SL.NO PROJECT PARTICULARS PAGE NO. Nos. (1) (2) (3) (4) centre... · 20. 4.6.1 Management of foot...
Transcript of SL.NO PROJECT PARTICULARS PAGE NO. Nos. (1) (2) (3) (4) centre... · 20. 4.6.1 Management of foot...
1
INDEX
SL.NO PROJECT Nos.
PARTICULARS PAGE NO.
(1) (2) (3) (4)
1. Back ground Information
2. Staff position and budget
3. Salient findings and recommendations
4. 1.5.1 Collection ,characterization, evaluation and maintenance
of Tropical orchid germplasm
5. 1.8.1 Collection, evaluation and maintenance of gerbera
germplasm
6. 1.13.1 Collection and evaluation of underexploited
ornamentals viz.,Heliconia (Heliconias sp.) and Bird
Paradise (Sterlitzia reginae)
7. 1.14.1 Collection and evaluation of cut fillers
(Asperagus,dracaena,gypsophila and ferns)
8.
1.14.2 Survey, collection and evaluation of native ornamentals
for commercial cultivation
9. 2.3.1 Testing of genotypes in tuberose
10. 2.4.1 Testing of new genotypes of marigold for loose flower
11. 3.5.1 Effect of organic supplement on growth and flowering
of orchids
12. 3.5.2 Effect of biofertilizers on growth and flowering of
orchids
13. 3.5.3 Effect of inorganic nutrients on growth and flowering of
orchids
14. 3.5.4 Effect of micronutrients on growth, development and
flowering of orchids
15. 3.9.1 Effect of coloured shade nets on cut foliage plant
(Asparagus plumosus and Nephrolepis)
16. 3.9.2 Efficacy of media incorporated with Pusa hydro gel on
growth and production of quality foliage plants
17. 4.1.1 Disease diagnostics in major ornamental crops of Assam
18. 4.3.1 Management of Fusarium wilt in gladiolus
19. 4.5.1 Management of tuberose leaf blight
20. 4.6.1 Management of foot and root rot disease in gerbera
21. 4.6.2 Management of leaf spot/blight disease in gerbera
22. 5.2.1 Standardization of packing techniques for flower strings
of marigold
23. 5.3.1 Standardization of postharvest treatment using boric
acid and sodium benzoate for improving postharvest life
of loose flowers of tuberose
24. 5.3.2 Standardization of packing techniques for flower strings
of tuberose
25. 5.3.3 Studies on use of food dyes for tinting in tuberose stems
26. 5.4.1 Identification of ornamental species for preparation of
value added dried products
27.
Meteorological data: Meteorological data during the
period April 2011 to March 2012 of experimental site
of AICRP (F), HRS (AAU), Kahikuchi centre
28. Research publication
2
ANNUAL REPORT, AICRP (F), (2015-16) AAU, KAHIKUCHI CENTRE
Back ground information:
Assam is said to be a natural paradise of many species of flora of tropical and sub-
tropical rain forest and accounts for approximately half of the total number of plant species
found in India. The forests of the region are extremely different in structure and composition
where the highest diversity in ecological habitats is found. The state is also representing an
important part of the Indo- Myanmar biodiversity hot spot, one of the 25 biodiversity
hotspots recognized globally. Wide genera of herbs, succulents, epiphytes, flowering trees,
shrubs and climbers of varied magnitude of utility are found growing wild in the forest of
plains and hills of the region. This has also been observed that many species of beautiful
flowers of annuals, foliar greens and their close relatives of wild are under semi cultivated
forms and also well abundant to different natural habitats of the region. With the growing
demand of flowers and foliar green in the international trade, consumers, preference for
novelty and alternate taste has also been accelerated. As the conventional breeding
programme could not bring an immediate change to the present status, exploiting these
natural fauna, that are extremely attractive in morphological variations, is the only mean to
fulfill the aspiration of wide range of consumers globally in short span of time. Exploitation
of the seasonal and perennial flowers from their wild habitats may also bring out certain
new taste and dimension to the trade of cut flowers, gardening and essence industries by
compounding manifold benefits to flower growers and entrepreneurs. The exploitation may
also help in conserving the unidentified species of wild that may otherwise have the possible
threat of illegal collection and extinction in the nature. The rehabilitation of threat species in
natural habitats may be possible by understanding their systematic study of growing
techniques and reproductive biology and by multiplying or regenerating them in large
numbers.
General Background about the Centre:
The research of fruit crops at Kahikuchi was initiated in the year 1957 with a scheme
on pineapple under the Department of agriculture, Govt. of Assam. The establishment was
named as Regional Fruit Research Station in the year 1960-61 after inclusion of research
schemes on Banana, Citrus and Temperate fruits. Later on, the Department of Agriculture,
Govt. of Assam, handed it over to Assam Agricultural University in 1973, and was named
as Horticultural Research Station (HRS). At present it has one sub-station for research on
coconut at Kharua under Nalbari district.
3
HRS Kahikuchi is located near LGB International Airport, Borjhar at a distance of
about 19 km from Guwahati Railway Station. The geographical location of the station lies at
20018' N Latitude and 91070 E' Longitude and 80.0 m above mean sea level. The area
receives an annual rainfall of about 2000 mm with the heaviest fall during June-July.
Periodic dry spell generally occurs from December to February. The maximum and
minimum temperature ranges from 19 -350C and 5 -25C, respectively. The Station covers
an area of 32.50 ha. The soil status is incepti sol, textural class of top soil: silt-clay to sandy
loam dominated having pH 4.40 - 5.60. Available N medium to high, Available P medium
and available K medium.
A series of basic and field oriented research on fruit crops like Banana, Coconut,
Assam lemon, Pineapple and indigenous fruits; vegetable crops like cole crops, tomato,
brinjal, okra, cucurbits etc.; spices like ginger, turmeric, black pepper, etc.; tuber crops like
colocasia and tapioca and aromatics like citronella and jasmine has already been
accomplished at this station since its inception.
In 2001, ICAR had recommended the Horticultural Research Station, Kahikuchi of
Assam Agricultural University as one of the mandatory research centers of All India
Coordinated Research Project on Floriculture. The centre has started functioning from April,
2001with the appointment of two scientists and two field staffs in the initial stage.
However, the strength has been increased by appointing another scientist (Plant pathologist)
on 24th April, 2002.
2. Staff position under the Scheme:
Sl.
No
Sanctioned post Person in Position /Date of
Joining
Approved
scale (Rs.)
Present Scale
(Rs.)
Remarks
1. One Scientist
Asstt.Floriculturis
t
Dr.S.K.Borah ,Pr. Scientist
Horticultural Research Station
(AAU) Kahikuchi,Guwahati-
781 017, Email:
sunilkborah @ gmail.com Ph 094353-00482 (M)
8,000-
13,500
37,400 -67,000
+ 10,000
In position
2. One Scientist
Asstt.
Horticulturist
Dr.P.Hatibarua,Pr.Scientist,
Horticultural Research
Station (AAU)
Kahikuchi,Guwahati17
Email: preetihb
[email protected] Ph: 09954647964 (M)
8,000-
13,500
37,400 -67,000
+ 10,000
In position
3. One Scientist
Asstt. Pl.
Pathologist
Dr.N.Mazumder, Sr.Scientist
Horticultural Research
Station (AAU) Kahikuchi ,
Guwahati-17
E-mail : nmazumder _66 @
8,000-
13,500
37,400 -67,000
+ 9,000
In position
4
rediffmail.com Ph: 09435198847 (M)
4. Two
Field men
Sri Dandi Kalita 3,760-
9,400 5,200/-20,200+
3,300
In position
5. Sri Pankaj Bhuyan 3,760-
9,400
In position
3. Budget Details:
Statement of Receipt & Expenditure during the period from 01.04.15 to 31.03.16
Funding Agent: ICAR Financial year: 2015-16
Sl.
No
.
Head of
Receipt &
Expenditure
Budget
allotment
during the
year,
2014-15
Fund receipt during the year 2015-
16
Expenditure incurred during the
year,2014-15
ICAR share
(75%)
State share
(25% )
Total
(100%)
ICAR
share
(75%)
State
share
(25% )
Total
(100%)
A
(i)Pay &
Allowances
13,00,000 46,75,081 15,58,360 62,33,441 39,36,394 13,12,131 52,48,525
(ii) Arrear
salary
B. T.A.
45,000
44,997 14,999 59,996.00 17,794 5,931 23,725
C.
Rec.Continge
ncy 3,15,000 3,14,475 1,04,825 4,19,300 1,81,957 60,652 2,42,609
D. NRC
22,00,000 22,00,000 7,33,333 29,33,333 - - -
Grand Total
(A+B+C+D+)
38,60,000 72,34,553 24,11,517 96,46,070 41,36,145 13,78,714 55,14,859
5
4. Salient findings:
A. Germplasm conservation and evaluation
(i) Collection, characterization, evaluation and maintenance Tropical orchids
All total 19 (Nineteen) species of different genera of Tropical orchids have been
collected from various locations of the forest of Assam.
(ii) Collection, evaluation and maintenance of gerbera germplasm
Eleven field grown gerberas viz., Red Gem, Red Monach, Jowahar, Delfi, Nadja,
Pink Melody, HRSG-OWC, HRSG-IP, HRSG- R-6, HRSG-R-12 and HRSG-PCC were
collected and raised in open field using black polythene during November 2016.
However, during the course of evaluation of six elite gerbera varieties under poly
house, revealed significantly differed characters from each other. Amongst the genotypes,
Elite was found superior in terms of number of leaves per plant (12.25), However in terms
of days to first flowering (104.75days), flower diameter (10.32cm) and stalk length
(48.78cm), variety Tecta was found superior than other varieties.These charecters were on
par with variety Reene and Loreto respectively.However, maximum number of plant
suckers per clump per year (3.30 nos.), was observed in Leroto.
(iii) Collection and evaluation of underexploited ornamentals viz. Heliconias
(Heliconias sp.) and Bird of Paradise (Sterlitzia reginae)
Heliconia: Amongst the entries the red heliconia took maximum days to first
emergence of flower (403.6 days).In respect of plant height the Red Heliconia registered
highest plant height (3.65 m), plant spread (2.48m, EW and2.78mNS), interval of leaf
production (65.20days), petiole length (1.17m), maximum number of shoots (19.20) per
clump per year and maximum fresh weight of inflorescence (445.5g) and longevity of spike
in plant (35.4 days). However maximum leaf numbers (14.40), highest length of flower
spike (46.20 cm) and flower stalk (31.40 cm) and maximum number of florets (13.00) per
6
spike were observed in Heliconia pendula .In respect of market acceptability as cut flower
Pink Heliconia, Bihai Yellow Dancer and Bihai Orange Dancer were found promising.
Bird of paradise: Among the two unknown accession (HRS-BOP-1 and HRS-BOP-2)
HRS-BOP-1 registered maximum number of inflorescences (7.20), suckers (6.20 no) after
5 yrs of planting. However, HRS-BOP-2 is yet to attain reproductive stage.
(iv) Collection and evaluation of fillers (Asparagus and Ferns):
A total of 22 species of ferns (both exotic and indigenous species) and 5 species of
Asparagus were collected and evaluated at Kahikuchi centre during 2013-14. The
performance of these ferns and Asparagus species based on their morphological traits,
vegetative growth and vase life studies is being carried out to find out their uses as indoor
potted plant, ground cover, and cut fillers .
B. CROP IMPROVEMENT
(i) Breeding and Testing of new genotypes of Marigold
Among the 17 marigold genotypes Cvs. Siracole and Pusa Arpita recorded the
highest seed germination (78.33 and 78.50 %, respectively). The tallest plants were
produced by the genotypes IIHRMY-4 and IIHRMY-5 (98.2 cm and 95.5 cm, respectively),
while IIHRMO-4IIHRFm-1 plants were the shortest (20 cm and 22.75 cm, respectively).
Maximum plant spread was recorded in plants of cv. Hajo Local Yellow (103.0 cm), while
the minimum was recorded in the genotypes IIHRMO-4 and IIHRMO-2 (30 cm and 33.0
cm, respectively), while IIHRMO-4 produced least no. of a mean primary branches per plant
(7.5). C. PLANT PROTECTION
(i) Disease diagnostic in bulbous ornamentals: Phoma polyanthis and Phoma tuberosa
were two new fungal pathogens identified causing leaf spot/bligt in both single and double
type of tuberose. In addition, three fungal pathogens causing foliar infection in gerbera
selected for cultivating in open conditions were identified. These were viz.,(i) Aschochyta
gerberae in Red Monarch, causes brownish blight originate either from the leaf tip or leaf
margin and proceeds towards midrib. (ii) Phoma glomarata in Red Monarch, (cause both
blight/ leaf spot) and (iii) Botryodiplodia theobromae in Red Gem causes leaf spot.
(ii) Management of Fusarium (Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. gladioli)wilt in gladiolus
Pre-storage and pre-planting treatment of corm with captan 0.2% + carbendazim
0.2% for 30 min followed by soil application of T. harzianum (10 g in 1 kg FYM for 10
7
m2) which registered less disease incidence of 16.67 per cent with the highest per cent
disease control (63.60%) .
(iii) Management of tuberose leaf blight (Alternaria polyanthi)
Spraying of Azoxystrobin 23 SC @ 0.1% or Difenconazole 25EC @ 0.1% or
Iprodione 25% + carbendazim 25% WP @ 0.1% were found effective in managing the leaf
spot disease of tuberose, which recorded significantly lowest disease incidence of 7.83,
8.91 and 10.25 per cent with highest per cent disease control of 76.24 , 73.04 and 68.99,
respectively.
(iv) Integrated management of foot and root rot (Phytopthora spp.) of gerbera
Soil drenching with metalaxyl 8% + mancozeb 64% WP @ 0.2% followed by
application of Neem cake colonized by Trichoderma harzianum @ 500 g/m2 one
month after the last soil drenching recorded lowest foot rot disease incidence of 16.37
per cent with high per cent disease control of 62.30 and highest production of flower
stalk (69.60/m2) as well as highest flower stalk length (50.11 cm).
(v) Management of leaf spot/blight (Phoma gerberae) of gerbera
Spraying of difenoconazole 25% EC @ 0.05% or azoxystrobin 23 SC @ 0.1% were
found effective for managing the leaf spot/blight disease of gerbera which recorded
significantly lowest disease incidence of 15.62, and 21.09 per cent with maximum per cent
disease control of 67.53, and 55.87 %, respectively over the check.
D. POST HARVEST TECHNOLOGY.
(i) Standardization of packing techniques for flower strings of marigold:
Among the three packing treatments, flowers packed in Bamboo basket with paper
lining and ice pack in the centre (two baskets upside down of about 1.5 feet diameter with 1
foot depth) recorded highest PLW of flowers at 1, 2 and 3 days, respectively, compared to
the other two types of packing containers.
(ii)Standardization of postharvest treatment using boric acid and sodium benzoate for
improving post harvest life of loose flowers of tuberose
Amongst the treatment boric acid 5% (20.10% in 24 hrs and 28.23%in 48 hrs) and
sodium benzoate 50 ppm (20.85% in 24hrs and 45.10%in 48hrs) significantly maintained
maximum level of moisture content over control (25.73% in 24 hrs and 45.46 % in 48 hrs)
.The same level of treatment also significantly improved the storage period (49.33 hrs and
49.00 hrs respectively) over water spray control (40.33hrs).
(iii) Standardization of packing techniques for flower strings of tuberose:
Among the packing materials used, highest PLW (49.57 %) was recorded in tuberose
strings packed in Bamboo basket, followed by Thermocol box and CFB Box, which were at
8
par. Flowers remained fresh till day 1 in all cases. Tuberose strings packed in bamboo
basket remained fresh for a longer time because of more aeration due to gaps in the basket,
compared to the other two treatments. Wilting, browning of tips and edges of petals and
rotting ( 25 %), especially in the lower portions were observed on Day-2 in case of tuberose
flower strings packed inThermocol box and CFB Box. On Day-3, 30 % rotting of flowers
were observed in bamboo basket. Ice in pack melted and spoiled flowers making them
soggy, especially in CFB box and Thermocol box hastening rotting by facilitating growth of
microorganisms.
(iv) Use of food dyes for tinting in tuberose stems:
Maximum tinting intensity was observed on 1st day. On the 4th day of dipping, base
colour faded while tint remained on tips and edges. On the 5th day, flowers faded to white
in all the Food Dyes except Raspberry Red, 8% flowers still retained tinge of pink colour.
Tinting was observed up to the topmost florets of the rachis..
(v) Identification of ornamental species for preparation of value added dry products
In the initial approach 40 species of the ornamental plants found in Assam were
identified that could be exploited to be used for preparation of dry products for the dry
flower markets.
