Introduction
Floriculture is an emerging sector in Indian horticulture, offering lucrative opportunities through the cultivation of cut flowers, loose flowers, and ornamental plants. Flower crops are grown both for domestic markets and exports, playing a significant role in enhancing farmers’ incomes and rural employment. Below is a curated guide to the most important flower crops cultivated in India, with best practices and insights from Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU).
🌹 Cut Flowers
Cut Rose
Grown under protected cultivation, cut roses are a premium export product. High-density planting, fertigation, and integrated pest and disease management are vital for quality bloom production.
Cut Chrysanthemum
This photoperiod-sensitive crop requires precise light management for year-round production. Ideal for bouquet use, it commands strong market demand during festivals.
Anthurium
A tropical cut flower grown in shade nets, Anthuriums require high humidity and organic-rich media. They are valued in floral arrangements and interior decoration.
Carnation
Carnations thrive in cool climates under greenhouses. Timely pinching, netting, and fertigation improve stem strength and bloom quality.
Dendrobium Orchid
Dendrobiums are delicate orchids needing controlled environments. Used in high-end floral decor, they require precise nutrient and temperature regulation.
Lilium
Lilies are bulbous cut flowers cultivated in cold regions or climate-controlled polyhouses. Proper chilling and photoperiod treatment ensure synchronized flowering.
Gladiolus
Known for tall spikes and vibrant florets, Gladiolus is a winter cut flower that benefits from loamy soil and regular irrigation.
Gerbera
A staple in floriculture, Gerbera is grown in polyhouses and open fields. It demands good drainage and foliar feeding to support long flowering cycles.
China Aster
China aster produces multi-colored blooms and is ideal for bouquets and decorations. It grows best in temperate climates with rich organic soil.
Golden Rod
Used as filler in flower arrangements, Golden Rod thrives in open sunlight and well-drained soils. It requires frequent pinching and spraying.
🌸 Loose Flowers
Commercial Rose (Loose)
Unlike cut roses, these are harvested as buds and petals, widely used in religious and cultural ceremonies.
Jasmine – Malligai, Mullai, Jathimalli
- These fragrant flowers are cultivated extensively in South India. Jasmine requires pruning, irrigation, and disease management to ensure round-the-year flowering.
Crossandra
A vibrant orange flower, Crossandra is drought-tolerant and harvested year-round. It is commonly used in garlands and temple offerings.
Commercial Chrysanthemum
Different from cut chrysanthemum, this variety is grown for garlands and rituals. Timely pinching improves flower size and number.
Tuberose
Grown for its intense fragrance, tuberose flowers are used in perfumes, garlands, and as cut flowers. Well-drained sandy loam is ideal.
Nerium
Also called oleander, Nerium is a hardy shrub that produces attractive flowers used in garlands and landscaping.
Marigold
A staple during festivals, marigold grows quickly and profusely. It thrives in warm climates and is suitable for both border planting and commercial harvesting.
Conclusion
The floriculture industry in India is blooming with potential, thanks to scientific cultivation, protected farming methods, and increased global demand for ornamental plants. By adopting best practices outlined by institutions like TNAU, growers can enhance yield, quality, and profitability.
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