This PPT covers a comprehensive range of topics related to the cultivation, nutrient management, and irrigation practices for three major floricultural crops: Gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii L.), Chrysanthemum (Dendranthema grandiflora), and Carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus L.). It begins by presenting experimental results on the foliar application of various nutrient combinations in Gerbera, highlighting significant improvements in vegetative growth, floral parameters, vase life, and chlorophyll content. The summary of findings indicates that the foliar application of NPK 20:20:20 at 15g/10 liters combined with Multiplex general liquid at 0.2% (T12) yielded the best results for plant height, leaf area, flower stalk length, flowering head diameter, vase life, and chlorophyll content. Additionally, the combination of NPK 20:20:20 with Power Bio-20 at 0.2% (T11) was most effective for increasing the number of leaves and suckers per plant, as well as flower stalk and neck diameter.
The PPT further discusses a detailed case study on the impact of nutrient management on yield and yield-attributing traits of Gerbera grown under protected polyhouse conditions. The experiment involved twelve different nutrient treatments, including various combinations of NPK with micronutrients such as ZnSO4, Borax, MnSO4, Toto Care, Power Bio-20, and Multiplex General Liquid. The study underscores the importance of balanced macro- and micronutrient supply for optimizing both the quality and quantity of Gerbera flowers under protected cultivation.
Nutrient management strategies are elaborated upon, with a focus on fertigation practices for Gerbera. The PPT outlines the necessity of frequent, optimal fertilizer application to avoid excesses that could harm the crop. It emphasizes the importance of regular soil analysis every two to three months to tailor nutrient schedules. Specific fertigation regimens are described for both vegetative and flowering stages, recommending NPK 19:19:19 during the vegetative phase and NPK 16:8:24 or NPK 20:20:20 plus 13:0:45 during flowering, applied every alternate day. The document also highlights the role of organic manures in maintaining soil carbon-nitrogen balance, with recommended application rates and intervals.
The PPT details the procedures for bed preparation in Gerbera cultivation, specifying the incorporation of farm yard manure (FYM) with soil in a 2:1 ratio and the subsequent application of single super phosphate, magnesium sulphate, and micronutrients at defined rates. These foundational practices are presented as essential for supporting healthy crop establishment and sustained nutrient availability.
Irrigation methods receive significant attention, particularly the use of micro-irrigation systems such as drip irrigation in Gerbera and Chrysanthemum. The PPT describes the initial use of rose-can or sprinkler irrigation post-plantation, followed by a transition to drip irrigation for efficient water delivery. It specifies daily water requirements, the use of foggers to maintain humidity, and the importance of avoiding both water stress and excess moisture. Recommendations are provided for irrigation timing and the maintenance of optimal soil moisture levels.
For Chrysanthemum, the PPT covers environmental requirements under polyhouse conditions, including temperature, relative humidity, CO2 concentration, and photoperiod management for both vegetative growth and flower bud initiation. It describes suitable soil types and growing media, as well as a detailed weekly nutrient schedule involving basal and supplemental fertilizer applications through fertigation. Drip irrigation rates are also specified for Chrysanthemum.
The presentation references experimental studies on Carnation, particularly the effects of different irrigation regimes on flowering and flower quality when using drip irrigation. Although detailed results are not provided, the inclusion of this study highlights the importance of irrigation management in optimizing carnation production.
The PPT also addresses the functions of macro- and micronutrients, the advantages of protected cultivation, and the role of cultural practices such as humidity management and organic amendments. While specific details on diseases, pests, propagation methods, and economic analysis are not extensively covered in the provided text, their mention indicates their relevance within the broader context of the presentation.
In summary, this PPT provides an integrated overview of crop-specific nutrient and irrigation management, experimental comparisons of foliar nutrition and fertigation schedules, the benefits of protected cultivation, and the application of micro-irrigation systems for Gerbera, Chrysanthemum, and Carnation. It draws on case studies and experimental data to inform best practices in floriculture under controlled environments.