5. Experiment wise results
1. GERMPLASM CONSERVATION AND EVALUATION
Project No.1.5.1: Collection, characterization, evaluation and maintenance Tropical orchids
Duration: Long term (For the center 2015-16 onwards)
Objective: 1. To collect different native orchids by exploring from its natural habitats
2. To collect the commercial cultivars of cultivated genera and evaluate them to
explore the commercial feasibility.
Collection: During the year 2015-16 the following 19 species of different genera of orchids
were collected from different natural habitats of Assam (Table 1.5.1.1) and raised those in
natural condition under 50% shade net house.
Evaluation: During the year of reporting (2015-16) a hybrid, Aranda Kunga Gyatso
develoed by NRC, orchid, Pakyung was tested for its regional performance at the Kahikuchi
Centre.The average data of 5 plants on various parameters were presented in the table
(1.5.1.2)
Table 1.5.1.1: Collection of different Tropical orchid species at Kahikuchi centre, 2015-16
Sl no. Name of the orchids Number of Location of
9
specimen collected collection
1. Rhynchostylis spp. 10 Nambor forest
reserve
2. Aerides odoreta 25 -do-
3. Rattle snake orchid 3 -do-
4. Cymbidium olifolium 3 -do-
5. Dendrobium spp. 2 -do-
6. Coelogyne spp. 3 -do-
7. Dendrobium moschatum 7 -do-
8. Papilinantheteric 2 -do-
9. Dendrobium chrysotoxum 5 -do-
10. Phaius tankervilliae 5 -do-
11. Tixea warena 3 -do-
12. Micropla pelida 2 -do-
13. Bulbophyllum spp. 5 -do-
14. Geooum spp. 5 -do-
15. Unknown epiphytic spp 29 -do-
16. Paphiopedilum spp. 1 -do-
17. Dendrobium fimbriatum 3 -do-
18. Dedrobium jenkensii 4 -do-
19. Spathoglotis plicata 2 -do-
Evaluation: During the year of reporting a hybrid, Aranda Kunga Gyatso develoed by
NRC, orchid, Pakyung was tested for its regional performance at the Kahikuchi Centre.The
average data of 5 plants on various parameters were presented in the table
Table 1.5.1.2: Growth and reproductive parameters on Aranda Kunga Gyatso
Sl.
no
Characters/
plant
Plant-1 Plant-2 Plant-3 Plant-4 Plant-5 Average
1. Plant height(cm) 110 63.5 84 60 55.4 74.58
2. No of leaves 20 17 17 11 11 15.20
3. Date of first flowering #12.02.16 29.02 26.02 29.02 27.02 -
4. Inflorescence no/plant 3 3 3 2 2 2.60
5. Rachis Length(cm) 20 12.4 20.2 16.4 13.5 16.50
6. No of flowers/spike 5 5 5 5 4 4.80
7. Flower size(cm) 10.5/9.3 9.7/8.3 8.7/8 9.9/9.2 9.5/8.9
8. Pedicel length(cm) 4.2 4.8 4.0 4.5 4.7 4.64
9. Dorsal sepal size(cm) 4.8 4.7 4.7 4.3 4.6 4.62
10. Lateral sepal size(cm) 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.3 4.2 4.34
11. Petal size(cm) 5.0 4.8 4.9 5.0 4.8 4.90
12. Lip size(cm) 1.9 2.4 1.9 2.0 2.0 2.04
13. Spur length(cm) 1.1 1.3 1.6 1.3 1.4 1.34
14. Days to flower
withering
6 7 7 6 6 6.40
15. Vase life(days) *10.03.16
27.03.16
10.3.16
29.03.16
10.3.16
27.03.16
10.3.16
28. 3.16
10.3.16
**31.03.16
*Initial
** Final
#This is the first flash of bloom after planting
10
Project No.1.8.1: Collection, evaluation and maintenance of gerbera germplasm
Duration: Long term
Objectives:
1. To collect different cultivars and hybrids of gerbera from various indigenous and
exotic sources
2. To evaluate both single and double type separately and maintain and multiply the
promising one
3. To determine the region specific performance of promising Germplasm and to
select the Cultivars suitable for cut flower production.
Collection: During the year 2015-16, 11 field grown gerberas viz., Red Gem, Red
Monarch, Jawahar, Delphi, Nadja, Pink Melody, HRSG-OWC, HRSG-IP, HRSG-R-6 and
R-12, HRSG-PCCwere raised in open field using black polythene mulch during
November, 2015.
Evaluation: The earlier six varieties raised under polyhouse viz., Sonata, Renee, Loreto,
Tecta, Elite and Vilassar were investigated for various vegetative and reproductive traits and
their results were presented in the tables (1.8.1.1 to 1.8.1.3) .Among the screened varieties,
the various characters namely, number of leaves per plant, leaf length, leaf breadth ,plant
spread, number of suckers per plant, flowers per plant, duration of flowering ,length of
flower stalk, length and breadth of ray florets, number of flower stalk were found
significantly differed from each varieties. Amongst the six genotypes Elite was found
superior in terms of number of leaves per plant (12.25), However in terms of days to first
flowering (104.75days), flower diameter (10.32cm) and stalk length (48.78cm), variety
Tecta was found superior than other varieties.These charecters were on par with variety
Reene and Loreto respectively.However, maximum number of plant suckers per clump per
year (3.30 nos.), was observed in Leroto.
Table1.8.1.1: Growth attributing characters of evaluated gerbera germplasms at Kahikuchi
(2015-2016)
Variety Number
of
leaf/plant
Leaf
length (cm)
Leaf
breadth (cm)
Plant
spread (cm)
(E-W)
Plant
spread(cm) (N-S)
Number of
suckers/clu
mp/year
Reene 11.75 34.25 12.25 42.75 43.25 2.94 Sonata 10.50 29.25 9.12 39.00 40.25 2.71 Loreto 9.92 23.5 8.12 35.25 36.5 3.20 Vilassar 12.00 28 8.25 30.75 31.25 2.70 Elite 12.25 22.5 9.50 33.50 34.25 2.34 Tecta 9.75 35.75 9.37 40.50 41.5 2.88 S.Ed (±) 1.15 2.15
0.99
2.00 1.67 0.42
11
Table1.8.1.2: Growth attributing characters of evaluated gerbera germplasms at
Kahikuchi Centre (2015-2016)
Table1.8.1.3: Yield attributing characters of evaluated gerbera germplasms at Kahikuchi
centre (2015-2016)
Variety Clours of the flower head Vase life
(days)
Pest and Diseases reaction
(%)
Mite /
Thrips
Foot and root
rot
Reene Creamy white, circular pink
tinge disc, coffee centered
Double 25.40 16.50
Sonata Red orange, distinct ray and
disc florets, disc floret short
and compact
Double
32.50 19.00
Loreto Saffron, distinct ray and
disc florets, coffee centered
Double 50.00 1550
Tecta Ray florets deep yellow,
disc no colour variation
with ray, black centered
Double
32.9 06.00
Elite Orange, disc and ray florets
distinct, center creamy
greenish
Semi double
30.80 10.00
Vilassar Brick red, black centered Double 14.50
12.00
Project No.1.13.1: Collection and evaluation of underexploited ornamentals viz.,
CD(0.05) 2.51 4.70 2.17 4.37 3.60 0.93
Variety Days to
bud
burst
Days to
first
flower
opening
Flower
dia(cm)
Disc
dia(cm)
Length
of flower
stalk(cm)
Dia of
flower
stalk(cm)
No of
flowers/
plant/ye
ar
Reene
93.50 110.25 10.00 1.93 47.75 4.17 15.50 Sonata
98.75 117.00 8.77 2.37 47.00 2.37 14.00 Loreto
98.00 111.75 9.29 2.20 44.50 2.20 12.25 Vilassar
102.25 112.5 8.40 2.62 49.50 3.37 7.12 Elite
103.50 114.25 9.51 2.38 44.75 2.31 7.37 Tecta
82.75 104.75 10.08 2.24 46.75 3.10
16.75 S.Ed (±)
3.18 6.33 0.54 0.30 1.40 0.49 0.62
CD(0.05) 6.94 NS 1.18
0.66 3.05 1.07 1.37
12
Heliconias (Heliconias sp.) and Bird Paradise (Sterlitzia reginae)
Objective:
1. Conducting survey and collecting species and varieties of heliconas, ginger lily and bird
of paradise from all the available sources, both indigenous and exotic types.
2. Evaluation and collection for their performance as cut flowers under appropriate
conditions.
Duration: Five years
(A) Heliconias:
Collection: During the year of reporting 3 unknown species/variety were collected and
raised in the open spaced that accounted a total of eight collections from the center.
Results: In the year (2015-16), various traits on vegetative and reproductive parameters of
five collected Heliconia species/varieties were studied and their mean data were presented in
the tables (1.13.1.1 A, 1.13.1.1B and 1.13.1.1C). Amongst the entries the red haliconia took
maximum days to first emergence of flower (403.6 days).In respect of plant height the Red
Heliconia registered highest plant height (3.65 m), plant spread (2.48m, EW and2.78mNS),
interval of leaf production (65.20days), petiole length (1.17m), maximum number of shoots
(19.20) per clump per year and maximum fresh weight (445.5g) and longevity of spike in
plant(35.4 days). However maximum leaf numbers (14.40), highest length of flower spike
(46.20 cm) and flower stalk (31.40 cm) and maximum number of florets (13.00 nos) per
spike were observed in Heliconia pendula .In respect of market acceptability as cut flower
pink Heliconia,Bihai Yellow Dancer and Bihai Orange Dancer were ranked as 1st 2nd and
3rd respectively.
Table1.13.1.1: Performance of the Heliconiasdays) Species and varieties at Kahikuchi 2015-
16
(A) Vegetative characters
Sl
No Name of
the
spp./variety
Plant
height (m)
Plant
spread (m)
Leaf
length (cm)
Leaf
Breadth (cm)
No of
shoots /plant
Lengt
h of
petiole (cm)
Interva
l of
leaf
produc
tion (days)
Numbe
r of
leaves /plant
Shape, colour
and Texture of leaf
EW NS
1. Bihai
Yellow
Dancer
2.60 1.3
5 1.0
0 45.60 16.20 18.00 36.7 40.20 14.20 Green midrib,
light green,
glossy 2. Bihai
Orange Dancer
1.95 1.1
1 0.9
0 46.20 15.40 16.20 34.6 37.60 12.40 Green midrib,
light green,
glossy 3. Heliconia
pendula 2.46 1.6
5 1.4
0 71.15 13.30 17.20 67.4 37.70 14.40 Green midrib,
light green, rough groove
13
4. Pink
Heliconia 1.54 0.9
0 0.7
5 42.40 12.40 10.50 28.4 40.50 12.40 Green midrib,
light green
5. Red
Heliconia
3.65 2.4
8 2.7
8 36.2 27.8 19.20 117.4 65.20 9.80 Ovate,glossay
(B) Reproductive characters
Sl
No.
Name of the
spp./variety
Length
of
Spike
(cm)
Length
of
flower
stalk
(cm)
Girth
of
spike
at
base
(cm)
Inter
nodal
length
betwe
en
florets
(cm)
No of
florets
/bracts/
spike
Number
of spikes/
clump
/year
Days
from
spike
emerge
nce to
harvest
Longevity
of spike on
plants
(days)
1. Bihai Yellow
Dancer
42.20 31.20 6.10 3.70 6.20 14.50 30.25 24.00
2. Bihai
OrangeDanc
er
39.40 30.60 6.00 4.10 5.20 16.40 20.20 24.50
3. Heliconia
pendula
46.20 31.40 6.20 4.15 13.00 11.40 22.10 20.25
4. Pink
Heliconia
35.40 24.20 6.00 3.40 5.60 8.25 21.30 21.00
5. Red
Heliconia
37.60 30.40. 1.90 2.58 7.80 14.60 40.36 35.4
© Reproductive characters
Sl
No
.
Name of the
spp./variety
Nature
of
arrange
ment of
flowers
Presenc
e or
absence
of
branchi
ng
Interv
al of
spike
produ
ction
Size
of
floret
/bract
(cm)
Colour of
floret/bract
Fresh
weight
of
spike
(g)
Girth
of
spike at
base
(cm)
Incidence of
pests,
diseases and
disorder
1. Bahai
Yellow
Dancer
alternate Un
branch
Term
inal
flowe
ring
9.50/
12.60
Flower &
bract
yellow
245.70 5.45 No pests
incidence
2. Bahai
OrangeDanc
er
alternate Un
branch
Term
inal
flowe
ring
9.00/
11.40
Flower &
bract deep
orange
245.60 4.30 No pests
incidence
3. Heliconia
pendula
alternate Un
branch
- 8.00/
13.40
Bract
brick red&
flowers
greenish
yellow
400.50 4.20 Not
observed
14
4. Pink
Heliconia
opposite Un
branch
Term
inal
flowe
ring
10.00
/19.4
Bract pink
greenish
flower
yellow
265.30 4.10 Not
observed
5.
Red
Heliconia
alternate Un
branch
Term
inal
flowe
ring
17.96
/4.94
Strong
red-A
445.5 4.90 No
incidence
Figure: Unidentified
Figure: Red Heliconia
15
Figure: Bahai yellow Dancer
Figure: Heliconia pendulum
Figure: Pink heliconia Figure: Unidentified
16
Figure: Unidentified
(B) Bird of Paradise: As there are only five available species in the world the availability
of the species is very rare the market. Hence, during 2015-16, no new entries was added
to the earlier sole accession.
Result: Various observations on vegetative and reproductive traits of Strelitzia reginae
during 2015-16 was recorded and their mean data was presented in the table 1.13.1.2 (A),
1.13.1.2 (B) and 1.13.1.2 (C).It was observed that the number of spikes (7.20) increases
when the clump become older and the interval of spike emergence to harvest(40.20 days)
reduced than earlier years .
Table1.13.1.2: Performance of the Strelitzia Species at Kahikuchi 2015-16
(A) Vegetative characters
Sl
No.
Name of the
spp./variety
Plant
height
(cm)
Plant
spread
(m)
Leaf
length
(cm)
Leaf
Breath
(cm)
Petiole
length
(cm)
No of
Suckers
/plant
Nature of
leaf
arrangement
Number
of
leaves
/plant EW NS
1. Strelitzia
reginae(crane
lily)
125.40 1.65 1.20 34.50 16.40 38.20 6.20 Rosette 12.20
(B) Reproductive characters
Sl
No
.
Name of the
spp./variety
Length
of
Spike
(cm)
Length
Of
flower
stalk
(cm)
Girth
of
spike
at
base
(cm)
Inter
nodal
length
betwe
en
florets
(cm)
No of
florets
/bracts/
spike
Numbe
r of
spikes/
clump
/year
Days
from
spike
emergen
ce to
harvest
Longevity of
spike on
plants
(days)
1. Strelitzia 48.50 29.30 13.20 4.10 5.10 7.20 40.20 20.20
17
reginae(cran
e lily)
© Reproductive characters
Sl
No
.
Name of the
spp./variety
Days
from
spike
emerge
nce to
harvest
Presen
ce or
absenc
e of
branch
ing
Interv
al of
spike
produ
ction
Size
of
floret/
bract
(cm)
Colour
of
floret/br
act
Fresh
weight
of spike
(g)
Girth of
spike at
base
(cm)
Incidence of
pests,
diseases and
disorder
1. Strelitzia
reginae(cran
e lily)
32.20 No
branch
ing
35.4 11.50/
15.20
Bracts
orange
and
flower
blue
600.00 12.20 Browning
and
incurving of
leaf margin.
Root rot is
very
prevalent
Experimental view Bird of paradise
Project No.1.14.1: Collection and evaluation of fillers (asparagus, dracaena and ferns)
Duration: 5 years
Year of start at Kahikuchi Centre: 2012
18
Objective: To collect and evaluate the fillers for studing the suitability to grow them under
agro-climatic condition of Assam for the use as potted and cut foliages.
Botanical description of the 22 species of ferns studied has been furnished below
(Table 1.14.1.1. and 1.14.1.2).Pooled results of three years (2012-13, 2013-14 and 2014-15)
showed that NephrolepisRita’s Gold, N. cordifolia (ladder fern), N. biserrata ‘Furcans’
recorded maximumplant height (155.3cm, 100.9 cm and 91.37cm, respectively) and EW
and NSplant spread (between 60cm to122 cm).They alsoshowedsignificant leaf production
(above 100 to 150 no. of leaves /plant /year) as well as good vase life (above 9 days) and
therefore,are suitable as tall potted foliage plant as well as cut foliage (Table 1.14.1.3) Fern
species with smaller plants (height-35-40 cm, plant spread- 35-40 cm) such as Adiantum
formosum, A capillus veneris, N. exaltata “Fluffy Ruffles’, Nephrolepsis biserrata furcans
miniata, Blechnum are suitable asdwarf potted plants.
