The Journal of Ornamental Horticulture (ISSN 0972-0499, eISSN 2249-880X) is the peer-reviewed, official publication of the Indian Society of Ornamental Horticulture, (ISOH) New Delhi publishing original research papers/ research notes/ research tools in the field of Ornamental Horticulture and allied fields since 2011. The Indian Society of Ornamental Horticulture, Division of Floriculture & Landscaping, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi is a registered professional society under the Society Registration Act XXI of 1860 Act 1957 as extended to the Union Territory of Delhi. NAAS rating (2024): 4.63 NAAS Journal ID (2024): J433
Indian Society of Ornamental Horticulture
Alstroemeria: A potential floriculture crop for the temperate regions: A short communication
Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Ornamental Horticulture https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Vegetative growth of marigold under open field conditions as influenced by rooting media
An experiment was carried out in factorial concept with two factors i.e., varieties at two levels and rooting media at eight levels thus making 16 combinations which were replicated twice. The effect of varieties, rooting media and their interactions were found to be significant with regard to percentage establishment of rooted cuttings (%), plant height (cm), number of primary branches per plant, number of secondary branches per plant, plant spread (cm2), stem diameter (cm) and total dry weight of plant at harvest in open field (g). The variety Bidhan Marigold 1 exhibited greater percentage establishment of rooted cuttings (96.13%) than Bidhan Marigold 2 (94.17%) at 30 days after shifting into the main field. At 90 DAS, the variety Bidhan Marigold 1 exhibited highest plant height (59.03 cm), maximum number of primary branches per plant (4.66), secondary branches per plant (12.95), plant spread (945.55 cm2), stem diameter (1.28 cm) and highest total dry weight of plant (63.03 g), than Bidhan Marigold 2.
Bidhan marigold varieties, days after shifting (DAS), marigold
Optimisation of rooting of plumeria species under different media and planting time
Rise of urbanisation has led to increase in demands of ornamental trees to improve aesthetics as well as to tackle down the load of pollution generated by extensive anthropogenic activities. Plumeria trees, which possess both of these desirable traits, are favoured by growers. However, for mass production in nurseries, analysis of standardized growing time and rooting media is yet to be assessed to obtain the early and cheap planting material. Hence present study was carried out to determine the ability of various rooting media and planting time for early and better production Plumeria rubra. In present investigation three rooting media (viz., Soil, Burnt Rice Husk (BRH) and Sand) that are commonly available to the nurseries were selected and Plumeria rubra were planted through hardwood cutting in two months (viz., December and February). Burnt rice Husk was the best rooting media for the plants while the ideal conditions for rooting were of February with average relative humidity of 46.21 percent and mean temperature 18.82°C. Plumeria rubra was observed to have highest survival percentage (i.e., 72 percent) along with better root and shoot growth in BRH. From the results, it can be concluded that February conditions resulted in better establishment of Plumeria rubra under open conditions while, burnt rice husk can serve as good media for the growth.
Burnt rice husk, media, plumeria, propagation, planting time, rooting
Evaluation of Dahlia (Dahlia variabilis L.) genotypes under Tarai conditions of Uttarakhand
The present investigation was conducted to evaluate the performance of sixteen genotypes of Dahlia based on vegetative and floral attributes at the Model Floriculture Centre, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Present findings revealed that among all the varieties of Dahlia, maximum plant height (88.18 cm), number of leaves (48.66), number of branches (8.75), plant spread (57.83 cm) and stem girth (1.50 cm) were observed in Mother Teresa, Mangal Pandey, Tufan, Sohire and S. P. Kamla, respectively. While minimum days taken for the first bud appearance (35.26 days) and days taken for the first flower opening (96.46) were recorded in Blackout and Mangal Pandey, respectively. Whereas in terms of flower quality, Jijshu recorded significantly better performance like maximum flower diameter (22.75 cm) and flower weight (68.90 g). Maximum number of flowers (17.66) and vase life (7.67 days) were recorded in S. P. Kamala. It was observed from the experimental results that S.P. Kamala was suitable for cultivation in the Tarai regions of Uttarakhand during the winter season period. The overall performance of all the cultivars was influenced by their heritability and environmental conditions.
Dahlia, genotype, heritability, Tarai, S.P. Kamala
Induction of variability in China aster [Callistephus chinensis (L.) Nees] by chemical mutagens
The study was conducted at the Floriculture Research Farm, ASPEE College of Horticulture and Forestry, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, Gujarat, during 2020-21. Seedlings of China aster variety Arka Kamini were treated with different doses of chemical mutagens, namely Diethyl Sulfonate (DES) and Ethyl Methane Sulfonate (EMS), comprising 11 treatments: 0.05% DES (T1), 0.10% DES (T2), 0.15% DES (T3), 0.20% DES (T4), 0.25% DES (T5), 0.05% EMS (T6), 0.10% EMS (T7), 0.15% EMS (T8), 0.20% EMS (T9), 0.25% EMS (T10) and a control (T11). The effects of the mutagens were evaluated, focusing on the induction of mutants and the occurrence of vegetative and floral abnormalities. A total of 24 mutants with desirable colour characteristics were isolated from the treatments. Additionally, three vegetative chimeras were observed in the 0.20% DES, 0.15% EMS, and 0.20% EMS treatments. Notably, a mutant (T5M1) exhibiting strong red coloured flowers was identified in the 0.25% DES treatment.
