at the end wall --- a larger crop area and lower investment than its predecessor.

Maurice Productions BV (stand No. 11.0412) - Air & Energy greenhouse with LT-heating With the Air & Energy greenhouse, it is now possible not only to heat but also to ventilate. With the trunk system was hitherto not possible at higher temperatures to blow. Using the afterheater in the trunk, a higher temperature is evenly blown.

Jury: An example of further development, which thanks to LT (Low Temperature) heating, the efficiency of combustion is increased. In addition, advantages are in applications of residual and geothermal.

Peter Dekker Installations (PDI) (stand No. 11.0202) - Double Slip-In When Double Slip-in system operates, the guide profiles in an ingenious way and is withdrawn simultaneously attached to the display profile and the lattice. This is in contrast to the preexisting slip-in system in which the cloth prior to drawing the profiles in the greenhouse had to be assembled.

Jury: The work-friendly way of assembling and very small cloth package were decisive for this nomination.

Sercom Control and Environmental Monitoring Systems (EMS) BV (stand No. 08.0305) - Air Monitoring Besides the traditional parameters temperature, humidity and light can be controlled by air in the greenhouse. This is a new step in the measurement and control of plant quality.

Jury: This combination tool (MACView Greenhouse Gas Analyser and SERCOM climate computer) sends less use of energy and provides added value to the quality of the crop.

The jury would assess all the nominations on October 29 and announce the result the next day, said Van Oosterhout, pointing out how new cultivation systems are becoming increasingly complex, thanks to the n advancing technology.

Research

Plant Breeding Using Mutation Techniques – Atul Batra and B.K.Banerji

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utation is described as a sudden phenotypic change in a character of an individual, not due to crossing or segregation up to an alteration in the macro-molecule of DNA (where it remains open, whether the alteration leads to a change in gene function or not).

Mutation breeding Breeding method has been practiced since the early human civilization and selection was the first method of breeding, adding the criteria of suitability for man’s use (e.g. larger seed, better taste, easier harvest ability) to those of natural adaptation, fitness and offspring.

It has been said, that the ultimate source of all heritable variation to select from are mutations. But such a statement leaves open, where the genes to start with and the genetic code came from.

Recombination of genes can provide additional genetic variation, if differences exist not only between various genes, but also in form of alleles of particular genes of prospective recombinants. Such alleles derive from mutations. Using mutants in cross breeding did not require in depth knowledge about mutations, because the mutated trait is the object of want. But when the mutant trait is not inherited as expected, the breeder may begin to think about the actual mutational event that led to the mutant phenotype.

Plant breeding Plant breeding requires genetic variation of useful traits for crop improvement. Mutagenic agents, such as radiation and certain chemicals, then can be used to induce mutations and generate genetic variations from which desired mutants may be selected.

Mutation induction has become a proven way of creating variation within a crop variety. It offers the possibility of inducing desired attributes that either cannot be found in nature or have been lost during evolution. When no gene, or genes, for resistance to a particular disease, or for tolerance to stress, can be found in the available gene pool, plant breeders have no obvious alternative but to attempt mutation induction. Treatment with mutagens alters genes or breaks chromosomes.

Gene mutations occur naturally as errors in deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) replication. Most of these errors are repaired, but some may pass the next cell division to become established in the plant offspring as spontaneous mutations. Although mutations observed in a particular gene are rare, there are probably 100000 genes in a cell of a higher plant. This means that every plant may carry one or more spontaneous mutations into the next generation.

Gene mutations without phenotypic (visible) expressions are usually not recognized. Consequently, genetic variation appears rather limited, and researchers have to resort to mutation induction. There are no other economic ways of altering genes, except to wait a long time for spontaneous mutations to occur. Artificial induction of mutations by ionizing radiation dates back to the beginning of the 20th century. But it took about 30 years to prove that such changes could be used in plant breeding.