.
Among the 22 fern species studied the following six fernsviz.,Asplenium
scolopendrium( Wart fern), Nephrolepsis biserrata ‘Furcans’, N. cordifolia,
Nephrolepis‘Rita,s Gold’showed longer vase life in the range of 9.1 to 9.17 days. Similarly
Drynaria quercifolia (Oakleaf fern), Nephrolepsis exaltata “Fluffy Ruffles’,
Rumohraregistered vase life between 8.07 to12.03 days. Thus due to their attractiveleaf
colour and shape, long petioles and sturdy stems, they may be considered suitable as cut
foliage.
Asplenium nidus (Bird’s nest fern)showed slow growth and less leaf production but
attractive sword-shaped light green long-lasting leaves on plant,similar characteristiec
wrew also shown by Drynaria quercifolia(Oak leaf fern/ Basket fern)both were found
suitable for growing as hanging busket.
On the contrary, Rumohra (leatherleaf fern) and Adiantum formosum require cold,
fairly dry climate .They cannot withstand high humidity and temperature, heavy rain of
Assam condition, which resulted high mortality, therefore, they are not suitable for Assam
conditions. Similarly, many native wild ferns of NER, (Species of Adiantum, Lygodium)
although attractive and can used as potted plants but they cannot withstand drought
conditions (October –February) which lead to high mortality. Hence,it was difficult to
maimtain as potted plant without replanting every year. Finally different Fern species have
been categorised into various groups for growing in different situations (Table 1.14.1.10).
Three new unidentified fern species have been collected during 2015-16 (Table 1.14.1.11)
Recommendation: Following different Fern species have been categorised into various
groups for growing in different situations
19
i).As cut foliage: Nephrolepis Rita’s Gold, N. cordifolia (ladder fern), N. biserrata
‘Furcans’
ii).Dwarf potted plants: Adiantum formosum, A capillus veneris, N. exaltata “Fluffy Ruffles’,
Nephrolepsis biserrata furcans miniata
iii).As Tall potted plant: Nephrolepis ‘Rita, s Gold’, N. cordifolia, N. biserrata ‘Furcans’
iv).As Hanging basket: Drynaria, Polypodium diversifolium (Wart’s fern) (epiphytic), A.
nidus, Platycerium alcicorne(Staghorn fern), Davallia fejeensis (Harefoot fern)
v).AsGround cover: Nephrolepis “Rita’s Gold’, N. C, Nephrolepsis biserrata furcans
miniata (finer one) , Nephrolepsis biserrata ‘Furcans’
0
Table 1.14.1.1: Description of different fern species at Kahikuchi (2015-16)
Sl.
No.
Species Common
name
Family Description Use Source
1. Nephrolepis
cordifolia
Wild
Boston
fern,
Tuber
ladder
fern/
Fishbone
fern
Lomariopsidaceae/
Nephrolepidaceae
Tufted fern with three feet (90 cm) tall, feather-like
fronds. The end of each division of the leaf usually split
into two. New plants form on creeping rhizomes. The
fronds are 50–250 cm long and 6–15 cm broad, with
alternate pinnae (the small "leaflets" on either side of
the midrib), each pinna being 2–8 cm long. The pinnae
are generally deltoid, The pinnate vein pattern is also
visible on these highly compound leaves. The edges
appear slightly serrate. The species has erect fronds.
Indoor Potted
plant, ground
cover, cut
foliage
Nursery,
Guwahati
2. Nephrolepis
exaltata
‘Fluffy
Ruffles’ syn N.
exaltata’,
Bostoniensis
compacta’
‘Fluffy
Ruffles’
Lomariopsidaceae/
Nephrolepidaceae
One of the many mutant forms of Nephrolepis exaltata.
The plants have a compact habit that forms dense
clumps with narrowly triangular fronds having a ruffled
appearance. Individual fronds are up 12 inches (30 cm)
long by 4 inches (10 cm) wide.
Indoor Potted
plant, hanging
basket, ground
cover, cut
foliage
- do -
3. Nephrolepis
cordifolia
'Lemon
Buttons'
(Button Sword
Fern) -
Button
sword fern
Lomariopsidaceae/
Nephrolepidaceae
A cultivar of the common sword fern, Nephrolepis
cordifolia. It grows to just under 1 foot tall with 10 inch
long by 1 inch wide fronds bearing a single row of small
rounded leaves (pinnae) on each side of the frond. An
attractive and useful shade plant for an accent in a rock
garden or as a small edging plant.
Indoor Potted
plant, ground
cover, cut
foliage
- do –
4. Nephrolepis
cordifolia
'Lemon
Buttons'
Button
sword
fern-
branching
Lomariopsidaceae/
Nephrolepidaceae
a cultivar of the common sword fern, Nephrolepis
cordifolia. It grows to just under 1 foot tall with 10 inch
long by 1 inch wide fronds bearing a single row of small
rounded leaves (pinnae) on each side of the frond.The
Indoor Potted
plant, ground
cover, cut
foliage
-do-
1
(Button Sword
Fern) – with
branched tips
tips tips have 5-6 branches.
5. Nephrolepis
‘ Rita,s Gold’
‘Ritas
Gold’ TM
Boston
fern
Lomariopsidaceae/
Nephrolepidaceae
Plants have more compact growth than Boston fern,
golden leaved (chartreuse yellow) fronds in clumps. 1-3
feet in height, 1-3 feet in width. Plants have weeping
growth habit, suitable for hanging basket.
Indoor Potted
plant, hanging
basket, ground
cover, cut
foliage
- do -
6. Nephrolepis
‘Verona Lace’
‘Verona
Lace’
Lomariopsidaceae/
Nephrolepidaceae
Very finely cut, light green lacy fronds. Compact plants,
weeping growth habit suitable for hanging basket.
Indoor Potted
plant, hanging
basket, ground
cover, cut
foliage
- do -
7. Nephrolepis
biserrata/
falcata
‘Furcans’
Fishtail
Sword
fern
Lomariopsidaceae/
Nephrolepidaceae
Tufted fern with three feet (90cm) tall, feather-like
fronds, the end of each division of the leaf usually split
into two, like fish-tail. New plants form on creeping
rhizomes.
Indoor Potted
plant, hanging
basket, ground
cover, cut
foliage
- do -
8. Nephrolepis
biserrata
furcans
miniata
Miniature
fishtail
sword
fern/
‘Fancy
Frills’TM
fishtail
fern
Lomariopsidaceae/
Nephrolepidaceae
Tufted fern with shorter and finer feather-like fronds
than Nephrolepsis biserrata /falcata ‘Furcans’. The end
of each division of the leaf usually split into two, like
fish-tail. New plants form on creeping rhizomes.
Indoor Potted
plant, hanging
basket, ground
cover, cut
foliage
- do -
9. Adiantum
capilus-veneris
Maidenhai
r fern
Pteridaceae Short stems bearing clouds of ovate-triangular pinnae;
found growing in shaded, constantly moist, cool
conditions. Dies during dry season.
Indoor Potted
plant, ground
cover
Wild,
Guwahati,
Assam
10. Adiantum Black Pteridaceae Large ovate-triangular pinnae,borne on black stems; Indoor Potted Nursery,
2
formosum
stem
Maiden
hair
fern/Delta
fern /
Diamond
maiden
hair fern
/Giant m.
fern
thrives in shaded, constantly moist, cool conditions plant, Guwahati
11. Polypodium
scolopendrium/
Polypodium
diversifolium
Wart fern Polypodiaceae Large tropical fern growing from widely creeping
woody furry rhizomes. Dark glossy, leathery pinnate
fronds 2-3 ‘long with large bumpy spores. Rhizomes
rise above the rims of the pot mixture.
Indoor Potted
plant, ground
cover, cut
foliage
Wild,
Guwahati,
Assam
12. Lygodium
flexuosum
(Lygodiaceae)
Climbing
fern
Lygodiaceae Climbing fern, unusual in that the rachis, or midrib, of
the frond is thin, flexible, and long, the frond unrolling
with indeterminate growth and the rachis twining
around supports, so that each frond forms a distinct
vine. The fronds may be from 3-12 m long, depending
on the species.
Indoor Potted
plant
Wild,
Guwahati,
Assam
13. Asplenium
nidus syn.
Phyllitis nidus
Bird’s nest
fern
Aspleniaceae Large, sword like, simple fronds growing to 50-150 cm
long and 10-20 cm broad. They are light green, often
crinkled, with a black midrib, and exhibit circinate
venation. Spores develop in sori on the underside of the
fronds. These sori form long rows extending out from
the midrib on the back of the outer part of the lamina
(frond). The fronds roll back as they brown and create a
massive leaf nest in the branches and trunks of trees.
Indoor Potted
plant, hanging
basket,
Wild,
Guwahati,
Assam
14. Asplenium
scolopendrium
Undulating
Hart’s Tongue
Aspleniaceae Clumps of evergreen horizontal tongues, fronds have
gentle waves, or undulations along the front.
Indoor Potted
plant, bedding
Nursery
3
undulatum
Syn. Phyllitis
scolopendrium
undulatum
fern plant, cut
foliage
15. Not identified Plastic
fern
- Small fern with fine, blue green, brittle fronds. Dies
during dry season.
Indoor Potted
plant,
Nursery
16. Rumohra
adiantiformis
Leatherlea
f fern/
Florist
fern
Elaphoglossaceae evergreen fern has triangular-shaped, dark glossy
green, medium-textured leaflets arising from a central
clump. The bold, heavy, leathery fronds, sometimes
three feet high, are of unsurpassed keeping quality when
cut and are much prized for use in floral arrangements.
The fronds of genus Rumohra contain round sori
(reproductive clusters) on the underside of the pinnae
(leaflets) unlike many other ferns which have separate
specialized reproductive fronds. Plants spread by means
of a rusty-red, aboveground stolon and eventually form
dense mats of lacy foliage, making Leatherleaf Fern
ideal forground cover use in shaded locations.Dies
during dry season.
Indoor Potted
plant, hanging
basket, ground
cover, cut
foliage
Nursery
17. Drynaria
quercifolia
Oak leaf
fern/
Basket
fern
Polypodiaceae Characterized by the presence of two types of fronds,
fertile foliage fronds and sterile nest fronds. The dark
green foliage fronds are large, 2–4 feet (0.61–1.2 m)
long, with elongated stalks. They are deeply lobed or
pinnate (14-16 pinnae) winged, and bearsori (structures
producing and containing spores) on the bottom
surfaces.
The nest fronds are smaller rounded leaves basal to the
foliage fronds. They do not bear sori and are persistent,
not being shed after turning brown and dying. They
form a characteristic 'basket' that collect litter and
Indoor Potted
plant, hanging
basket, growing
on tree trunks,
branches, posts
(epiphytic,
lithophytic )
Wild,
Guwahati,
Assam
4
organic debris, hence the common name. The collected
debris decomposes into humus, providing the plants
with nutrients it would otherwise not have received
from being suspended above the ground.
Both frond types grow from rhizomes typically
anchored to a tree or a rock. Drynaria rhizomes are
creeping, densely covered in brown scales. Dies during
dry season
18. Lygodium
palmatum
American
climbing
fern
Lygodiaceae Climbing fern with broad, palm like fronds with 5
pinnate. The rachis or midrib, of the frond is thin,
flexible, and long, the frond unrolling with
indeterminate growth and the rachis twining around
supports, so that each frond forms a distinct vine. Dies
during dry season.
Summer indoor
potted plant,
ground cover
Wild,
Guwahati,
Assam
19. Lygodium spp. A native
Terrestial
fern
Lygodiaceae A Terrestrial fern species found in NE India, with
luxuriant growth in humid spring-rainy season, growth
poor in dry autumn and winter season. Fronds feather
shaped, numbers of pinnae long and narrow,
alternately arranged on midrib, pinnae petioles
encircling the midrib. The topmost pinnae longest; in
immature fronds, the tip of topmost pinna ends in a
inward curling cluster. The basal 10-12 pinnae very
short and rounded. Suitable as shade loving potted plant
and cut foliage filler in flower arrangements. Dies
during dry season.
Summer indoor
potted plant,
ground cover
wild,
Guwahati,
Assam
20. Davallia
fejeensis
Hare’s
foot fern/
deer’s foot
fern
Davalliaceae Epiphytic ferns, with fronds arising from long aerial
furry rhizomes which grow on and over thick bark on
trees or on rock crevices. Roots develop from the
rhizomes, and penetrate into the growth substrate. The
fronds are triangular in shape and about 1½ feet long by
Indoor potted
plants, hanging
baskets
Nursery
5
1 foot wide. They divide into three to four pinnae which
subdivide into many pinnules.
21. Not identified
yet
A native
Terrestrial
fern
- A Terrestrial fern species found in NE India, with
luxuriant growth in humid spring-rainy season, growth
poor in dry autumn and winter season. Two pinnae
arising from nodes in opposite manner. Pinna trident
shaped/three-pronged, with middle one elongated. Dies
during dry season.
Indoor potted
plants for
summer-rainy
season
Wild,
Guwahati,
Assam
22. Staghorn fern
(Platycerium
alcicorne)
Epiphytic Polypodiaceae Tufted roots growing from a short rhizome. Bear two
types of fronds, basal fronds, viz., shield or kidney
shaped, dry, brown fronds that protect the roots, and
fertile fronds which bear spores on their undersurface
and are large, branched, antler shaped,. The upper parts
of fertile fronds are dark green in colour, divided or
branched, and stand erect or upright. There are ten-
twelve or more fertile fronds.
Hanging basket Kalimpong
nursery,
North
Bengal,
Jungles
Assam
0
Table 1.14.1.4: Plant characters of different fern species at Kahikuchi during 2015-16
Sl.
No.
Fern species Nature of
leaf margin
Nature of
leaf tip
Markings,
pigments,
foliar colour
etc
plant
quality
rating
Branching
habit
Presence
of flowers
and type
Tolerance/incidence
of pests and diseases
1. Nephrolepis cordifolia Serrated Straight,
pointed
Green Very Good No branching No
flowers
No
2. Nephrolepsis exaltata
“Fluffy Ruffles’syn
‘Bostoniensis compacta’
Ruffled Curled
inwards
Green Very good No
branching
No
flowers
No pests, some
incidence (%) of leaf
rotting
3. Nephrolepis cordifolia
'Lemon Buttons' (Button
Sword Fern) -
Ruffled Pointed Green Very good No branching No
flowers
No pests and diseases
4. Nephrolepis cordifolia
'Lemon Buttons' (Button
Sword Fern) – with
branched tips
Ruffled Bifurcating,
plume like
tips
Green,
lightgreen
younger
lfronds
Very good Branching
tips
No
flowers
No pests and diseases
5. Nephrolepis ‘ Rita,s Gold’ Ruffled Curled
inwards
Green golden Very good No branching No
flowers
No pests, some
incidence of fungal
leaf rotting
6. Neph ‘Verona Lace’ Ruffled Curled
inwards
Light green Very good No
branching
No
flowers
Rotting of base,
fungal
7. Nephrolepsis biserrata
‘Furcans’
Ruffled Pointed Green Very good No branching No
flowers
No pests and diseases
8. Nephrolepsis biserrata
furcans miniata (finer one)
Serrated Pointed Lighter green Very good No branching No
flowers
No pests and diseases
9. Adiantum capillus-veneris - - Green Medium,
dies in
No
branching
No
flowers
No pests and diseases,
drying up in winter
1
winter
10. Adiantum formosum - - Green fair, dries
up on
receiving
too mch
water
No branching No
flowers
No pests and diseases,
drying up in winter
11. Polypodium
diversifolium(Wart’s
fern)(epiphytic)
Smooth,
leathery
Straight,
pointed
Green No branching No
flowers
No pests and diseases,
drying up in winter
12. Lygodium flexuosum
(climbing fern)
Smooth Straight,
Pointed
Light green Fair,
Dries up in
winter
Climbing
fern,
branching
No
flowers
No pests and diseases,
some leaves dry up in
winter
13. Asplenium nidus
Syn. Phyllitis nidus (Bird’s
nest fern)
Smooth Slightly
rounded
point
Darker green Very good No
branching
No
flowers
No pests and diseases
14 Asplenium scolopendrium
undulatum syn. Phyllitis
colopendrium
undulatum(Undulating
hart’s Tongue fern)
Wavy Slightly
rounded
Green Very good No branching No
flowers
No pests, Blackening
of leaves due to fungal
infectionin winter,
controlled with Saaf
(0.2%)
15. Plastic fern Smooth Pointed Light green good No branching No
flowers
Rotting of leaves,
fungal
16. Leatherleaf fern Ruffled Pointed Green Very good No branching No
flowers
No pests and diseases
17. Oak leaf fern(epiphytic) - Rounded Green foliage
fronds, dry,
brown nest
fronds
Very good
as hanging
basket, on
branch
No branching No
flowers
No pests and diseases
18. Lygodium palmatum
(American climbing fern)
- Pointed Green Good
As potted
Climbing,
branching
No
flowers
Thrives in humid
condition, dries up in
2
plant winter
19. Native Terrestial fern,
(featherlike frond with long
narrow pinnae)
- Pointed Dark green Very good
as potted
plant
No branching No
flowers
Thrives in humid
condition, dries up in
winter
20. Davallia fejeensis - Pointed Green Very good No branching No
flowers
No pests and diseases
21. Native Terrestial fern,
(trident shaped frond)
Smooth Pointed No branching No
flowers
Dries up in winter
22. Staghornfern Smooth Pointed Pale green Hanging
basket,
potted plant
Branched No
flowers
No pests and diseases
noticed so far, fertile
green fronds start
developing and
growing luxuriantly
from spring season
onwards.