Chemical mutagens, China aster, diethyl sulphonate, Ethyl Methane Sulfonate (EMS)
Bulb and bulblet production of lilium influenced by planting materials and shade conditions
An experiment was conducted at Floriculture Research Field, Horticulture Research Centre, Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute during August 2020 to June 2021 to evaluate bulb and bulblet production of Lilium with two propagating materials under three shade conditions. A Completely Randomized Design (CRD) was used with two factors: planting materials (bulblets and scales) and three shade conditions: greenhouse (55% sunlight reduction), UV polyhouse (50% sunlight reduction), and polycarbonate sheet house (70% sunlight reduction). Bulblet-derived plants produced significantly longer roots (13.65 cm), more bulbs per hill (0.85), and the heaviest (5.42 g) and largest (2.0 cm) bulbs. The UV polyhouse yielded the highest root count per plant (8.07), maximum leaves at 90 and 120 days after transplanting (12.25 and 17.64), maximum number of bulbs/hill (1.13), the heaviest and largest bulb (8.34 g & 2.82 cm). The polycarbonate sheet house promoted the longest roots (14.18 cm) and tallest plants (13.50-16.98 cm) started from transplanting to 150 days after transplanting. Greenhouse conditions favored bulblet formation, with the highest number (3.43) and weight (3.05g) per hill. Overall, using bulblets in a UV polyhouse gave the best performance across key growth and yield traits.
Bulb, bulblet, lilium, scale, shade conditions
Effect of biostimulants and biofertilizers on soil properties, plant growth and flowering of rose cv. Rose Sherbet
The present investigation was carried out at Model Floriculture Centre, G. B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Udham Singh Nagar Uttarakhand. The experiment was laid out in RBD with nine treatments viz., T1 (100% Recommended dose of fertilizers- RDF), T2 (RDF 75% + Fulvic acid), T3 (RDF 50% + Fulvic acid), T4 (RDF 75% + Humic acid), T5 (RDF 50% + Humic acid), T6 (RDF 75% + Sea weed extract-IFFCO Sagarika), T7 (RDF 50% + Sea weed extract-IFFCO Sagarika), T8 (RDF 75% + IIHR- Arka microbial consortium) and T9 (RDF 50% + IIHR- Arka microbial consortium) and three replications. Among all the treatments plant height (63.53 cm), plant spread (55.57 cm), were found maximum in plants treated with humic acid @ 3 mL L–1 and 75% Recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) i.e. T4 after 150 days of application. T4 also exhibited maximum leaf area per plant (1023.75 cm2), early flower bud appearance (31.47 days), maximum number of flowering shoots per plant per month (3.8), number of flowers per plant per month (18.13) and flower yield per plant per hectare (5693.17 Kg) were also enhanced by T4 whereas lowest values were noticed in T9 (Arka microbial consortium + 50% RDF). Among all the treatments the available N (191.30 kg ha–1), P (25.76 kg ha–1), K (178.08 kg ha–1) in soil, N (2.00%), P (0.40%), K (1.44%) content in plants and soil's bacterial population (2.373× 105 CFU) were enhanced by T4.
Biostimulants and biofertilizer, bacterial population, nutrient status, rose
Effect of gamma-irradiation on the performance of different Gladiolus (Gladiolus grandiflorus L.) cultivars
An experiment titled "Effect of Gamma-irradiation on the performance of different gladiolus (Gladiolus grandiflorus L.) cultivars" was conducted at the Department of Floriculture and Landscaping, College of Horticulture, Mandsaur, Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Gwalior (M.P.) from November 2022 to April 2023. The objective of the study was to evaluate the effects of gamma irradiation on different cultivars at three levels: 0.75, 1.75 and 2.75 kr along with an untreated (control). Four cultivars of gladiolus viz. Jyotsana, Happy End, Dhanvantari and Green Star were taken. The research was carried out under field conditions using a Factorial Randomized Block Design (FRBD) comprising 16 treatments replicated three times. In this experiment, different morphological characteristics i.e., sprouting of 50% corms, plant height at 45 days after planting, number of leaves per plant at 45 days after planting and number of corms per hill were studied. Data revealed that the earliest sprouting of 50% corms was recorded with 0.75 kr gamma irradiation in cultivar Jyotsana. The maximum number of sprouts per hill was recorded with 0.75 kr gamma irradiation in cultivar Green Star, maximum plant height was also reported with 0.75 and 1.75 kr gamma rays in cultivar Jyotsana. Treatment 0.75 kr gamma irradiation with Green Stars shows the best performance concerning the number of leaves per plant. The maximum length of the longest leaf was observed. 0.75 kr gamma-ray in cultivar Jyotsana, maximum width of the longest leaf was observed. 1.75 kr gamma-ray in cultivar Happy End, the maximum number of corms per hill was observed. 0.75 kr gamma-ray in cultivar Green Star and maximum corm diameter was recorded at 0.75 kr gamma irradiation in cultivar Jyotsana.