Initial attempts to induce mutations in plants mostly used X-rays: later, at the dawn of the “Atomic Age”, gamma and neutron radiation were employed as these types of ionizing radiations became readily available from newly established nuclear research centers. Major efforts were devoted during this initial phase of mutation induction to define optimal treatment conditions for reproducibility.

Research focused on changing “random” mutation induction into a more directed mutagenesis to obtain more desirable and economically useful mutations.

However, it did not lead to the desired alterations in the mutant spectrum.

Limitations were the concomitant increase of plant injury with increasing

radiation dose and the low frequency of economically useful mutations. This led researchers to find potentially better mutagens. As a result, new methods of radiation treatment, as well as chemical agents with mutagenic properties, were found. Plant biotechnology breeding for improved plant cultivar s is based on two principles: (1) Genetic variation (2) Selection The process is extremely laborious and time consuming with high inputs of intellectual and manual work. However, the development of plant cell and tissue culture over the last 20 years has made it possible to transfer part of the breeding work from field to laboratory conditions.

Extensive research has resulted in new areas of plant breeding, namely “plant biotechnology” and “genetic engineering”. They are based on cellular totipotency or the ability to regenerate whole, flowering plants from isolated organs (meristems), pieces of tissue, individual cells and protoplasts.

It seems unlikely, that induced mutations used successfully for variety development affected essential structural genes common to almost all forms of living creatures and preserved over millions of years. It seems also unlikely, that the mutations concern any other gene which assumed during the course of evolution an essential position in the gene network of the particular species, because such mutations would have resulted in loss of vigor and probably death (e.g. chlorophyll mutations). The mutations used by plant breeders most likely concern those genes, which are involved in genetic/environmental interaction, regulating the response to triggers by signalling activation or inhibition to other genes responsible for particular reactions. These regulating genes should be the ones categorized usually as major genes because of their predominating role, in contrast to regulated genes which should be many, each of relatively minor effect on the phenotype (usually classified as minor genes or polygenes).

(The authors are from the Botanic Garden CSIRNBRI, Rana Pratap Marg, Lucknow)

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News

Exhibitor-growers happy!

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he second edition of Expo Flora Russia closed its doors now concluding satisfactory results for most national and international participants. Especially the exhibiting flower growers were satisfied with the number of existing and new business contacts they made during the three day event, but also the other exhibitors expressed to be happy with the results.

All important importers from the Moscow region came to see what was on display, but also importers from other cities, states and countries were visiting during one or more of the exhibition days. Furthermore importers

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and wholesalers from other states and countries, s u c h a s Siberia and Ukraine, were present.

The following growers and breeders were among the winners of the different quality awards: In the Best Grower Quality Competition Bronze was awarded to Podosinki from Russia with the variety “Miss Piggy”, Silver to Nevado Ecuador from Ecuador with “Moody Blues”, Gold to Rosaprima from Ecuador with “Deep Purple” and Platinum to Jaroma Roses from Colombia with “Mondial”.

In the Best Breeders Quality

Competition Bronze was awarded to NIRP from Italy from with the variety “Blueberry”, Silver for Interplant Roses from Holland with “Explorer”, Gold for Meilland International from France with “Matilda” and Platinum was for Olij Breeding from Holland with “Deep Purple”.

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News

Biologists create body clock timetable inspired by flower clock theory Dutch Rose Breeder introduces the first guide book to spray roses

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utch Rose breeder Interplant Roses in Leersum, Holland, introduces the first guide book to spray roses. This English language reference book, in handy A5 format with ring binder, has been compiled especially for the benefit of international flower wholesalers and florists. The handbook presents an overview of 61 different, currently available varieties of spray roses classified by colour. Practical information about stem lengths, vase life and VBN code is provided for each cultivar.

International market leader Interplant Roses foresees a great future for spray roses. Director Robert Ilsink said that wholesalers, florists and also consumers are discovering the great potential of spray roses. In the last decade the quality of spray roses has improved enormously. From far from perfect in the past they are now superior in every respect.