0
Table 1.14.1.2: Plant characters of different fern species at Kahikuchi (contd.)
Sl.
No.
Fern species Plant height (cm) Plant spread (cm)
12-13 13-14 14-15 Pooled 12-13 13-14 14-15 Pooled
1. N. cordifolia 76.0 114.0 112.7 100.9 83.33 110.4 108.7 100.81
2. Nephrolepsis
exaltata “Fluffy
Ruffles’
42.5 44.3 42.4 43.07 60.6 64.3 65.0 63.3
3. N. cordifolia
'Lemon Buttons' 62.6 68.4 65.6 65.53 22.4 34.1 33.8 30.1
4. N. cordifolia
'Lemon Buttons' –
branching tips
36.5 39.5 42.4 39.47 46.8 48.9 45.5 47.07
5. Nephrolepis ‘
Rita,s Gold’ 155.8 157.8 152.3 155.3 30.2 36.4 108.4 58.33
6. N. ‘Verona Lace’ 33.6 32.4 34.5 33.5 63.2 65.6 60.0 62.93
7. N. biserrata
‘Furcans’ 67.0 105.7 101.4 91.37 82.8 122.9 118.8 108.17
8. N. biserrata
furcans
miniata(finer one)
21.67 47.4 44.6 37.89 31.67 57.7 54.4 47.92
9. Adiantum capillus-
veneris 12.2 15.8 14.7 14.23 14.5 18.5 17.6 16.87
10. Adiantum
formosum 27.0 30.0 26.8 27.93 27.5 30.3 31.7 29.83
11. Polypodium
diversifolium 52.6 54.6 38.4 48.53 45.6 46.5 44.5 45.53
12. Lygodium
flexuosum 41 42.2 32.3 38.5 6?? 114.4 110.0
13. Asplenium nidus
Syn. Phyllitis
nidus
42 68.2 56.7 55.63 32.2 90.7 88.4 70.43
14. Asplenium
scolopendrium
undulatum syn.
Phyllitis
colopendrium
undulatum
37.0 47.3 43.4 42.56 32.0 40 42.2 38.07
15. Plastic fern 41.0 42.6 35.7 39.6 49.75 49.9 45.4 48.35
16. Rumohra
adiantiformis 27.8 36.2 34.7 32.9 40.33 42.4 35.5 39.41
17. Drynaria
quercifolia 95.5 95.7 94.6 95.27 16 20.2 25.4 20.53
18. Lygodium
palmatum
65 81.4 76.5 74.3 37 39.8 42.2 39.67
19. Lygodium (native
terrestial fern, long
narrow pinnae)
52 58.8 65.0 58.6 38.7 40.6 35.5 38.27
1
20. Davallia fejeensis 32.2 36.8 35.4 34.8 34.6 38.7 35.4 36.23
21. Native Terrestial
fern, trident shaped
pinnae
51.6 57.4 54.6 54.53 14.4 15.6 14.7 14.9
22. Staghorn fern - 49.8 45.7 47.75 - 34.2 33.3 33.75
S. Ed. (±) 1.8 1.37 2.4 1.98
CD (0.05) 3.7 2.76 4.9 4.00
Table 1.14.1.2: Plant characters of different fern species at Kahikuchi (contd.)
Sl.
No.
Fern species Leaf lamina length (cm) Petiole length (cm)
12-13 13-14 14-15 Pooled 12-13 13-14 14-15 Pooled
1. N. cordifolia 72.0 74.2 72.3 72.83 12.0 7.0 6.9
2. Nephrolepsis
exaltata “Fluffy
Ruffles’
45.7 45.4 44.4 45.17 7.5 7.5 7.45 7.48
3. N. cordifolia
'Lemon Buttons' 62.1 60.4 58.8 60.43
4.6 4.6 4.6 4.6
4. N. cordifolia
'Lemon Buttons' –
braching tips
33.6 33.3 32.5 33.13
9.7
9.6 9.4 9.57
5. Nephrolepis ‘
Rita,s Gold’ 33.6 33.8 32.7 33.37 0.8 0.8 0.8 0.8
6. N. ‘Verona Lace’ 33.4 32.1 31.5 32.33 4.2 4.3 4.2 4.23
7. N. biserrata
‘Furcans’ 51.87 55.5 57.6 54.99 33.0 33.5 34.2 33.57
8. N. biserrata
furcans
miniata(finer one)
22.5 21.8 20.8 21.7 6.0 10.4 8.0 8.13
9. Adiantum capillus-
veneris 7.6 7.7 7.5 7.6 3.4 3.4 3.3 3.37
10. Adiantum
formosum 24.0 22.5 20.4 22.3 7.33 7.3 7.1 7.24
11. Polypodium
diversifolium 15.5 50.5 48.4 38.13 23.6 23.6 22.8 23.33
12. Lygodium
flexuosum 4.4 4.7 4.6 4.57 2.8 2.8 2.7 2.73
13. Asplenium nidus
Syn. Phyllitis
nidus
41.5 42.2 40.4 41.37 2.8 2.8 2.6 2.73
14. Asplenium
scolopendrium
undulatum syn.
Phyllitis
colopendrium
undulatum
33.4 33.6 32.5 33.17 19.0 19.0 18.5 18.83
15. Plastic fern 31.0 30.7 28.4 30.03 18.6 18.7 18.4 18.57
16. Rumohra
adiantiformis 35.6 35.8 34.6 35.33 10.5 14.5 14.0 13.0
2
17. Drynaria
quercifolia 76.67 76.9 75.0 76.19 24.4 23.8 24.0 24.07
18. Lygodium
palmatum
7.6 7.4 7.3 74.33 4.0 4.0 4.1 4.0
19. Lygodium(native
terrestial fern, long
narrow pinnae)
25.2 25.3 27.5 26.0 12.67 12.7 14.1 13.17
20. Davallia fejeensis 15.5 15.3 15.5 15.43 5.4 5.5 5.6 5.5
21. Native Terrestial
fern, trident shaped
pinnae
24.4 24.2 25.4 24.67 12.66 12.4 12.2 12.42
22. Staghorn fern - 35.4 34.5 34.95 - 1.5 1.6 1.55
S. Ed. (±) - 2.2 1.20 1.1
CD (0.05) - 4.4 2.43 2.2
Table 1.14.1.2: Plant characters of different fern species at Kahikuchi (contd.)
Sl.
No.
Fern species
Leaf spread
(cm)
Leaves per plant/yr
12-13 13-14 14-15 Pooled 12-13 13-14 14-15 Pooled
1. N. cordifolia 4.5 4.4 4.4 4.43 154.33 166.7 150.4 157.14
2. Nephrolepsis
exaltata “Fluffy
Ruffles’
20.2 20.2 19.5 19.97 112.2 168.4 158.7 146.43
3. N. cordifolia
'Lemon Buttons' 0.7 0.7 0.8 0.73 45.0 162.2 154.4 120.53
4. N. cordifolia
'Lemon Buttons' –
braching tips
6.4 6.4 6.5 6.43 155.33 153.4 150.3 153.01
5. Nephrolepis ‘
Rita,s Gold’ 14.4 14.5 14.2 14.37 48.3 231.3 222.8 167.47
6. N. ‘Verona Lace’ 16.6 16.5 15.4 16.17 32.2 222.0 209.8 154.67
7. N. biserrata
‘Furcans’ 13.07 12.8 12.8 12.89 90.74 105.7 101.7 99.38
8. N. biserrata
furcans
miniata(finer one)
5.2 7.9 7.7 6.93 17.0 158.4 145.4 106.93
9. Adiantum capillus-
veneris 3.0 3.2 3.2 3.13 5.8 28.9 20.4 18.37
10. Adiantum
formosum 5.67 5.7 5.6 5.66 9.67 24.7 23.6 19.32
11. Polypodium
diversifolium 8.8 26.4 25.5 20.23 38.2 62.4 50.7 50.43
12. Lygodium
flexuosum 3.6 3.8 3.8 3.73 10.2 27.8 25.4 21.13
13. Asplenium nidus 7.4 9.1 8.9 8.47 11.7 8.3 7.5 9.17
3
Syn. Phyllitis
nidus
14. Asplenium
scolopendrium
undulatum syn.
Phyllitis
colopendrium
undulatum
6.6 6.7 6.5 6.6 5.4 38.0 35.4 26.2
15. Plastic fern 4.78 4.7 4.7 4.73 25.0 25.0 24.5 24.83
16. Rumohra
adiantiformis 15.7 15.2 15.0 15.3 78.0 71.8 67.4 72.4
17. Drynaria
quercifolia
44 43.8 42.2 43.33
12.2
green
leaves,
10.8
nest/
basket
leaves
10.9
green
leaves,
9.4
nest/
basket
leaves
11.2
green,
10
basket
leaves
11.43,
10.07
18. Lygodium
palmatum
4.4 4.3 4.2 4.3 40.8 42.8 40.5 41.37
19. Lygodium(native
terrestial fern, long
narrow pinnae)
14.4 14.1 14.3 14.27 65.0 63.3 55.0 61.1
20. Davallia fejeensis - 6.5 6.6 - 10.0 11.5 10.75
21. Native Terrestial
fern, trident shaped
pinnae
4.3 4.3 4.3 4.3 66.4 62.2 58.7 62.43
22. Staghorn fern - 4.7 4.5 4.6 - 15.2 14.5 14.85
S. Ed. (±) 0.74 2.2 1.9 1.9
CD (0.05) 1.49 4.4 3.9 3.9
Table 1.14.1.2: Plant characters of different fern species at Kahikuchi (contd.)
Sl.
No.
Fern species
PetioleLength
(cm)
Petiole girth (cm)
12-13 13-14 14-15 Pooled 12-13 13-14 14-15 Pooled
1. N. cordifolia 12.0 7.0 6.9 8.63 0.2 0.24 0.23 0.22
2. Nephrolepsis exaltata
“Fluffy Ruffles’ 7.5 7.5 7.45 7.48 0.5 0.52 0.33 0.45
3. N. cordifolia 'Lemon
Buttons' 4.6 4.6 4.6 4.6 0.20 0.21 0.20 0.20
4. N. cordifolia 'Lemon
Buttons' –braching tips 9.7 9.6 9.4 9.57 0.28 0.30 0.29 0.29
5. Nephrolepis ‘Rita, s
Gold’ 0.8 0.8 0.8 0.8 0.35 0.34 0.33 0.34
6. N. ‘Verona Lace’ 4.2 4.3 4.2 4.23 0.20 0.22 0.23 0.22
7. N. biserrata
‘Furcans’ 1.85 33.5 34.2 0.3 0.30 0.30 0.30
4
8. N. biserrata furcans
miniata(finer one) 6.0 10.4 11.0 9.13 0.35 0.35 0.34 0.35
9. Adiantum capillus-
veneris 3.4 3.4 3.3 3.37 0.3 0.32 0.31 0.31
10. Adiantum formosum 7.33 7.3 7.1 7.24 0.35 0.35 0.32 0.34
11. Polypodium diversifolium 23.6 23.6 22.8 23.3 0.40 0.42 0.40 0.41
12. Lygodium flexuosum 2.8 2.8 2.7 2.77 0.4 0.40 0.41 0.40
13. Asplenium nidus
Syn. Phyllitis nidus 2.8 2.8 2.6 2.73 1.0 1.00 1.1 1.03
14. Asplenium scolopendrium
undulatum syn. Phyllitis
colopendrium undulatum
19.0 19.0 18.5 18.83 0.40 0.4 0.38 0.39
15. Plastic fern 18.6 18.7 18.4 18.57 0.29 0.29 0.29 0.29
16. Rumohra adiantiformis 10.5 14.5 14.0 13.0 0.29 0.28 0.28 0.28
17. Drynaria quercifolia 24.4 23.8 24.0 24.07 0.4 0.42 0.43 0.42
18. Lygodium palmatum
4 4.0 4.1 4.03 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
19. Lygodium(native
terrestial fern, long
narrow pinnae)
12.67 12.7 14.1 13.16 0.2 0.22 0.22 0.22
20. Davallia fejeensis 5.4 5.5 5.6 5.5 0.44 0.40 0.40 0.41
21. Native Terrestial fern,
trident shaped pinnae 12.66 12.4 12.2 12.42 0.28 0.27 0.25 0.27
22. Staghorn fern - 1.5 1.6 1.55 - 0.47 0.46 0.47
S. Ed. (±) - 1.1 0.43 0.77 - 0.03 0.04
CD (0.05) - 2.2 0.87 1.54 - 0.52 0.08
Table 1.14.1.2: Plant characters of different fern species at Kahikuchi (contd.)
Sl.
No.
Fern species
Petiole girth (cm) Leaves per plant/yr
12-13 13-14 14-15 Pooled 12-13 13-14 14-15 Pooled
1. N. cordifolia 0.2 0.24 0.23 0.22 154.33 166.7 150.4 157.14
2. Nephrolepsis
exaltata “Fluffy
Ruffles’
0.5 0.52 0.33 0.52 166.33 168.4 158.7 164.48
3. N. cordifolia
'Lemon Buttons' 0.20 0.21 0.20 0.20 160.0 162.2 154.4 158.87
4. N. cordifolia
'Lemon Buttons' –
braching tips
0.28 0.30 0.29 0.29 155.33 153.4 150.3 153.01
5. Nephrolepis ‘
Rita,s Gold’ 0.35 0.34 0.33 0.34 225.33 231.3 222.8 226.48
6. N. ‘Verona Lace’ 0.20 0.22 0.23 0.22 220.57 222.0 209.8 217.46
7. N. biserrata
‘Furcans’ 0.3 0.30 0.30 0.30 108.67 105.7 101.7 105.36
8. N. biserrata
furcans
miniata(finer one)
0.35 0.35 0.34 0.35 155 158.4 145.4 152.93
5
9. Adiantum capillus-
veneris 0.3 0.32 0.31 0.31 26.37 28.9 20.4 25.22
10. Adiantum
formosum 0.35 0.35 0.32 0.34 20.67 24.7 23.6 22.99
11. Polypodium
diversifolium 0.40 0.42 0.40 0.41 53.67 62.4 50.7 55.59
12. Lygodium
flexuosum 0.4 0.40 0.41 0.40 22.73 27.8 25.4 25.31
13. Asplenium nidus
Syn. Phyllitis
nidus
1.0 1.00 1.1 1.03 5.63 8.3 7.5 7.14
14. Asplenium
scolopendrium
undulatum syn.
Phyllitis
colopendrium
undulatum
0.40 0.4 0.38 0.39 36.0 38.0 35.4 36.47
15. Plastic fern 0.29 0.29 0.29 0.29 20.5 25.0 24.5 23.33
16. Rumohra
adiantiformis 0.29 0.28 0.28 0.28 71.8 78.1 67.4 72.43
17. Drynaria
quercifolia
0.4 0.42 0.43 0.42
12.2
green
leaves,
10.8
nest/bas
ket
leaves
10.9
green
leaves,
9.4nest
/basket
leaves
11.2
green,
10
basket
leaves
11.43,
10.07
18. Lygodium
palmatum
0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 40.8 42.8 40.5 41.37
19. Lygodium(native
terrestial fern, long
narrow pinnae)
0.2 0.22 0.22 0.22 65.0 63.3 55.0 61.1
20. Davallia fejeensis - 0.40 0.40 0.40 8.45 10.0 11.5 9.98
21. Native Terrestial
fern, trident shaped
pinnae
0.28 0.27 0.25 0.27 66.4 62.2 58.7 62.43
22. Staghorn fern - 0.47 0.46 0.46 - 15.2 14.5 9.9
S. Ed. (±) 0.04 0.03 0.03 1.9 2.65 2.29
CD (0.05) 0.08 0.52 0.30 3.9 5.35 4.60
6
Table 1.14.1.2: Plant characters of different fern species at Kahikuchi (contd.)