Corm, gladiolus cultivar performance, gamma irradiation and mutation breeding
Effect of plant growth regulators and organic manures on growth and yield of African marigold var Pusa Basanti Gainda (Tagetes erecta L.)
A factorial experiment with three different growth regulators and organic manures was conducted during the Zaid season at the Nalanda College of Agriculture (Affiliated to Tamil Nadu Agricultural University), Trichy to find out their influence on the growth and yield parameters of African marigold var. 'Pusa Basanti Gainda'. The study has revealed that the growth regulators and organic manures had significant impact on the growth and yield parameters of African marigold var. "Pusa Basanti Gainda'. The plants in the control plot had much lower growth and yield parameters than the plants in the treatment plots. Among the treatments, T6 (100 PPM NAA + 50% goat manure) was found to be the best treatment with mean values of 37.2 cm plant height, 17.33 leaves per plant, 26.5 cm2 leaf area, 14.33 laterals per plant, 13 flowers per plant, 8.57cm flower diameter and 11.73g flower weight. The growth regulators had significant impact on both the growth and yield parameters, while the organic manures had significant impact only on the yield parameters. The interaction between growth regulators and organic manures had significant impact on most of the parameters (Number of leaves per plant, leaf area, number of laterals per plant, flower diameter, and individual flower weight). Among the growth regulators, 100 PPM NAA and among the organic manures, 50% vermicompost had significant impact on all the growth and yield parameters of marigold.
Marigold as a trap crop: efficacy and mechanism for sustainable pest and nematode management in solanaceous vegetable crops: A review
Vegetables are succulent herbaceous crops that are easily affected by insects, pests and diseases. This reduces the yield and productivity and, decreases the economic benefit of the crops. To mitigate this problem, farmers have increased their is not necessary use of chemical pesticides and insecticides. However, the elevated use of these chemicals for crop protection increases toxicity in the soil and plants, as most of the chemical compounds are insoluble and accumulate in the plant and soil as residues. Thus, when such pesticide-treated plants are consumed by humans and other living organisms, they affect their health, leading to the generation of several harmful diseases. In the recent days, an alternative sustainable method has been adopted to keep the population of such insect pests under the economic threshold level which is known as trap cropping. It is considered an eco-friendly method of crop protection, which is cheaper and also provides various additional benefits. One such important crop used as a trap crop in vegetable production is the marigold. It is an ornamental crop grown for aesthetic value and is highly used for the extraction of essential oil with antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. The phytoremedial and allelopathic effect of the plant checks the nematode population and also acts as a natural herbicide. It is grown as a companion crop along with solanaceous vegetables such as tomato, potato, brinjal and chilli which traps several harmful pests such as tomato fruit borer, nematodes, jassids, whiteflies, epilachna beetles, cutworm etc., and maintains their population below the threshold level which increases the marketable yield of the crop.
Value addition in Floriculture: A review
Floriculture is presently considered as the most lucrative agro-enterprise in terms of profit making. During the peak season of festivals, religious ceremonies, valentine's day and marriages there is a great demand of flowers and farmer get a good price but during glut, the demand is less and supply is more, thus farmers do not get remunerative price. Due to highly perishable in nature, most of these flowers are being wasted, therefore, value addition is a very good alternative to avoid wastage during glut. So, value addition is an alternate important arena to reduce the losses by proper utilization of fresh flowers and ornamentals with increase in net profit and farm income. Value addition is a process of changing a product from its original state to more valuable state. It improves both postharvest technologies and logistics. Value addition provides an opportunity of employment generation to earn money and making profit. Different kinds of value-added products are now-a-days formulated which include essential oils, pharmaceutical and neutraceutical compounds, jam, jelly, gulkand, gulroghan, potpourri, rose water, insect repellants, floral dyes, floral tea (rose, chrysanthemum, jasmine, hibiscus etc.), edible flowers like chrysanthemum, honeysuckle, nasturtium, calendua, tulips, rose, dahlia, etc. Vitamin C is isolated from rose fruits (hips) and is marketed as "rose hip", and vitamin C is also used for the cure of scurvy. Marigold flowers are richest source of lutein which possess curative properties to cure blindness. The Xanthopylls extracted from the dried marigold petals are mixed in the poultry feed to intensify the yellow colour in egg yolk and flesh colour of broiler chicken. The crafting in floriculture like art of cut and loose flower arrangements, hair adornments, dry flower products etc. are gaining momentum and popularising in our country. Women at small scale can set up small enterprises where floral crafting in the form of bouquets, garlands, veni, flower arrangements in containers, dry flower making, etc. that has high potential for earning and improving livelihood.