Also, their popularity is growing fast. Internationally, spray roses are increasingly being used in mono bouquets, supermarket bouquets, mixed bouquets, and also in exclusive flower arrangements.

Trends have played parts in the rise of the spray rose. The look of abundance and simplicity is finding favour with today’s consumers. The new spray roses not only have larger blooms, but the blooms open wide and hold. With 6 to 7 large, open blooms per stem, it takes relatively few stems of spray roses to yield a lavish display.

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team of Japanese biologists has published a paper revealing how an 18th century Swede’s theory of using flowers’ opening and closing patterns to tell the time inspired their “metabolite timetable” of the human body clock.

Hiroki Ueda of the Riken Centre for Developmental Biology suggested that Swedish biologist Carl Linnaeus’ 1751 theory could be applied to the circadian rhythm back in 2004 -- Linnaeus’ theory introduced the notion that, since certain flowers open and close at specific times of the day, planting many different species would create a collective garden that reads like a clock. Since the circadian clock is dictated by the rise and fall of certain molecules in the body -- which in turn dictate things like how tired we are by altering hormone and brain activity -- Ueda proposed that by plotting out enough of these molecule behaviours and comparing them, a timetable of the human body clock could be plotted and an individual’s metabolite levels compared against it to quickly find out their individual schedule.

By 2004 Ueda had proved the method worked on mice genes, and by 2009, mice metabolites. In a study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences he has now revealed the strategy can successfully plot out the internal body clock of any human individual (they differ widely from person to person).

The discovery has huge implications for the field of chronotherapeutics, where medication is administered to patients according to their internal body clock. Some studies have shown that altering chemotherapy drug delivery in accordance with a patient’s disease cycle can improve how their body responds to treatment.

In the paper “Human blood metabolite timetable indicates internal body time”, Ueda and his team explain how they trialled the theory with six volunteers over a two week period at a sleep lab. Conditions were carefully controlled, including light and room temperature, and the subjects were not allowed to know the time but told when to eat and sleep. Every two hours, blood samples were retrieved

from the subjects via a catheter. On day one and the final day of the study, each participant was asked to spend 39 hours in a reclining chair.

The team then compared samples taken during the first 39 hours from the three volunteers whose rhythms exhibited the most similarities and found 4,000 altered molecules, with 58 demonstrating particularly strong and regular troughs and peaks. After comparing these against the final 39 hours, the team was able to plot out a timetable that was reliable to within three hours, sometimes two, of the subjects’ body clock. The 58 hormones, fats and amino acids were then used as markers to predict the internal rhythms of the other three volunteers -- this was achieved with the same accuracy by analysing the levels of those metabolites in just two blood samples taken 12 hours apart.

The markers, the paper argues, are the ideal indicators for mapping out a timetable since the metabolites chosen “oscillated independently of the individual, food intake, sleep, light, and temperature”.

The study calls the discovery a “convenient diagnostic tool” -- this is in contrast to the method of measuring melatonin levels from blood samples taken every hour over a 24-hour period. However, it studies the samples using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, a method not used commercially in hospitals. By applying the timetable approach, it is certainly more accurate than the melatonin method, however its accuracy levels have already been called into question.

“The range of error is nothing to brag about for a system with inherent precision measured in minutes,” Michael Terman, a psychiatrist from Columbia University who specialises in body clocks, said.

Ueda is working on improving the system’s accuracy, however, by widening the pool of test subjects. He hopes to reduce the blood samples needed to just one, to make it even more efficient than the 24-hour system in place which, though less invasive that the melatonin test, takes just as much time to complete.

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Date of Publishing 25-26 Every Month Date of Posting 3-4 Every Month

Postal Regn. No. DL (S)- 17/3212/2012-14 R.N.I. Regn. No. 63761/96