Sl.
No.
Fern species Leaf longevity (days) Leaf production interval (days)
12-13 13-14 14-15 Pooled 12-13 13-14 14-15 Pooled
1. N. cordifolia 37.5 35.4 34.5 35.8 12.5 15.7 18.7 15.63
2. Nephrolepsis
exaltata “Fluffy
Ruffles’
27 26.4 25.4 26.27 16.5 17.8 18.9 17.73
3. N. cordifolia
'Lemon Buttons'
32 30.6 28.5 35.0 18 20.4 22.4 20.27
4. N. cordifolia
'Lemon Buttons' –
braching tips
37 38.0 35.0 36.67 15 18.5 20.4 17.97
5. Nephrolepis ‘ Rita,s
Gold’
38 36.4 32.3 35.57 15.5 15.4 18.7 16.53
6. N. ‘Verona Lace’ 36 36.7 34.4 35.4 20 22.6 24.5 22.37
7. N. biserrata
‘Furcans’
48 45.2 42.3 45.17 16 15.4 15.0 15.47
8. N. biserrata
furcans miniata
(finer one)
30 32.4 30.5 30.97 17 19.9 20.5 19.13
9. Adiantum capillus-
veneris
27.5 22.3 24.5 24.77 30.0 28.3 30.3 29.53
10. Adiantum
formosum
22 19.1 18.5 19.87 30 32.2 33.7 31.97
11. Polypodium
diversifolium
41 24.2 25.0 30.07 12 15.4 17.6 15.0
12. Lygodium
flexuosum
27 37.8 30.4 31.73 28 29.0 27.8 28.27
13. Asplenium nidus
Syn. Phyllitis nidus
32 25.4 23.5 26.97 30,
during
spring-
rainy
32.1 30.5 30.87
14. Asplenium
scolopendrium
undulatum syn.
Phyllitis
colopendrium
undulatum
38 27.6 27.0 30.87 11 15.8 17.7 14.830
15. Plastic fern 25 29.2 28.3 27.5 30 31.8 34.5 32.10
16. Rumohra
adiantiformis
37.5 20.7 22.4 26.87 15.5 17.5 20.6 17.87
17. Drynaria
quercifolia
45.5 35.4 32.3 37.73 55.5 50.4 55.5 53.80
18. Lygodium
palmatum
30.33 36.2 30.5 32.34 35.5 37.2 38.9 36.07
19. Lygodium (native
terrestial fern, long
narrow pinnae)
33.3 17.6 15.6 22.17 30.5 37.3 35.5 34.43
7
20. Davallia fejeensis 16.7 18.6 17.4 17.57 16.55 15.4 17.7 16.55
21. Native Terrestial
fern, trident shaped
pinnae
13.56 12.7 14.6 13.62 22.89 33.2 35.4 30.50
22. Staghorn fern 22.3 24.5 23.4 17.63 18.4 19.5 18.51
S. Ed. (±) 6.2 1.83 4.96 1.47
CD (0.05) 12.6 3.71 10.04 2.96
Table 1.14.1.2: Plant characters of different fern species at Kahikuchi (contd.)
Sl.
No.
Fern species
Vase life (days)
12-13 1st Yr
13-14
2nd
14-15
Pooled
1. N. cordifolia 9.3 9.1 8.9 9.1
2. Nephrolepsis exaltata “Fluffy
Ruffles’ 8.5 8.3 8.2 8.33
3. N. cordifolia 'Lemon Buttons' 6.0 6.1 6.3 6.13
4. N. cordifolia 'Lemon Buttons' –
braching tips 5.8 5.9 5.7 5.8
5. Nephrolepis ‘ Rita,s Gold’ 9.1 9.1 9.2 9.13
6. N. ‘Verona Lace’ 8.2 8.1 8.0 8.03
7. N. biserrata
‘Furcans’ 9.2 9.2 9.1 9.17
8. N. biserrata furcans
miniata(finer one) 3.4 3.2 3.7 3.43
9. Adiantum capillus-veneris 3.7 3.5 3.6 3.6
10. Adiantum formosum 6.0 6.1 6.0 6.03
11. Polypodium diversifolium 5.0 5.2 5.5 5.23
12. Lygodium flexuosum 4.5 4.4 4.3 4.4
13. Asplenium nidus
Syn. Phyllitis nidus 13.1 9.5 8.9 10.05
14. Asplenium scolopendrium
undulatum syn. Phyllitis
colopendrium undulatum
12.1 12.0 11.9 12.0
15. Plastic fern 7.2 7.1 7.4 7.23
16. Rumohra adiantiformis 12.1 12.1 11.9 12.03
17. Drynaria quercifolia 8.3 8.0 7.9 8.07
18. Lygodium palmatum
2.8 2.5 3.0 2.77
19. Lygodium (native terrestial fern,
long narrow pinnae) 5.3 4.8 4.7 4.93
20. Davallia fejeensis - 7.2 7.0 7.1
21. Native Terrestial fern, trident
shaped pinnae 3.3 3.1 3.0 3.13
22. Staghorn fern - 5.0 4.8 4.90
S. Ed. (±) 0.8 0.17 0.49
CD (0.05) 1.6 0.35 0.98
8
Table 1.14.1.3: Purpose of different fern species
Sl
No.
Purpose Suitable fern species
1. Cut filler Rumohra, Asplenium scolopendrium, A. nidus (above 10 days),
Nephrolepsis biserrata ‘Furcans’, N. cordifolia, Nephrolepis ‘
Rita,s Gold’(9.1 to 9.17 days), Drynaria quercifolia,
Nephrolepsis exaltata “Fluffy Ruffles’
2. Tall potted plant Nephrolepis ‘Rita, s Gold’, N. cordifolia, N. biserrata
‘Furcans’
3. Dwarf potted plant Adiantum formosum, , A capillus veneris, N. exaltata “Fluffy
Ruffles’, Nephrolepsis biserrata furcans miniata, Blechnum
4. Hanging basket Adiantum formosum, Drynaria, Polypodium diversifolium
(Wart’s fern)(epiphytic), A. nidus, Platycerium
alcicorne(Staghorn fern), Davallia fejeensis(Harefoot fern)
5. Ground cover N. “Rita’s Gold’, N. C,., Nephrolepsis biserrata furcans
miniata(finer one) , Nephrolepsis biserrata
‘Furcans’
0
Sl
No.
Fern species Plant ht
(cm)
Plant
spread
(cm)
Lamina
length
(cm)
Lamina
breadth
(cm)
Petiole
length
(cm)
petiole
girth
(cm)
Leaves
per
plant/yr
vase
life
( days)
Form
Foliage
colour(as
per RHS
chart)
Texture
of
leaves
Fern 1
(Tmiankhla- tiger’s
whiskers)
20cm 61.0 13.5 5.0
4.0
0.25
6.5
7-8 Individual cladodes
look like tiny, light
green, hairy, juniper
plant, long lasting
Light
green
Rough
Fern 2
(like tree fern)
66.0 30cm 37.0 21.0
24.0
0.40
13-15
7-8 Hardy, erect, like
tree fern, stout
petioles, pinnate
Dark
green
Rough
Fern 3
(flat, feathery fern)
36.0 32.25 14.0 4.0
14-15
0.30
28.5
7-8
Erect growing fern, Dark
green
Smooth,
fine
feathery
leaves
Table 1.14.1.4: New fern species
collected
1
Pooled results of three years (2012-13 to 2014-15) showed that N. 'Rita’s Gold’, N.
cordifolia ladder fern), N. Biserrata ‘Furcans’ had maximum plant height (155.3cm, 100.9 cm
and 91.37cm, respectively) and EW and NS plant spread (between 60cm to122 cm). They also
showed significant leaf production (above 100 to 150 no. of leaves /plant /year) as well as good
vase life (above 9 days), and therefore are suitable as tall potted foliage plant as well as cut
foliage.
Fern species with smaller plants (plant height 35-40 cm, plant spread 35-40 cm) such as
Adiantum formosum, , A capillus veneris, N. exaltata “Fluffy Ruffles’, Nephrolepsis biserrata
furcans miniata, Blechnum are suitable as dwarf potted plant.
These following ferns: Asplenium scolopendrium( Wart fern), Nephrolepsis biserrata
‘Furcans’, N. cordifolia, Nephrolepis ‘ Rita,s Gold’(9.1 to 9.17 days),Drynaria
quercifolia(Oakleaf fern), Nephrolepsis exaltata “Fluffy Ruffles’, Rumohra (between 8.07
to12.03 days), besides having attractive leaf colour and shape, , are also suitable as cut foliage/
cut greens ,namely due to long vase life, long petioles and sturdy stems. A. nidus (Bird’s nest
fern) having slow growth and less leaf production but attractive sword-shaped light green
long-lasting leaves on plant can be commercialized for hanging basket.
Rumohra (leatherleaf fern) and Adiantum formosum require cold, fairly dry climate, and
cannot withstand high humidity and temperature, heavy rain , high mortality, not suitable for
Assam conditions. Similarly, many native wild ferns of NER, (Adiantum, Lygodium species)
trident fern etc although attractive, and can used as potted plants cannot withstand drought
conditions, high mortality, difficult to sustain as potted plant without replanting every year.
2
ASPARAGUS
Table 1.14.1.5: Description of different asparagus species at Kahikuchi (2015-16)
Sl.
No.
Species Common
name
Description Source
1. Asparagus
densiflorus
‘Meyersii’
Meyers
asparagus/
Foxtail
fern)
A scrambling, slightly woody plant
with upright or trailing branches up
to 1m long. These plants form
large cushions with long, arching
stems more or less densely covered
with dark green, needle-like leaves.
can be used as groundcovers in
shade as well as in full sun, or in
large containers or hanging
baskets. The cultivar ‘Meyersii’
has more upright plants, which
looks very different, with its
compact cat's tail-like fronds.
Nursery
2. Asparagus
densiflorus
‘Sprengeri’ syn.
Asparagus
aethiopicus
‘Sprenger’s
asparagus/
Emerald
fern /
Emerald
asparagus
A scrambling, slightly woody plant
with upright or trailing branches up
to 1 m long. This group of plants
form large cushions with long,
arching stems more or less densely
covered with dark green, needle-
like, bottlebrush like leaves.
Leaves are narrower and less
compact than ‘Meyersii’ The
plants of this group can be used as
groundcovers in shade as well as in
full sun, or in large containers or
hanging baskets.
- do -
3. Asparagus
plumosus / A.
setaceus
Common
Asparagus
Fern, Lace
Fern,
Climbing
Asparagus,
Ferny
Asparagus
A scrambling perennial herb with
tough green stems, which may
reach several meters in length. The
leaves are actually flat leaf-like
cladodes up to 7 mm long by 0.1
mm in diameter, which arise in
clumps of up to 15 from the stem,
making a fine, soft green, flat
feathery (plume-like) fern-like
foliage. Occurring from spring to
autumn, the small greenish-white
bell-shaped flowers are 0.4 cm
long, and are followed by small
green berries, which blacken with
maturity. Initially green, the berries
mature and turn red in the winter.
- do -
3
The root system is a mat of fibrous
roots with bulbous tubers, from
which plants may resprout.
4. Asparagus
aethiopicus
Ethiopian
asparagus
A branching perennial shrub, tough
green aerial stems sparsely covered
with spines. Leaf-like cladodes,
0.8-2 cm long qnd 0.1-0.2 cm
wide, arising in groups of four or
morefrom the stem.small white or
pinkish white flowers in clusters
from stem. Small round berries,
0.5cm dia, green to red in winter.
Mat of fibrous roots with bulbous
tubers, from which plans may
resprout.
5. Asparagus
retrofractus
Syn. A.
macowanii
Pompom
asparagus
fern/ ming
fern)
The foliage consists of pom-poms
of soft needle leaves in
dense/tufted bundles that give a
soft cloudy appearance overall.
Upright, stiff, woody beige stems
have a unique branching structure
that inspired the common name,
zig zag fern
- do -
4
Table 1.14.1.8: Plant characters of different asparagus species at Kahikuchi
Species Leaf
texture
Leaf shape Nature
of leaf
margin
Nature
of leaf
tip
Markings,
pigments,
foliar
colour etc
Spines
1. Asparagus
densiflorus
‘Meyersii’(foxtail
asparagus)
Rough Long, arching
foxtail-likecladodes,
more or less
densely covered
with dark green,
needle-like pinnae
- Pointed Immature
cladodes
lighter
green,older
cladodes
darker,
Yes
2. Asparagus
densiflorus
‘Sprengeri’
Rough Long, narrow
arching stems more
or less densely
covered with dark
green, needle-like,
bottlebrush like
fronds. Narrow,less
compact than
‘Meyersii’ leaf-like
cladodes,v( 0.8-2
cm long and 0.1-0.2
cm wide), arising in
groups of 4-5 from
stem.
- Pointed Emerald
green
Yes
3. Asparagus
plumosus /
setaceus
Fine, soft,
feathery
Flat,feathery/plume-
like cladodes up to
7 mm long by 0.1
mm in diameter,
which arise in
clumps of up to 15
from the stem,
making a fine, soft
green, flat feathery
(plume-like) fern-
like foliage.
- Feathery Green Yes
4. Asparagus
aethiopicus
Fine Leaf-like cladodes,
0.8-2 cm long qnd
0.1-0.2 cm wide,
arising in groups of
four or more from
the stem.
- Pointed Green Yes
5. Asparagus
retrofracus/ A.
makowanii
Soft,
Cloudlike
appearance
Dense, tufted/pom-
poms of soft
needle-like leaves;
Soft cloudy overall
appearance.
- Pointed Younger
cladodes
lighter
green,
older green
No
5
Species Plant
quality
rating
Branching
habit
Presence of
flowers and
type
Tolerance/inci
dence of pests
and diseases
1. Asparagus densiflorus
‘Meyersii’(foxtail
asparagus)
Very good upright or
trailing branches
up to 1 m long
No visible
flowers
No pests and
diseases
2. Asparagus densiflorus
‘Sprengeri’ (Emerald
fern /Emerald asparagus)
Very good upright or
trailing branches
up to 1 m long
No visible
flowers
No pests and
diseases
3. Asparagus plumosus/
setaceus
Very good tough green
aerial
stems/branches,
sparsely covered
with spines
Small greenish-
white bell-
shaped flowers
(0.4 cm long)
from spring to
autumn.