Dry flower, dyeing, essential oil, fresh flower, japanese styles, western styles, pankhuri, poultry feed, value addition, wreath
Advanced drying and preservation techniques for flowers: A review
Dry flowers, a significant form of artistic expression since the Victorian era, continue to be valued for their use in diverse decorative applications such as arrangements, wreaths, and potpourri. This review examines advanced drying and preservation techniques for flowers, highlighting recent advancements. Microwave oven drying with silica gel has shown superior results in preserving the color and structure of flowers like chrysanthemums, gerberas, and plumerias compared to traditional borax treatments. Studies on carnation cultivars indicate that a borax and silica gel mixture in hot air drying at 40°C yields optimal dry flower weight. Additionally, under sun drying conditions, silica gel achieves faster drying with minimal weight loss, while sand effectively preserves flower diameter. Room drying with silica gel also results in the highest visual quality for various flowers. The review emphasizes the need for further research to enhance dehydration techniques, improve flower hardening, and develop effective packaging solutions to extend the longevity and handling of dry flowers.
Effect of rooting media on flowering and yield of bidhan marigold varieties in West Godavari districts (open field) of Andhra Pradesh
An experiment was carried out in factorial concept with two factors i.e., varieties at two levels and rooting media at eight levels thus making 16 combinations which were replicated twice. The effect of varieties, rooting media and their interactions were found to be significant with regard to days taken for first flower bud initiation, days taken for full flower opening, in situ longevity, days taken for 50% flowering, days taken for 100% flowering, duration of flowering, flower diameter, weight of 10-flowers, shelf life of flowers, number of flowers/ plant, flower yield/plant, flower yield/plot and flower yield/hectare. The variety Bidhan Marigold 1 recorded the minimum days for full flower opening (5.79 days), maximum duration of flowering (30.26 days), highest average weight of 10-flowers (7.18 g), highest shelf life of flowers (9.62 days), superior performance of number of flowers per plant (91.30 flowers per plant), highest flower yield per plant (437.75), flower yield per plot (15.29) and highest flower yield per hectare (15.29 t) whereas, the variety Bidhan Marigold 2 recorded the earliest flower bud initiation (37.96 days), maximum days for in situ longevity (20.22 days), lowest number of days for 50% flowering (48.01 days).
Bidhan marigold varieties, bud initiation, duration, flower opening, marigold, yield
Characterization of periwinkle genotypes through DUS test
Catharanthus roseus has been reported to be very useful for the various medical and neutraceutical application besides its ornamental value. Information on morphological characters of periwinkle is needed for development and improvement of this plant species so that its full potential can be optimally utilized. This high diversity germplasm was obtained through exploration efforts. To be successfully utilized in plant breeding programs, the germplasm must be identified for the important characters and expected to have a broad diversity. As a result, an attempt was undertaken to characterize 11 periwinkle genotypes in order to produce identifying keys that are reliable and reasonably straightforward to conduct when applying DUS (distinctness, uniformity and stability) testing. However, distinct differences were noticed in vegetative and floral characters. The study on periwinkle genotypes has successfully demonstrated that all the genotypes differed significantly, which makes the candidate genotype eligible to seek protection in future. The present study therefore provides very useful leads for future research efforts in this direction.
DUS, germplasm, neutraceutical, periwinkle
Sensor based sustainable wastewater management in chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat.) under climate change for enhanced productivity
Water is well-thought-out as the most precarious resource for sustainable development. Diversion of high volume of freshwater to other commercial and industrial sectors due to rapid increase in industrial activities resulted into generation of huge quantity of wastewater. Crops like cut flowers having un-edible economic parts is proposed to be the most feasible and remunerative option with wastewater irrigation. Sensor based wastewater application in cut flowers has the potential to enhance both water use efficiency and water use. Keeping with this objective, a field study was conducted with four replications and six treatments viz. T1: Irrigation with groundwater scheduled at 25% MAD, T2: Irrigation with groundwater scheduled at 50% MAD, T3: Irrigation with groundwater scheduled at 75% MAD, T4: Irrigation with wastewater scheduled at 25% MAD, T5: Irrigation with wastewater scheduled at 50% MAD, T6: Irrigation with wastewater scheduled at 75% MAD in randomized block design (RBD). A soil indicator based approach (MAD) is used as a criteria for scheduling irrigation. Three levels of MAD (25, 50 and 75%) values were quantified by Frequency Domain Reflectrometry (FDR) soil moisture sensor. For each plot (2.25 m2) the amount of water to be applied at each depletion point was calculated by area of plot and irrigation water depth/ Refill amount. The study compared different flowering, yield and biochemical attributes of chrysanthemum. Results from the above statistically analyzed data found that all the flowering, yields and biochemical attributes were found significantly higher in T5 i.e. Irrigation with wastewater scheduled at 50% MAD compared to other groundwater and wastewater irrigated treatment. Generally chrysanthemum crop is responsive to application of nutrients at optimum soil moisture levels. At last it can be concluded that sensor based wastewater application in chrysanthemum at 50% MAD significantly increased flowering, yield and biochemical characteristics. Hence in chrysanthemum 50% MAD value is optimum for irrigation.
Climate change, chrysanthemum, maximum allowable depletion, sensor, sustainable development, wastewater
Green waste compost: growing media for flowering annuals and environmental sustainability
The escalation of green waste production within urban localities has introduced a pressing concern in disposal practices. One sustainable solution to address this issue is the practice of green waste composting. To better comprehend the required level of amendments, a research study was undertaken to investigate the impact of various green waste compost-amended growing media on the growth of four flowering annuals: Dianthus chinensis, Calendula officinalis, Bellis perennis and Tagetes patula. The study was conducted during 2020-2021 at Landscape Nursery, Department of Floriculture and landscaping, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana. The seedlings were transplanted in polybag (two sizes viz., 7" × 5" and 12" × 10"), filled with Green Waste Compost (GWC) and soil in different proportions i.e., GWC only; GWC + Soil (3:1); GWC + Soil (1:1); GWC + Soil (1:3); FYM + Soil (1:1) (Check) and Soil (Control). GWC + Soil (1:1) in larger polybags had maximum number of flowering buds per plant (38.81), plant height (41.81 cm), plant spread (34.23 cm) and maximum number of branches per plant (24.20). Hence, the finding suggested that green waste compost + soil (1:1) was ideal for the production of annuals in nurseries.
Amendments, flowering annuals, flowering, green waste compost, vegetative growth
Evaluation of turf grasses for various qualitative and quantitative traits under Malwa Plateau of Madhya Pradesh
The present investigation entitled "Evaluation of turf grasses for various qualitative and quantitative traits under Malwa Plateau of Madhya Pradesh" was conducted during December 2020 - May 2021 at the Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, K.N.K. College of Horticulture, Mandsaur (M.P.). The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design with three replications and used different genotypes of turf grasses viz. G1 Palma (Cynodon dactylon L.), G2 Local (Cynodon dactylon L.), G3 Panama (Cynodon dactylon L.), G4 Manila (Zoysia matrella L. Merr. Philipp), G5 Tift dwarf 419 (Cynodon dactylon x Cynodon transvaalensis), G6 Maxican grass (Nassella tenuissima) G7 Selection-1 (Cynodon dactylon L.), G8 Tanu variant, G9 Bargusto (Cynodon dactylon L.) G10 Crow foot grass (Dactyloctenium aegyptium), G11 Bahia grass (Paspalum notatum) G12 Centipede grass (Eremochloao phiuroides [Munro] Hack) with 12 different genotypes. The result revealed that genotype Bargusto (Cynodon dactylon L.) recorded the best performance with respect of most of the parameters i.e., the minimum leaf width (mm), minimum canopy height (cm), smallest leaf length (cm), minimum average stolon internodal length (cm), minimum fresh and dry clipping yield (g/m2). Maxican grass (Nassella tenuissima) was recorded maximum root depth. Maximum shoot density was found in Crow foot grass (Dactyloctenium aegyptium) followed by Bahia grass (Paspalum notatum). Lowest average stolon internodal diameter was noticed in Bahia grass (Paspalum notatum). Among the turf grasses, best performed in turf quality noticed in Tift dwarf 419 (Cynodon dactylon x Cynodon transvaalensis) followed by Crow foot grass (Dactyloctenium aegyptium). Maximum leaf chlorophyll content (SPAD Value) was also recorded in Tift dwarf 419 (Cynodon dactylon x Cynodon transvaalensis).
Evaluation, genotypes, turf grass, turf quality, qualitative and quantitative
Effect of land configuration methods and planting depth on growth and flowering of gladiolus (Gladiolus spp.)
The present experiment was carried out at department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, College of Horticulture, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh (Gujarat) during the years 2021-22 and 2022-23 with randomized block design (Factorial) having three replications. The treatment combinations consisting three land configuration methods (L1- Flat bed, L2- Raised bed with 2 rows and L3- Ridge and furrow) and two planting depth (D1- 3.5 cm and D2- 5.5 cm). The results indicated that minimum days taken to sprouting (8.00), days required for first spike emergence (72.25 days), maximum sprouting percentage at 15 days (74.41%), sprouting percentage at 20 days (85.62%), plant height (55.58 cm), number of leaves per plant (6.84), length of spike (43.66 cm), number of florets per spike (8.33), length of rachis per spike (28.92 cm), number of spikes per plant (1.61), yield of spikes per hectare (1.80 lakh) and vase life of spikes (13.93 days) were recorded with raised bed with 2 rows (L2). The variation due to planting depth was also found significant for all the parameters except plant height, length of rachis per spike and vase life of spikes. Minimum days taken to sprouting (8.11), days required for first spike emergence (74.32%), maximum sprouting percentage at 15 days (73.80%) and sprouting percentage at 20 days (84.55%), number of leaves per plant (6.74), length of spike (35.48 cm), number of florets per spike (7.76), number of spikes per plant (1.48), yield of spikes per hectare (1.65 lakh) were obtained with planting at 3.5 cm depth (D1). Raised bed planting had favourable effects on growth and flowering of gladiolus as compared to ridge and furrow and flat bed planting. Gladiolus plants with better growth and flowering parameters can be obtained from planting on raised bed with 2 rows (L2) at 3.5 cm (D1) planting depth.