No pests and
diseases
4. Asparagus aethiopicus
5. Asparagus retrofracus/
A. makowani(Ming
fern/Pompom fern/zig-zag
fern)
Very good Upright, stiff,
woody beige
stems which
have a unique,
zig-zag
branching
pattern
No visible
flowers
No pests and
diseases
2
Table 1.14.1.9: Plant characters of different asparagus species at Kahikuchi during 2015-16
Species Plant height (cm) Plant spread (EW) Plant spread (NS)
12-13 13-14 14-15 Pooled 12-13 13-14 14-15 Pooled 12-13 13-14 14-15 Pooled
1. Asparagus
densiflorus
‘Meyersii’(foxtail
asparagus)
68.96 69.3 71.4 69.89 80.1 73.7 75.6 76.47 79.5 78.4 75.4 77.76
2. Asparagus
densiflorus ‘Sprengeri’ 80.8 122.5 125.7 109.67 112.8 71.5 108.4 97.57 110.5 88.6 104.6 101.23
3. Asparagus plumosus
/setaceus 168.98 140.5 179.8 163.09 130.1 102.1 127.8 120.0 129.4 131.1 122.7 127.73
4. Asparagus
aethiopicus
(dwarf one)
63.8 50.7 58.7 57.73 50.0 48.4 53.2 50.53 21.0 33.6 25.7 26.77
5. .Asparagus
retrofracus/
A. makowanii 62.22 56.4 60.5 59.71 50.8 50.6 48.4 49.93 51.3 54.8 47.8 51.30
S. Ed. (±) 1.74 3.15 0.90 1.93 1.77 3.41 0.84 2.01 1.44 1.54 0.87 1.28
C. D. (0.05) 3.80 6.85 1.96 4.20 3.85 7.45 1.84 4.30 3.14 3.36 1.89 2.80
2
Table 1.14.1.6: Plant characters of different asparagus species (Pooled 2012-13, 13-14 and
2014-15)
Species
Cladophyll length (cm) Cladophyll breadth (cm)
12-13 13-14 14-15 Pooled 12-13 13-14 14-15 Pooled
1. Asparagus
densiflorus
‘Meyersii’(foxtail
asparagus)
35.5 36.6 34.5 35.53 6.5 6.3 6.8 6.53
2. Asparagus
densiflorus ‘Sprengeri’ 62.3 63.0 58.7 61.33 19.5 20.4 18.5 19.47
3. Asparagus plumosus
/setaceus 19.6 20.4 20.5 20.17 7.2 7.3 8.4 7.63
4. Asparagus
aethiopicus (dwarf one) 21 55.5 22.6 33.03 5.9 4.5 6.0 5.47
5. Asparagus
retrofracus/
A. makowanii 62 62.5 58.6 61.03 26.1 15.4 13.8 18.43
S. Ed. (±) 1.71 1.20 0.60 1.17 0.37 0.66 0.45 0.49
C. D. (0.05) 3.72 2.62 1.30 2.55 0.81 1.45 0.98 1.08
2
Table 1.14.1.6: Plant characters of different asparagus species (Pooled 2012-13, 13-14 and 2014-15)
Species
Cladophyll number
/plant
Cladophyll
longevity (days)
Cladophyll production
interval (days)
12-13 13-14 14-15 Pooled 12-13 13-14 14-15 Pooled 12-13 13-14 14-15 Pooled
1. Asparagus
densiflorus
‘Meyersii’(foxtail
asparagus)
25.5 28.8 27.4 27.23 18.5 17.6 18.5 18.2 42.3 40.4 43.5 42.07
2. Asparagus
densiflorus ‘Sprengeri’ 107.3 108.1 112.3 109.23 20.0 21.0 22.3 21.1 39.1 36.4 37.8 34.43
3. Asparagus plumosus
/setaceus 130 132.0 123.5 128.5 22.5 21.7 20.5 21.57 33.8 33.5 34.5 33.93
4. Asparagus
aethiopicus (dwarf one) 34.7 39.5 32.8 35.67 22.3 20.7 19.3 20.77 42.5 28.0 30.0 33.50
5. Asparagus
retrofracus/
A. makowanii 38.2 40.0 35.4 37.87 28.0 25.8 26.7 26.83 30.0 40.1 42.6 37.57
S. Ed. (±) 2.97 1.57 0.53 1.69 1.34 1.09 0.54 0.99 2.35 2.56 0.89 19.33
C. D. (0.05) 6.48 3.42 1.16 3.69 2.93 2.37 1.17 2.16 5.12 5.57 1.95 4.21
2
Table 1.14.1.6: Plant characters of different asparagus species (Pooled 2012-13, 13-14 and 2014-15)
Species
Branches per
cladophyll
Cladophyll fresh wt (g) Cladophyll internodal
length (cm)
12-13 13-14 14-15 Pooled 12-13 13-14 14-15 Pooled 12-13 13-14 14-15 Pooled
1. Asparagus
densiflorus
‘Meyersii’(foxtail
asparagus)
274.5 298.61 258.7 277.27 26.1 25.81 22.8 24.90 0.6 0.39 0.37 0.45
2. Asparagus
densiflorus ‘Sprengeri’ 40.7 45.33 48.6 44.88 20.18 20.38 22.4 20.99 0.20 1.42 1.40 1.01
3. Asparagus plumosus
/setaceus 44.45 47.23 45.4 45.69 14.85 14.98 14.1 14.64 0.90 3.14 3.12 2.39
4. Asparagus
aethiopicus (dwarf one) 55.0 50.0 53.2 52.73 4.56 5.67 6.4 5.54 0.60 0.60 0.7 0.63
5. Asparagus
retrofracus/
A. makowanii 12.8 11.7 16.8 13.77 26.87 27.63 28.7 27.73 2.7 0.39 0.42 1.17
S. Ed. (±) 5.44 17.59 0.69 7.91 1.08 0.98 1.00 1.02 0.06 0.12 0.03 0.07
C. D. (0.05) 11.85 38.34 1.50 17.23 2.34 2.14 2.17 2.22 0.14 0.26 0.06 0.15
3
Table 1.14.1.6: Plant characters of different asparagus species (Pooled 2012-13, 13-14 and 2014-15)
Species Petiole length (cm) Petiole girth (cm) Vase life (days)
12-13 13-14 14-15 Pooled 12-13 13-14 14-15 Pooled 12-13 13-14 14-15 Pooled
1. Asparagus
densiflorus
‘Meyersii’(foxtail
asparagus)
24.0 23.8 22.5 23.43 0.30 0.23 0.22 0.25 8.4 7.8 7.5 7.9
2. Asparagus
densiflorus ‘Sprengeri’ 6.0 5.9 5.8 5.9 0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25 6.3 5.7 5.6 5.9
3. Asparagus plumosus
/setaceus 4.5 4.7 4.8 4.67 0.24 0.25 0.24 0.24 5.5 5.3 5.4 5.4
4. Asparagus
aethiopicus (dwarf one) 5.5 5.3 5.4 5.4 0.25 0.27 0.26 0.26 3.2 3.0 3.2 3.2
5. Asparagus
retrofracus/
A. makowanii 16.8 14.7 15.8 15.76 0.30 0.32 0.30 0.31 6.1 5.8 5.5 5.8
S. Ed. (±) 0.60 0.72 0.23 0.52 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.11 0.23 0.09 0.14
C. D. (0.05) 1.31 1.58 0.50 1.13 0.02 0.02 0.02 0.02 0.25 0.50 0.20 0.32
0
Results: Pooled results of three years (2012-13 to 2014-15) showed that Asparagus
plumosus /setaceus had maximum plant height (163.09 cm) and EW and NS plant spread
(120.0 cm and 127.73cm, respectively). It also produced significantly higher (128.5) no.
of cladophylls /plant as well as longest ( 2.39cm) cladophyll internodal length. It is
most widely used as cut foliage. Asparagus aethiopicus and Asparagus retrofracus/A.
makowanii plants were smallest and are suiable as dwarf potted plant. Asparagus
densiflorus ‘Sprengeri’ recorded maximum cladophyll length (61.33cm) and breadth
(19.47cm) Asparagus densiflorus ‘Meyersii’ (foxtail asparagus) recorded maximum
branches per cladophyll and cladophyll fresh weight (277.27 and 24.90g, respectively).
All 5 species are suitable as cut foliage/ cut greens , but Asparagus plumosus /setaceus
and Asparagus densiflorus ‘Meyersii’(foxtail asparagus) most promising.
1
Table 1.14.1.11: Plant characters of Dracaena species at Kahikuchi (2014-15)
Sl.
No.
Species Plant
height
(cm)
Plant
Spread
(cm)
Leaf
lamina
length
(cm)
leaf
spread
(cm)
Petiole
length
(cm)
Petiole
girth
(cm)
1. C. australis
‘Purpurea’ 54.6 38.0 26.0 5.27 6.0 2.0
2 C. australis ‘pink 32.0 31.0 19.0 7.0 -
-
3. D. hybrid var A 37.5 41.6 24.4 7.63 4.94
1.08
4. D. hybrid varB 36.4 31 18.8 7.0 4.14
1.0
5. D. deremensis
‘Janet Craig’ 62.6 57.6 36.0 6.42
No
petiole -
6. D. fragrans
Massangeana 79.0 78.1 42.8 7.29 - -
7. D.compacta 83.8 34.4 16.0 6.0 -
-
8. D. reflexa syn
D.sanderiana 42 29 15 2.25
No
petiole -
9. D. deremensis
(cream and green,
thin linear leaves)
80.0 35.0 17.4 4.67 5.0 1.54
10. D. deremensis
‘Warnecki ‘White
Green’
64.3 41.8 10.4 3.9 3.0 1.2
11. D. deremensis
(dark green leaves) 30.0 25.5 11.7 3.5 3.0 1.2
12. D.godseffiana syn.
D. surculosa 60.0 63.0 9.0 2.9 3.5 0.2
13. D. marginata
’Colorama’ 90.0 70.0 32.0 0.5 - -
14. D. marginata
’Tricolor’ 71.25 68.33 33.0 0.4 - -
2
Table 1.14.1.12: Plant characters of different Dracaena species at Kahikuchi (2014-15)
Sl.
No.
Species Leaves /pl
/yr
Leaf
longevity
(days)
Leaf prodn.
interval
(days)
Vase life
(days)
1. C. australis
‘Purpurea’ 32.5
Not
recorded yet
Not
recorded yet 5
2. C. australis ‘ pink 15.0 ” ”
6
3. D. hybrid var A 37.0 ” ”
14
4. D. hybrid varB 26.2 ” ”
10
5. D. deremensis ‘Janet
Craig’ 25.6 ” ” 14
6. D. fragrans
Massangeana 35.43 ” ” 16
7. D.compacta 25.0 ” ”
8. D. reflexa syn
D.sanderiana 34.5 2 months 3 weeks
9. D. deremensis
(cream and green,
thin linear leaves)
31.50 2.5-3 1 month
10. D.deremensis
‘Warnecki ‘White
Green’
32.4 2.5 1 month 14
11. D. deremensis (dark
green leaves) 20.0 ” ” 17
12. D.godseffiana syn.
D. surculosa 7.3 ” ” 7
13. D. marginata
’Colorama’ 57.5 - - -
14. D. marginata
‘Tricolor” 52 - - -
3
Table 1.14.1.13: Plant characters of Dracaena species at Kahikuchi (2014-15)
Sl.
No.
Dracaena
species
Leaf
texture
Leaf
shape
Nature of
leaf
margin
Nature
of leaf
tip
Markings,
pigments, foliar
colour etc
1. C. australis
‘Purpurea’
Smooth Large, oval Smooth Rounde
d Pink-Red
2. C. australis
‘pink
” Medium sized,
oval
” ” Pink
3. D. hybrid var A ” Medium sized,
oval
” ” Edges creamish-
yellow, centre
brown, grey and
dull green
4. D. hybrid var B ” Medium sized,
oval
” ” Orange-
brown,pink, and
green younger
leaves at the top,
lower mature leaves
green and brown
5. D. deremensis
‘Janet Craig’
Smooth,
glossy
, large and
broad strap-
shaped leaves
in clumps,
” ”
Green
6. D. fragrans
Massangeana
Smooth,
glossy
, large and
broad strap-
shaped leaves
in clumps,
rosette
” ”
(Yellow and green,
large leaves
7. D.compacta Smooth Very tightly
compacted,
clumping
leaves
” ”
Green
8. D. reflexa syn
D.sanderiana
Smooth,
thicker
leaves
with
plastic
feel
long thin,
leaves from
rosette
” ”
cream vertical line
on edges, green in
the middle
9. D. deremensis
(cream & green)
” Medium-thin
leaves, centre
broad, pointed
tip
” ”
Cream and green,
10. D. deremensis
‘Warnecki
‘White Green’
” Medium sized
leaves, centre
broad, pointed
tip
” ”
White Green
4
11. D. deremensis
(dark green
leaves)
” Medium sized
leaves, centre
broad, pointed
tip
” ”
Green, white spots
12. D.godseffiana
syn. D.
surculosa
Smooth Small, oval ” ”
13. D. marginata
’Colorama’
” Very long,
thin,
ribbonlike,
emerging from
one point
” ”
Green, red
14. D. marginata
’Tricolor’
” Very long,
thin,
ribbonlike,
emerging from
one point
” ”
Yellow, green
Table 1.14.1.14: Plant characters of Dracaena species at Kahikuchi (2014-15)
Sl.
no.
Species Plant
quality
rating
Branching habit Presence of
flowers and
type
Tolerance/incidence of
pests and diseases
1. C. australis
‘Purpurea’
Good Not recorded yet Not recorded
yet
Leaf drying and turn
brown, dying during dry
season fungal/bacterial
2 C. australis’
pink
” ” ” Leaf drying and turn
brown, dying during dry
season fungal/bacterial
3. D. hybrid var. A ” ” ” Tolerant
4. D. hybrid var. B ” ” ” Leaf drying and turn
brown, dying during dry
season fungal/bacterial
5. D. deremensis
‘Janet Craig’
” ” ” Not observed yet
6. D. fragrans
Massangeana
” ” ” Large, brown,
watersoaked lesions
7. D.compacta ” ” ” Rotting and drying of
stems, roots, leaves
8. D. reflexa syn
D.sanderiana
” ” ” Not observed yet
9. D. deremensis
(cream and
green, thin
linear leaves)
” ” ” ”
10. D. deremensis ” ” ” ”
5
‘Warnecki
‘White Green’
11. D. deremensis
(dark green
leaves)
” ” ” ”
12. D.godseffiana
syn. D.
surculosa
” ” ” Small brown spots
13. D. marginata
’Colorama’
” ” ” Not observed yet
14. D. marginata
‘Tricolor’
” ” ” Not observed yet
Project 1.14.2: Survey, collection and evaluation of native ornamentals for
commercial cultivation
Duration: Continuing nature (2014-15 onwards)
Objective:
1. Explorative survey and data collection in liaison with NBPGR.
2. Evaluating native ornamentals for commercial potential such as cut flower, cut green, loose
flower, pot plant and other landscape use.
3. The passport data of newly collected species/varieties is to be maintained followed by
obtaining IC/EC number from NBPGR.
4. Recommendation of a variety for commercial cultivation in respective region based on
extensive cultivation should be submitted to the project Coordinator every year along with the
proposal for testing in the other centres, if any.
Result: In the second year (2015-16), collection as well as vegetative propagation of many plant
species from Assam and Meghalaya was done and these were planted at HRS, Kahikuchi. On
being removed from their native habitat (eg. temperate sp), and exposed to high temperature,
many plant species died during floods in and also in dry season. Observations on growth
characters have been by recorded in situ conditions. Due to lack of funds, survey could not be
carried out properly. Growth characters of the following species which were been identified last
year are presented: Tabernaemontana (T. coronaria, T. divaricata, T. heyniana syn
alternifolia), Costus(Jomlakhuti), H. coronarium, (Zingiberaceae),two species of Crinum lily,
6
Philodendron elegans (from Kaziranga), Curcuma aromatica, Homalomena aromatica and
three fern species.
Table 1.14.1.: Plant characters of different plant species during 2015-16
Sl
No.
Species Common
Name
Collected
from
Famil
y
Plant
height
(cm)
Plant
spread
(EW)
Form
1. Tabernaemontana
coronaria,
HRS,
Kahikuchi
(Bonti
baideuhouse)
Apocy
naceae
1.20 75.3
Spreading
2. T. divaricata, Kathanda HRS,
Kahikuchi
Apocy
naceae
3. T. heyniana syn
alternifolia),
Chagoliphul Kaziranga Apocy
naceae
35 36.7 Spreading
4. Hedychium coronarium, White
ginger lily,
butterfly lily
, Takhlei
angouna
(Manipuri),
Dolan
champa
(Assamese)
Assam,
Meghalaya
Zingib
eracea
e
0.9-
2.1m
2.5m
Rhizomatous
Spreading
herb
5. Curcuma aromatica
Keturi
halodhi,
Zeodary
HRS,
Kahikuchi
Zingib
eracea
e
75 40 Erect,
turmeric like
plant
6. Crinum asiaticum var.
Pedunculatum
Poison lily HRS,
Kahikuchi
Amary
llidace
ae
90cm 90cm Large
herbaceous
lily, stout
stem, long,
thick, broad,
green, glossy
leaves
7. Crinum zeylanicum /Crinum ligulatum is native
to Madagascar. It has and
white salverform flowers
with burgundy stamens
tipped with deep red-orange
pollen covered anthers.
- Amary
llidace
ae
50.4
8. Philodendron elegans(from
Kaziranga),
Hagrani tha
lot (Karbi)-
foliage
Kaziranga,
Ranipahar(ka
mrup), karbi
Anglong,
Aracea
e
Climber
7
Jagiroad(Assa
m),
Meghalaya
9. Homalomena aromatica Gandhkoch
u,
gandhsana
Rani, Kamrup Aracea
e
42.7 65.0 Slowgrowing
rhizomatous
Herb with
entire
large,
sagittate
(heartshaped)
, basal
lobes,glossy
leaves, long
petiole
10. Costus Jomlakhuti HRS,
Kahikuchi
Maran
taceae
84.6 82.0 Herb with
long, canelike
stems,
medium sized
green leaves
11. Fern Fern
(Tamangkhl
a) tiger’s
whiskers
FM1*
Meghalaya Pterida
ceae
66.0 61.0
Hardy, like
tree fern,
stout petioles
12. Fern FernFM2* Meghalaya Pterida
ceae
36.0 30cm Erect
growing fern,
fine feathery
leaves
13. Fern Fern FM3* Kamrup,
Assam
28.2 32.25 Herbaceous
monocot,
Leaves look
like Phaius or
parallel
venation,
pointed tip
*(could not identify yet)
8
Table 1.14.2.: Plant characters of different plant species during 2015-16
Sl.