Flowering, gladiolus, growth, land configuration and planting depth
Morphological characterization and assessment of genetic variability in Hibiscus rosa-sinensis: A Comparative Study
The present study was conducted to evaluate the quantitative and qualitative traits of twenty Hibiscus rosa-sinensis genotypes. Wide variation was observed among the genotypes for almost all the leaf and flower morphological characters. Ovate, cordate and circular leaf shapes were found among the genotypes with serrate or crenate type of incision. The leaf colour varied between three shades of green. The genotype CO 2 recorded the maximum leaf length (12.8 cm) and leaf width (8.3 cm), while the minimum leaf length and leaf width were observed in the genotypes KAU Hb 43 and KAU Hb 42 respectively. Among the flower characters, KAU Hb 38 produced the largest flowers with the highest flower diameter (15.77 cm) while genotypes KAU Hb 42 and KAU Hb 13 produced smaller flowers with least diameter of 6.80 cm and 6.9 cm respectively. The genotype with the longest petal was KAU Hb 38 (8.63 cm) and the broadest petal was seen in KAU Hb 43 (6.03 cm). The maximum fresh weight of flowers was 4.97g for the genotype KAU Hb 3. A wide range of colours were also observed in the flowers and leaves of hibiscus genotypes. Cluster analysis was done to group the genotypes into four clusters based on the diversity in morphological characters and variability analysis was done to ensure effective selection of genotypes for further breeding programmes.
Clustering, flower morphology, genotypes, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, variability
Effect of Jeevamrut on growth and quality of african marigold (Tagetes erecta L.)
An experiment titled "Effect of jeevamrut on growth and quality of African marigold (Tagetes erecta L.)" was conducted during Rabi 2023 at the College of Horticulture, S. D. Agricultural University, Jagudan, Gujarat, India. In this study Randomized Block Design was used a with three replications and evaluated sixteen treatments i.e. Control (T1), Jeevamrut drenching @ 500 l/ha (T2), 750 l/ha (T3), 1000 l/ha (T4), 5% Jeevamrut foliar application (T5), 10% (T6), 15% (T7), combinations of drenching and foliar application at various rates were used (T8 to T16). The treatment T13 (Jeevamrut drenching @ 750 l/ha + 15% foliar application) showed superior results in growth parameters with maximum plant height at 90 DAT (68.47 cm) and 120 DAT (74.21 cm), number of primary branches at 90 DAT (12.53) and 120 DAT (13.47) and plant spread (N-S) (43.97 cm), (E-W) (43.94 cm) and quality parameter with diameter of flower (7.00 cm) and weight of flower (6.81 g).
Growth, jeevamrut, marigold, RDF, quality
Conventional breeding approach for obtaining ornamentally superior F1 hybrids of periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus L.)
Periwinkle is an herbaceous plant mostly known for its medicinal values. Its use as a flowering plant is limited but it has potential for being important summer and rainy season flowering annual in tropical and sub tropical areas. Keeping this in mind, eight inbred lines of distinct plant characters and flower colours (Magenta with white centre, Magenta, Cherry pink, Peach, Purple, Pink with dark pink centre, Light pink with white centre and White with red spot) were crossed in half-diallel to obtain twenty eight F1 hybrids. These hybrids along with the parents were evaluated for growth and flowering parameters. The results revealed the superiority of F1 hybrids in terms of their earliness to flowering, longer flowering duration and greater number of flowers per plant. The values of phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation were high (>20%) for number of flowers per plant and follicle length. Traits like plant height, plant spread, leaf width, leaf length, petiole length, flower diameter and corolla tube length were highly heritable. Moderate to high heritability along with greater genetic advance was recorded in traits viz. plant height, plant spread, number of branches per plant, petiole length, number of flowers per plant and follicle length. These results can be helpful in selection of superior cross combinations and development of improved genotypes in periwinkle for its use as potential ornamental crop.
Catharanthus roseus, genetic advance, heritability, variability, vinca
Effect of gamma rays and colchicine on morphology, flowering and yield attributes of tuberose var. Bidhan Snigdha
A study was taken up to harness the potential of induced mutations (physical and chemical) to diversify the genetic makeup of tuberose var. Bidhan Snigdha for the creation of novel and improved varieties with enhanced ornamental features. Among different doses of mutagenic treatments, least days to 50% sprouting as well as first flower opening, maximum leaf area and number of spikes per clump were recorded in control while, maximum survival percentage with the application of 1.0 kR gamma rays, 0.09% colchicine and in control. The maximum plant height was recorded in 0.07% colchicine treatment, while number of leaves per plant and spike length were in 0.11% colchicine. Rachis length, number of florets per spike, floret length, number of florets open at a time, spike longevity and weight of bulbs per clump were found maximum when bulbs of tuberose variety Bidhan Snigdha treated with 3.5 kR gamma rays. The maximum flower diameter, number of bulblets per clump and weight of bulblets per clump were recorded with the application of 3.00 kR gamma rays whereas, maximum number of bulbs per clump noted in 0.03% colchicine.