No.
Species No. of
branches
No. of
leaves/
plant
Foliage
colour(as
per RHS
chart)
Texture of
leaves
1. Tabernaemontana (T. coronaria, 6.4 - Green Smooth
2. T. divaricata,
3. T. heyniana syn alternifolia), 7.7 - Green Quite smooth
4. Hedychium coronarium,
1 stem 10.0 Green
Lance shaped,
sharp pointed
tip,20-61cm
long, 5-12.7 cm
wide, arranged
in 2 neat ranks
that run the
length of the
stem. ,
5. Curcuma aromatica
1 stem 32.0
Green with
brown
midrib
Leaves broad,
attractive,
smooth, 20cm
wide
6. Crinum asiaticum var. Pedunculatum
1 stem 8.0 Dark green,
strap-like Smooth
7. Crinum zeylanicum /Crinum ligulatum is native to Madagascar. It has and white salverform flowers with burgundy stamens tipped with deep red-orange pollen covered
anthers.
1 stem 7.0 Green
Narrow, spreading, arching foliage that is medium flat green, almost flat on ground
8. Philodendron elegans (from
Kaziranga), 3 13.0 Green Smooth, glossy
9. Homalomena aromatica 1stem 9.0 Green Smooth, glossy
10. Costus 1stem 35.5 Green Smooth
11. Fern (Tamangkhla) tiger’s whiskers
FM1 - 6.5 Green Rough
12. FernFM2
13-15
Green,
brown
petiole
Rough
13. Fern FM3 28.5 Light green Feathery
7.5 green Quite smooth
9
Table 1.14.3.: Plant characters of different asparagus species during 2014-15
Sl No. Species flowering Durat
ion of
flowe
ring
(days)
Flo
wer
size
(cm)
Flower
colour (as
per RHS
colour
chart)
Attractive
flowering/
foliage
structures
1. Tabernaemontana (T.
coronaria,
Spring to
rainy
- white flower
2. T. divaricata, Spring to
rainy
3. T. heyniana syn alternifolia), Spring to
rainy
4. Hedychium coronarium, Rainy
season
- 15-
30
cm
long
inflo
resec
enc5
.e,
cm
long
flow
ers
white
Fragrant,
Butterfly-
like
flowers
5. Keturi halodhi
Curcuma aromatica Zeodary
1st week
Apr to 2nd
week may
3
weeks
Pinkish
border,
greenish
white
colour,
orange lip,
10 days
vase life
6. Crinum asiaticum var.
Pedunculatum
Poison lily Grand or Giant
Crinum lily, Poison bulb
Oct
planting to
last week
april-3-5th
may
(spring
flg)
1
week,
2-3
days
per
flower
12.5
cm
white Umbel, 6-
8 nos of
flowers
per umbel,
flowrs
tubelike
flaring
into a
crown of
narrow
petals,
purple
stamen
10
7. Crinum zeylanicum /C.
ligulatum is native to
Madagascar. It has and white
salverform flowers with
burgundy stamens tipped with
deep red-orange pollen
covered anthers.
second
week
april-3-5th
may
(spring
flg)
1 -
11/2w
eeks,
2-3
days
per
flower
6.8 white , 11-12
nos. of 10-
12cm dia
white
flowers
per umbel
(18-20cm
dia),
flowers
tubelike
flaring
into a
crown of
6narrow
white
petals,
purple-red
stamen,
yellow
anther
8. Philodendron elegans (from
Kaziranga,
Ranipahar(kamrup), karbi
Anglong, Jagiroad(Assam),
Meghalaya
- - - deeply cut,
pinnate
(lobed/divi
ded)
foliage,
require
humid,
moist
shady
condition,
subtrooica
l climate
9. Homalomena aromatic ca - -
leaves
10. Costus /Jomlakhuti 25.0 5.0 Infloresce
nceand
leaves
11. Fern (Tamangkhla) tiger’s
whiskers FM1
- - - - 12-15cm
long, 5cm
broad
cladodes,0
.4cm
petiole
dia, Light
green,
11
hairy
leaves,
attractive
juniperpla
ntlike
Trailing,
spreading
plant,
putting out
roots at
nodes,
look,
12. Fern FM2 - - - - 37.0cm
leaf
lamina
length,
21cm
lamina
breadth
20-28cm
petiole
length, 0.4
cm petiole
girth,
13. Fern FM3 - - - - Small,
feathery,
flat fern
2. Crop improvement
Project No. 2.2.1: Testing of new genotypes of chrysanthemum for loose flower
Duration: Three years (2015-16 onwards)
Objective: To test the regional performances of the new varieties for loose flower production
and market acceptability.
Results: The experiment will be initiated as and when cuttings will be made available to the
center.
Project No 2.3.1: Testing of genotypes in tuberose for higher flower yield (loose/cut flowers),
concrete yield and resistance to nematode
Duration: Three years (2015-16 onwards)
12
Objective: To compare the performances of the new varieties with local check for loose flower
yield and concrete recovery.
Reports: The rial has been initiated during April, 16 after receiving the bulbs from VCKV;
Kaylani.The crop is now under growing condition.
Project No. 2.4.1: Testing of new genotypes of marigold for loose flower
Duration: Three years (2015-16 onwards)
Objective: To test the comperative performances of the new varieties for loose flower
production and market acceptability.
Result: Among the 17 marigold genotypes screened in 2015-16 (Table 2.4.1.3 and 2.4.1.4), cvs.
Siracole and Pusa Arpita recorded the highest seed germination (78.33 and 78.50 %,
respectively). The tallest plants were produced by the genotypes IIHRMY-4 and IIHRMY-5
(98.2 cm and 95.5 cm, respectively), while IIHRMO-4IIHRFm-1 plants were the shortest (20 cm
and 22.75 cm, respectively). Maximum plant spread was recorded in plants of cv. Hajo Local
Yellow (103.0 cm), while the minimum was recorded in the genotypes IIHRMO-4 and IIHRMO-
2 (30 cm and 33.0 cm, respectively), while IIHRMO-4 produced least no. of a mean primary
branches per plant (7.5).
Earliest 1st fl. bud appearance (30.15 to 32.33 days) was observed in case of cvs.
IIHRMO-3, IIHRMO-4 and Hajo Local Yellow. Earliest 50% flowering (ranging between 50.37
and 55.27 days) in case of cvs. Hajo Local Orange, PNG, IIHRMY-5,UHFS-Fm-Mari-786
Solan. On the other hand, plants of IIHRMO-2 took significantly longer time (54.5 days) for 1st
fl. bud appearance and for 50% flowering (70.68 days).
Pusa Arpita and Siracole recorded the longest flowering duration (78.5 and 78.33 days),
followed by FM-Zafri and IIHRMO-4 with 75.15 and 70.36 days. Pusa Arpita and FM-Zafri
maximum flower yield (865.2 and 850.1 nos./m2). Among the IIHR vars, IIHRMY-5 recorded
good flower yield (610.7 nos./m2).
In 2015-16, IIHR marigold genotypes Arka Agni, Arka Bangara and Arka Alankara
performed well under Assam conditions, showing good vegetative growth and flower
production. The largest flowers were observed in Arka Alankara, Arka Agni and IIHRMY-5
(6.61 cm, 6.66 cm and 6.56 flower dia. respectively). IIHRMY-5 flowers were also the heaviest
13
(fresh weight 7.18 g /flower), followed by Arka Alankara flowers (6.36 g/flower). Hajo Local
Yellow was the most prolific seed producer (215.9seeds/flower).
Seeds of Bidhan-1 and 2 were provided in end of March, 2015. Results are presented in
Table 2.4.1.1 and 2.4.1.2 shows that Bidhan Marigold-1 plants produced smaller flowers
(2.78cm dia) but recorded greater flower yield (216.4nos. /plant).Bidhan Marigold-2 flowers
were bigger (4.12cm dia) but recorded lower flower yield (170.3 nos. /plant).
14
Table 2.4.1.1: Growth performance of new genotypes of marigold at Kahikuchi (March to July, 2015)
Varieties
Description
Germination
(%) Plant
height
(cm)
Plant
Spread
(cm)
Primary
branches
per plant
1st fl. bud
appearance
(days)
First flower
bud
showing
colour
(days)
50%
flowering
(days)
Bidhan Marigold-1 Many, small
yellow flowers
65.0 55.4 47.6 5.2 50.5 62.0 75.0
Bidhan Marigold-2 Large, orange
flowers
63.30 54.1 44.5 7.1 49.1 75.7 84.3
Table 2.4.1.2: Growth performance of new genotypes of marigold at Kahikuchi (March to July, 2015)
Varieties
Flowering
duration
(days)
First
harvest
(days)
No. of
harvests
Flowers
/plant
Flowers
(nos./m2) Flower
dia.
(cm)
Individual fresh
flower
Weight
(g)
Seeds
per
flower
1000
seed
weight
(g)
Bidhan Marigold-1 30.3 67.0 2 60.1 216.4 2.78 1.8 65.5 2.76
Bidhan Marigold-2 30.0 70.7 2 47.8 170.3 4.12 3.24 69.7 9.66
15
Table 2.4.1.3: Growth performance of new genotypes of marigold at Kahikuchi during 2015-16
Varieties
Description
Germn. (%)
Plant
height (cm)
Plant spread
(cm)
Primary
branches per plant
Stem
girth (cm)
1st fl. bud
appearance (days)
50%
flowering (days)
1. IIHRMO-3 Tall, African type, orange 60.5 79.7 73.4 10.5 1.75 30.15 58.67
2. IIHRMY-4 Yellow flower, African
marigold
50.0 98.2 76.0 10.3 0.67 44.13 60.12
3. IIHRMY-5 African marigold,medium
sized yellow fls, long thin
inrolled petals like cigarette ,
longer pedicel cup
50.3 95.5 82.0 11.1 0.63 42.7 55.23
4. IIHRMO-2 Dwarf compact plant,
French, pure orange flowers,
carnation type, late flowering
45.7 25.25 33.0 11.25 0.50 54.5 70.68
5. IIHRMO-4 Dwarf French marigold,
orange , carnation type
flowers, 2-3 rows ray florets,
disc visible
50.0 20.0 30.0 7.5 0.50 32.3 58.57
6. IIHRFm-1 Dwarf,French marigold, compact
plant, red and yellow petals, disc
not prominent , flowers like
IIHR MO-2 but smaller
75.7 22.75 30.8 11.5 0.49 40.13 60.15
7. Siracole Dwarf, medium height,
reddish flowers
80.5 72.5 63.5 18.1 2.08 33.7 58.42
8. PNG Tall, African 80.5 83.37 43.4 9.73 2.00 35.67 52.12
9. Pusa Arpita Medium-tall, French type,
anemone
75.3 60.12 88.1 8.1 2.10 34.6 60.33
10. FM-Zafri Medium-tall, French marigold
type,
72.6 45.4 45.5 12.5 2.17 36.4 64.7
11. Hajo Local
Orange
Tall African, orange 70.17 60.45 88.43 12.96 2.00 35.6 50.37
16
12. Hajo Local
Yellow
TallAfrican, yellow 70.5 81.2 103.5 12.0 2.00 32.33 53.36
13. UHFS-Fm-
Mari-786 Solan
Dwarf, French, flowers light
3-4 orange colour petals
around disc, likeIIHR MO-2
but smaller flowers
65.0 33.5 26.9 11.67 0.45 44.15 55.27
14. African
marigold-Yellow
from IIHR
Tall, African, yellow flowers,
greenish tinge, type
65.8 95.4 56.0 9.3 0.65 46.52 60.36
15. Arka Agni Large, orange (N25C)
petaloid-typemale-sterile
flowers with ligulate florets,
can be multiplied by stem-
cuttings
45.6 44.0 45.0 11.1 0.55 38.9 59.43
16. Arka
Bangara Medium-sized petaloid-sterile
flowers,yellow gold colour
(RHS colour chart No. 12-A
in Yellow Group)
50.13 45.5 47.5 10.5 0.53 40.33 60.12
17. Arka
Alankara Large, yellow (9A) petaloid-
type male-sterile flowers with
ligulate florets. Multiplied by
stemcuttings
50.5 50.8 53.75 12.3 0.56 40.5 63.59
S.Ed. (+) - 2.16 1.41 1.48 0.79 0.06 1.40 2.85
CD (5%) - 4.40 2.87 3.02 1.61 0.12 2.85 5.82
17
Table 2.4.1.4: Growth performance of new genotypes of marigold at Kahikuchi during 2015-16
Varieties
Flowering
duration
(days)
First
harvest
(days)
No. of
harvests
Flowers
/plant
Flowers
(nos./m2) Flower
dia.
(cm)
Individual fresh
flower
Weight (g)
Seeds
per
flower
1. IIHRMO-3 43.57 45.12 2 125 475.12 5.75 7.0 103.7
2. IIHRMY-4 46.17 53.25 2 135.7 521.09 5.50 4.12 128.0
3. IIHRMY-5 55.35 52.45 2 160.7 610.7 6.56 7.18 110.5
4. IIHRMO-2 55.89 73.33 2 124.0 476.2 3.75 2.5 47.7
5. IIHRMO-4 70.36 43.12 2 100.5 385.92 2.9 3.75 40.6
6. IIHRFm-1 53.7 46.7 2 50.4 191.52 3.50 2.69 75.1
7. Siracole 78.33 40.12 3 183.5 690.1 5.33 3.97 110.5
8. PNG 26.7 50.08 2 40.7 154.7 5.30 5.50 189.0
9. Pusa Arpita 78.50 58.74 3 225.3 865.2 2.95 4.48 130.3
10. FM-Zafri 75.15 57.1 3 223.7 850.1 4.37 4.25 93.8
11. Hajo Local Orange 33.13 43.33 2 120.12 454.1 5.30 4.43 203.3
12. Hajo Local Yellow 35.39 48.90 2 130.6 496.3 5.35 3.87 215.9
13. UHFS-Fm-Mari-786
Solan
35.5 48.37 2 50.35 189.3 4.0 2.29 50.3
14. African marigold-
Yellow from IIHR
40.67 60.09 3 75.0 285.1 5.40 4.35 75.5
15. Arka Agni 45.12 50.33 2 115.0 425.3 6.61 4.67 110.4
16. Arka Bangara 44.33 52.50 2 125.1 480.1 5.83 5.0 108.9
17. Arka Alankara 43.77 50.17 2 125.0 470.5 6.66 6.36 103.1
S.Ed. (+) 1.84 1.71 - 2.76 7.25 0.05 0.08 6.74
CD (5%) 3.75 3.59 - 5.62 14.78 0.10 0.17 13.74
18
3. CROP MANAGEMENT
Project No. 3.5.1: Effect of organic supplement on growth and flowering of Dendrobium
orchids
Duration: Three years
Objective: To find out suitable combination of organic supplement on growth and flowering
of Dendrobium orchid
Results: The trial is not initiated due to lack of fund
Project No. 3.5.2 Effect of biofertilizers on growth and flowering of Dendrobium orchids
Duration: Three years
Objective: To find out suitable combination of biofertilizer supplements on growth and
flowering of Dendrobium orchid
Results: The trial is not initiated due to lack of fund
Project No. 3.5.3: Effect of inorganic nutrients on growth and flowering on Dendrobium
orchids
Duration: Three years
Objective: To find out suitable combination of inorganic supplements on growth and flowering
of Dendrobium orchid
Results: The trial is not initiated due to lack of fund
Project No. 3.5.4: Effect of micronutrients on growth and flowering of Dendrobium orchids
Duration: Three years
Objective: To find out suitable combination of micronutrient supplements on growth and
flowering of Dendrobium orchid
Results: The trial is not initiated due to lack of fund
Project No. 3.9.1: Effect of colored shade nets on cut foliage plant (Asparagus plumosus and
Nephrolepis)
Duration: Three years (2015-16 onwards)
Objective: To find out a suitable shade environment for growth and development of Asparagus
plumosus and Nephrolepis for cut foliage production
Result: The experiment was initiated in December 2015 in a small way. Fund have not been
received to purchase sufficient planting materials of Asparagus plumosus and Nephrolepis, to
set up the experiment properly, also, sufficient red and white agroshade nets are not available in
North East India.
19
Project No. 3.9.2: Effect of media incorporated with Pusa Hydrogel on growth and production
ofquality foliage plant (Philodendron)
Duration: Three years (2015-16 onwards)
Objective: To find out a suitable dose of pusa hydrogel thereby to minimize the water
management practices for better growth and production of quality foliage plant
Result: The experiment could not be initiated till May 2016 due to non-availability of Pusa
Hydrogel although effort was made to get it from IARI. . Dr. Anupama, Head, Division of
Agrochemicals, was contacted.