Bulbs, colchicine, gamma rays, tuberose and mutants
Standardization of resin and hardener mixing conditions for optimal preservation of dried flowers
The present study was conducted in the Agrotechnology division laboratory of CSIR-IHBT, Palampur, during 2024 to determine the optimal conditions embedding dried flowers in epoxy resin products. A completely randomized design with twelve treatments and three replications were used. Fresh hydrangea flowers were dried using silica gel and borax desiccants, and then embedded in an epoxy resin and hardener mixture at a 3:1 ratio. The mixture was subjected to various mixing conditions and then poured into molds with the flowers and left to set at room temperature. Setting times under different temperatures and durations were evaluated, along with qualitative assessments using a 5-point hedonic scale for various parameters. Results indicated that temperature and mixing duration did not significantly affect the setting time. The longest setting time of 25.05 hours was observed for treatment T4 (mixing in HWB at 40? for 5 minutes), while the shortest setting time of 17.00 hours was recorded for treatment T10 (mixing at room temperature for 21 minutes). Qualitative analysis demonstrated that these treatments influenced the color, texture, brittleness, contrast, transparency, aesthetic beauty and overall acceptability of the resin products. The best transparency (4.13) and overall acceptability (3.13) were achieved with treatment T4.
Dry flower, epoxy resin, standardization, value-added products
Influence of rooting media on mycorrhizal development and nutrient contents in marigold
An experiment was carried in factorial concept with two factors i.e., varieties at two levels and rooting media at eight levels thus making 16 combinations which were replicated twice. The effect of varieties, rooting media and their interactions were found to be significant on different mycorrhizal and nutrient content parameters. Among the rooting media, the maximum mycorrhizal spore count in root zone (197) was recorded by M8 - soil : vermicompost : coco peat : saw dust (1:1:1:1) v/v + mycorrhiza on par with M6 - soil : vermicompost : coco peat : rice husk (1:1:1:1) v/v + mycorrhiza (186). Relative Microbial Dependency Index was also observed to be higher with the above media. The highest nitrogen uptake (136.09 kg ha–1) was recorded by M6 - soil : vermicompost : coco peat : rice husk (1:1:1:1) v/v + mycorrhiza followed by M8 - soil : vermicompost : coco peat : saw dust (1:1:1:1) v/v + mycorrhiza (135.47 kg ha–1) followed by M4 - soil : vermicompost : coco peat (1:1:1) v/v + mycorrhiza (113.76 kg ha–1). The lowest nitrogen uptake was observed for M1 - soil. (57.69 kg/ha).
Leaf, mycorrhizal spore count, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium content, rooting media, RMDI, soil
Exploring edible landscaping - purpose, plants and places – A review
In the wake of increasing urbanisation, modernization and loss of open space, residents in large cities struggle for the space required to establish a traditional food garden. Edible landscaping is a practical food-producing design technique that offers an alternative to conventional agricultural production and urban land use by combining both edible and ornamental plants together in constructed environments. Edibles can be grown on their own or combined with ornamentals to create visually beautiful patterns for existing gardens and yards. Using edibles in landscape design can enhance a garden by providing a unique ornamental component with additional health, aesthetic and economic benefits. Edible crops can assume several landscape functions to create different attractions in each cropping season. Even though edible gardening is focused on food availability at household level, it is also intended to increase interest in the utilization of endemic edible plants and greening of urban spaces to alleviate environmental problems.
Food scaping, food-producing design, green urban spaces, garden aesthetics, ornamental edibles, sustainable gardening, urban agriculture, urban land use, urban food security, urban biodiversity
Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera): a multidisciplinary review of its aesthetic, ecological, and medicinal significance – A review
Nelumbo nucifera, commonly known as lotus, is a plant deeply intertwined with human botanical, ecological, and nutraceutical. This paper presents a comprehensive review of the multidimensional significance of Nelumbo nucifera, spanning across various disciplines. Culturally, the lotus holds symbolic importance in numerous civilizations, depicted in art, religion, and literature. Botanical, its phytochemical composition, structural characteristics, and medicinal properties have been extensively studied, revealing its potential as a source of bioactive compounds with therapeutic benefits. Ecologically, Nelumbo nucifera plays a crucial role in aquatic ecosystems, contributing to biodiversity and habitat health. Furthermore, its nutritional value, particularly in terms of rhizomes and seeds, makes it a promising candidate in the realm of nutraceuticals. Through a multidisciplinary lens, this review aims to provide a holistic understanding of Nelumbo nucifera, highlighting its diverse significance and potential applications in various fields.
Ecological, Nutritional, Medicinal and Therapeutic potential; Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant, and Anti-cancer properties
Growth and flowering of ornamental pot plants influenced by growing media – A review
This review presents an overview of various growing media and their compositions for enhancing morphological development and flowering in ornamental potted plants. Findings indicate that lightweight growing mixtures, combining different media in optimal proportions, improve plant growth in containers. Studies have shown that chrysanthemum pot mum grown in cocopeat-based media can replace traditional soil. Orchids and lilies thrive best in cocopeat, enhancing vegetative growth, flower yield and quality. Anthurium's vegetative growth improves in sand and coir pith compost, while cocofiber, FYM and neemcake enhance its flowering. Vermicompost and coarse sand promote zinnia flower yield. Organic waste media, such as paddy straw compost and burnt rice husk, boost kalanchoe growth and flowering. Optimized growing media are crucial for successful ornamental crop production, impacting plant health, growth rates and quality. Alternatives to traditional soil include peat, coir, perlite, vermiculite, bark and synthetic substrates, each offering unique benefits in water retention, aeration and nutrient availability. Advances in sustainability incorporate biodegradable materials, waste products and biochar. These examples show how enhanced growing media can improve the efficiency and sustainability of ornamental crop production, addressing economic and environmental considerations. Thus, the choice of growing medium significantly affects the development and flowering of potted ornamental plants, adding value to their production.
Cocopeat, floriculture, growing media, potted ornamentals
Performance evaluation of marigold pre-breeding lines for total carotenoids content, flower yield and associated traits
Marigold with orange-coloured petals are gaining momentum among the growers and industries due to the presence of high amount of total carotenoids. Study was carried out to find the variability for carotenoid content and associated characters in marigold pre-breeding lines and their heritability for effective utilization in future breeding programme. Wide variability was observed for flower yield and associated traits. High genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variations, heritability and genetic advance over mean were recorded for plant height, total No. of flowers, flower yield per plant and No. of seeds per capitulum indicating presence of higher genetic variability and these traits can be further improved through selection. Moderate heritability was recorded for traits like plant spread, No. of branches and flower diameter, suggesting their improvement through further hybridization and selection. Total carotenoid content among the pre-breeding lines ranged between 1.35 -2.49 g/100g DW and was found to be positive significant correlated with No. of secondary branches, flower diameter and flower yield per plant governed with moderate to low heritability. Based on the mean performance of the traits, six pre-breeding lines IIHRM0 2335 (2.28 g/100g DW), IIHRM 2-3S (2.49 g/100g DW), IIHRM 2-3F (2.06 g/100g DW), IIHRMO 2340 (2.07 g/100g DW), IIHRMO 2336 (2.03 g/100g DW) and IIHRMO 232 (2.02 g/100g DW) were identified that were rich in total carotenoid content along with the associated traits, which can be utilized as seed and/or pollen parent for development of carotenoid-rich marigold hybrids.
GCV, genotypic correlation, high carotenoids content, heritability, marigold
Copyright (c) 2024 Journal of Ornamental Horticulture https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Effect of plant growth regulators on growth and flowering of calendula (Calendula officinalis L.) under Malwa plateau of M.P.
The present investigation entitled "Effect of Plant Growth Regulators on Growth and Flowering of Calendula (Calendula officinalis L.) under Malwa Plateau of M.P." was conducted during Rabi 2020-2021 at the Experimental Field, Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, K.N.K. College of Horticulture, Mandsaur (M.P.). The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with three replications and used different plant growth regulators viz. T1 (Control), T2 (GA3 @ 250 ppm), T3 (GA3 @ 300 ppm), T4 (GA3 @ 350 ppm), T5 (NAA @ 150 ppm), T6 (NAA @ 200 ppm) and T7 (NAA @ 250 ppm). The result revealed that T4 (GA3 @ 350 ppm) proved better than all other treatments with respect of various attributes such as plant height (cm), number of leaves, number of branches / plant, maximum number of flowers/ plant, number of flowers each stem and flowering duration (days). However, T3 (GA3 300 ppm) showed best results with plant spread and T2 (GA3 250 ppm) with fresh and dry weight of flower (g) and diameter of flowers (cm).
Calendula, plant growth regulators (GA3, NAA).
The Glimpses of the 40th All India Rose Convention and Show — A short communication
Rose symbolizes romance, love, beauty, and courage. It has been regarded as the king or queen of flowers. Its multiple benefits and function has outcasted most of other flowers. The beauty of rose are comforting to people; the fragrance of rose calms stressed-out body and mind; the ingredients of rose can be a good source of nutrients and medicinal herbs; the hierarchical structures of rose petals have anti- reflection and light-harvesting abilities, which have the potential to be materials for various electronic product. Hada Bejar an actress by profession rightly said "Fragrance always stays in the hands that give the roses." Such convention has brought the common people and roses at a confluence so as to be a part in all fields of this world.