4. PLANT PROTECTION:
Project No. 4.1.1: Disease diagnostic in bulbous ornamentals
Result: Spot survey was conducted to assess the intensity of fungal and bacterial diseases of
bulbous ornamentals during the year 2013-14 in the districts of Kamrup, Chirang, and Nalbari
of Assam. In all the districts, the incidences of sclerotial wilt (Sclerotium rolfsii) in tuberose in
the range of 11-27.5% have been recorded. The incidence of leaf blight caused by Alternaria
polyanthis in var. Prajwal was observed but in case of local single types both Alternaria
polyanthis and Phoma polyanthis were recorded (12.5-28.33%). In the current year (2015-16)
another new fungal pathogen was found to cause severe leaf damage in the form of leaf spot
and leaf blight both prajwal and single type . The causal organism wad identified as Phoma
tuberosa. Incidence of Leaf blight caused by Curvularia spp has also been found in on station
cultivation.
During rabi season, the incidence of Fusarium wilt (Fusarium oxysporum f.sp gladioli)
in gladiolus is very common in Assam. It has been recorded in almost all the growers of
gladiolus flower. Apart from this, the occurrence of botrytis blight (Botrytis gladiolorum),
storage rot (Penicillium gladioli) are also found in mild form.
Three fungal pathogens causing foliar infection in gerbera selected for cultivating in
open conditions were identified. These were viz., (i) Aschochyta gerberae in Red Monarch,
causes brownish blight originate either from the leaf tip or leaf margin and proceeds towards
midrib. (ii) Phoma glomarata in Red Monarch, (cause both blight/ leaf spot) and (iii)
Botryodiplodia theobromae in Red Gem causes leaf spot.
Project No. 4.3.1.: Management of Fusarium wilt in gladiolus
Year of start : 2014-15
Objective : To evaluate an effective control measure against Fusarium
oxysporum f.sp. gladioli in gladiolus
20
Results: Data presented in the table (4.3.1.1) revealed the effectivity of Pre-storage and pre-
planting treatment of corm with captan 0.2% + carbendazim 0.2% for 30 min followed by
soil application of T. harzianum (10 g in 1 kg FYM for 10 m2) which registered less disease
incidence of 16.67 per cent with the highest per cent disease control (63.60%) . Maximum
flower spike length (71.19) and number of corms per plot (28.50) were also registered by this
treatment.
Table 4.3.1.1: Effect of different treatment on Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. gladioli (2015-16)
Treatments (%) corm
sprouting
Per cent
disease
incidence
Per cent
disease
control
Plant
height
(cm)
Spike
length
(cm)
No of
corm
/plot
T1: Pre-storage and pre-planting
treatment of corm with captan
(0.2%) + carbendazim (0.2%) for 30
min
93.33 25.85
(30.53) 43.97 83.77 60.07 24.77
T2: Pre-storage and pre-planting
treatment of corm in Trichoderma
harzianum (106 cfu), 10 g/l for 30
min
91.66
27.22
(31.31)
*
40.99 77.60 68.00 24.10
T3: Pre-storage and pre-planting
treatment of corm with captan
(0.2%) + carbendazim (0.2%) for 30
min + soil application of T.
harzianum (10 g in 1 kg FYM for 10
m2
96.67 16.79
(22.51) 63.60
84.47
71.19 28.50
T4: Pre-storage and pre-planting
treatment of corms in T. harzianum
(106 cfu), 10 g/l for 30 min + soil
application of T. harzianum (10 g in
1 kg FYM for 10 m2 )
91.67 18.29
(26.06) 59.05 81.54 70.20 26.66
T5: Pre-storage and pre-planting
treatment of corm with captan
(0.2%) + carbendazim (0.2%) for 30
min + soil drenching with captan
0.2% + carbendazim 0.2% at 15 days
interval
98.33 18.18
(23.71) 60.59 79.60 67.97 26.00
T6: Pre-storage and pre-planting
treatment of corms in T. harzianum
(106 cfu), 10 g/l for 30 min + soil
drenching with captan 0.2% +
carbendazim 0.2% at 15 days
interval
91.67 19.07
(25.88) 58.67 81.40 68.87 24.66
T7: Control 86.67
46.13
(42.78) - 70.21 63.08 17.00
SEd (±) 2.30 1.20 - 3.64 1.62 1.15
CD (0.05) 5.01 2.62 - NS 3.53 2.52
*Figures in parenthesis are angular transformed value
21
Project No 4.5.1: Management of tuberose leaf blight (Alternaria polyanthi)
Year of start : 2014-15
Objective : To find out an effective chemical for the control of leaf spot of
Tuberose
Methodology: Four sprays at an interval of 7 days starting from the first appearance of the
disease symptom were done. Fifteen (15) nos of leaves per clump of middle five clumps each
plot were considered for calculating the PDI using 0-4 scales. Number of flower effective bulb
and bulblets per meter square were also recorded.
Results: First year’s data presented in the table (4.5.1.1) indicated that the spraying of
Azoxystrobin (Amister) (0.1%) or Difenconazole (Score) (0.1%) or Iprodione + carbendazim
(Quintal) (0.1%) were found effective in managing the leaf spot disease of tuberose, which
recorded significantly lowest disease incidence of 7.83, 8.91 and 10.25 per cent with highest
per cent disease control of 76.24, 73.04 and 68.99, respectively. Maximum number of flower
stalk per meter square of bed area (45.00, 44.07 and 38.90 /m2), maximum number of effective
bulb (109.33, 92.95 and 94.05) and bulb let (176.00, 176.35 and 159.5) from one square metre
of bed area were also rerecorded by these treatments (Table 4.5.1.2).
Remark: The experiment will be repeated in the next year.
Table 1: Effect of fungicidal treatments on leaf blight of tuberose Cv.Local Single (2015-16)
Treatments Dose
(%)
Per cent disease
incidence
Per cent disease
control
T1 : Mancozeb 0.2
20.37
(26.82) 38.37
T2: Chlorothalonil 0.2
15.25
(22.98) 53.85
T3: Tricyclazole
0.1
21.17
(27.39) 35.94
T4 : Iprodione +
carbendazim 0.1
10.25
(16.81) 68.99
T5 : Difenconazole 0.1
8.91
(17.37) 73.04
T6 : Azoxystrobin 0.1`
7.85
(16.24) 76.24
T7: Control -
33.05
(35.09)* -
SEd (±) 1.28 -
CD (0.05) 2.68 -
* Figures in parenthesis are angular transformed value
22
Table (4.5.1.2): Effect of fungicidal treatments on flower and bulb yield of tuberose Cv. Local
Single (2015-16)
Treatments Dose
(%)
No. of flower
stalk /m2
Length of
flower
spike
(cm)
No. of
bulb
let
/m2
No. of
bulb
let
/m2
T1 : Mancozeb 0.2 34.44 83.28 87.53 132.55
T2: Chlorothalonil 0.2
30.09
83.75
80.25 146.30
T3: Tricyclazole
0.1 30.65 84.50 79.20 137.30
T4 : Iprodione +
carbendazim 0.1 38.90 85.15 94.05 159.50
T5 : Difenconazole 0.1 44.07 87.00 92.95 163.35
T6 : Azoxystrobin 0.1` 45.00 87.45 109.33 176.00
T7: Control - 27.97 81.52 62.17 118.10
SEd (±) 1.30 0.83 5.78 5.07
CD (0.05) 3.78 1.77 12.13 10.67
* Figures in parenthesis are angular transformed value
Project No 4.6.1: Management of root rot and root rot (Phytophthora spp) in gerbera
Year of start : 2014-15
Objective : To find out an effective control measure for the management of
foot rot of Gerbera
Methodology: The experiment was conducted with the above treatments in randomized block
design with three replications. Soil application of Trichoderma harzianum @ 500 g/m2 was
done at the time of planting. Soil drenching of respective fungicidal solutions was done after 1
and 2 months of transplanting. Observation on the disease severity i.e PDI was calculated
using 0-4 scale. Number of flower stalk per plot and the length (cm) of the flower stalk were
recorded.
Results: Data presented in the table (4.6.1A.1) revealed that soil drenching with metalaxyl
+ mancozeb @ 0.2% followed by application of Neem cake colonized by Trichoderma
harzianum @ 500 g/m2 one month after the last soil drenching recorded lowest foot rot
disease incidence of 16.37 per cent with high per cent disease control of 62.30 and highest
production of flower stalk (69.60/m2) as well as highest flower stalk length (50.11 cm).
23
Table 4.6.1.1: Effect of different treatments on foot/root of gerbera, Cv. Red Monarch (2015-16)
Treatments % disease
incidence
%
disease
control
No. of
flower
stalk/
plot
No. of
flower
stalk/
m2
Length of
flower
stalk
(cm)
T1:Neem cake colonized by
T.harzianum @ 500 g/m2 + soil
drenching and foliar spray with
captan, 0.3%
25.36
(31.56)* 42.92 125.00 45.70 43.93
T2:Neem cake colonized by T.
harzianum @ 500 g/m2 + soil
drenching with Kresoxim methyl
(Ergon) 0.1 % after one month
24.64
(30.58) 44.94 165.00 56.12 46.43
T3:Neem cake colonized by T.
harzianum @ 500 g/m2 + soil
drenching with Copper
oxychloride, 0.3%, after one
month
19.80
(28.54) 55.43 173.33 58.96 44.93
T4 :Soil drenching with captan, 0.3% +
T. harzianum @ 500 g/m2 29.55
(31.55) 33.50 179.00 60.89 48.80
T5 : Soil drenching with Kresoxim
methyl 0.1 % + T. harzianum @
500 g/m2
29.16
(26.30) 34.37 186.00 63.27 45.40
T6:Soil drenching with Carbendazim
0.2 % + Trichoderma harzianum
@ 500 g/m2
32.30
(35.97) 27.30 174.33 59.30 47.33
T7 :Soil drenching with metalaxyl +
mancozeb, 0.2% + T.harzianum
@ 500 g/m2
18.05
(23.83) 59.38 194.33 66.09 50.60
T8 : Control 44.43
(41.21) - 134.33
43.93 44.33
SEd (±) 1.71 - 10.95 3.83 1.24
CD (0.05) 3.74 - 23.87 8.35 2.71
* Figures in parenthesis are angular transformed value
24
Project No 4.6.2: Integrated management of leaf spot (Phoma gerberae) of gerbera
Year of start : 2012-13
Objective : To find out an effective control measure for the
management of leaf spot of Gerbera
Methodology: The experiment was conducted with the above treatments in randomized
block design with four replications. Spraying of the fungicidal solution was done at 10 days
interval starting the first spray second month after planting. Observation on the disease
severity i.e PDI was calculated using 0-4 scale. Four lower leaves of each four plant from the
middle of each plot were considered for calculating the PDI. Number of flower stalk per plot
and the length (cm) of the flower stalk were recorded.
Results: The resul presented in the tables (6.4.2.1) revealed that the spraying of
difenoconazole (0.05%) or azoxystrobin (0.1%) were found effective for managing the leaf
spot/blight disease of gerbera which recorded significantly lowest disease incidence of 15.62,
and 21.09 per cent with maximum per cent disease control of 67.53, and 55.87 %, respectively
over the check. These treatments also recorded highest flower yield of 65.66 and 62.78 number
of flower stalk from one square metre area, respectively.
Table 4.6.2.1: Effect of different treatments on leaf spot of gerbera, Cv. Red Gem (2015-16)
Treatments
Conce
ntrat
ion
(%)
% disease
incidence
%
disease
control
No. of
flower
stalk/
plot
No. of
flower
stalk/
m2
Length of
flower
stalk
(cm)
T1: Mancozeb 0.2 38.67
(38.44)* 19.06 191.50 50.39 46.35
T2: Propineb 70 WP 0.2 33.61
(35.43) 29.66 209.25 55.80 45.58
T3: Carbendazim 0.2 38.13
(38.13) 20.20 207.25 55.27 45.98
T4: Iprodione + carbendazim 0.2 22.65
(28.40) 52.60 235.00 62.67 47.75
T5: Difenconazole 0.05 15.62
(23.27) 67.53 242.50 65.66 45.70
T6: Azoxystrobin 0.1 21.09
(27.31) 55.87 235.50 62.78 48.25
T7: Control - 47.78
(43.56) - 187.00 49.29 42.15
SEd (±) 0.80 10.08 2.64 0.98
25
CD (0.05) 1.70 21.19 5.57 2.04
* Figures in parenthesis are angular transformed value
5. POST HARVEST TECHNOLOGY AND VALUE
ADDITION
Project No. 5.2: Standardization of postharvest technology of marigold flowers
Project No. 5.2.1: Standardization of packing techniques for flower strings of marigold
flowers
Objective: To standardize the best packing techniques and material for flower string of
marigold flowers for domestic market
Methodology: The marigold strings was placed coiled inside the container where a small
packet of ice wrapped with plastic also placed in the centre of the basket and the thermocol
box. The container thereafter was closed tightly and stored for 0, 1, 2, 3 days. After storage,
the strings were observed for evaluation of their quality.
Result: Marigold cv. Siracole cuttings were planted in Dec, 2015 onwards. Flowering started
from March 2016 onwards. 6.0 kg fresh marigold flowers were accommodated in each
bamboo basket (1 ft x 1.5 ft, 500g) when flat, 6.5 kg when slightly curved. Size of carton box
used was 35 cm L x 19.5 cm B x 20 cm H, which accommodated 15 nos. garlands, each with
25 flowers. Among the three packing treatments, flowers packed in Bamboo basket with
paper lining and ice pack in the centre (two baskets upside down of about 1.5 feet diameter
with 1 foot depth) recorded highest PLW of flowers at 1, 2 and 3 days, respectively,
compared to the other two types of packing containers, probably due to greater ventilation.
On the other hand, packing garlands in Thermocol box and CFB Box recorded lower flower
fresh weight (96.33 % and 97.17 %, respectively) and acceptability on visual basis on the
first day. Freshness decreased with time. The same trend was seen on 2nd and 3rd days.
Marigold garlands at the bottom of all the containers showed wilting, browning and rotting
earlier due to pressure/dead weight, compared to those at the upper layers, as indicated by
lower freshness in Table 5.2.2.2. On Day-3, rotting of flowers in lower portions of the all
three types of containers was observed, but more in case of Thermocol and CFB boxe
26
Table 5.2.2.1: Effect of packaging container and storage duration on flower strings of
marigold (2015-16)
Treatmen
t
Initial fresh
weight of
flowers (kg)*
50 garlands
Final fresh
weight of flowers
(kg)
Change in fresh
weight (during
longevity period)
Physiological
loss in weight
(%) after
storage
C1S1
5.97
5.20 0.77 12.90
C1S2 4.53 1.44 24.12
C1S3 3.84 2.13 35.68
C2S1
5.91
5.28 0.63 10.64
C2S2 4.68 1.23 20.72
C2S3 4.13 1.78 30.17
C3S1
6.20
5.50 0.70 11.32
C3S2 4.89 1.31 21.13
C3S3 4.19 2.01 32.43
S.Ed. (+) - 0.24 0.11 1.74
C.D. (5%) - 0.51 0.24 3.70
C1 Bamboo basket C2 Thermocol box C3 CFB Box S1 Storage for 1 day S2 2 days S3 3 days
Table 5.2.2.2: Effect of packaging container and storage duration on flower strings of
marigold (2015-16)
Treatment
Percent of fresh
flowers
Colour retention
(using mini RHS colour chart-) Acceptability on
visual basis
(1-9 hedonic scale)
C1S1 100.0 Orange (RHS N25C) 9.00
C1S2 83.74 Orange (RHS N25C) 7.67
C1S3 60.07 Faded Orange (RHS) 4.50
C2S1 96.33 Orange (RHS N25C) 8.17
C2S2 70.15 Orange (RHS N25C) 6.35
C2S3 48.44 Faded Orange (RHS) 3.37
C3S1 97.17 Orange (RHS N25C) 8.23
C3S2 73.33 Orange (RHS N25C) 6.27
C3S3 54.45 Faded Orange (RHS) 4.15
S.Ed. (+) 1.90 - 0.38
C.D. (5%) 4.02 - 0.81 C1 Bamboo basket C2 Thermocol box C3 CFB Box S1 Storage for 1 day S2 2 days S3 3 days
27
Project No. 5.3: Standardization of postharvest technology of tuberose flowers
Experiment 5.3.1: Standardization of postharvest treatment using boric acid and sodium
benzoate for improving post harvest life of loose flowers of tuberose
Objective: To find out a suitable dose of boric acid or sodium benzoate for extending shelf
life of loose flowers of tuberose after harvest.
Result: The trial was carried out with fully open fresh flowers of cultivar Prajwal during
March,16 in the laboratory under ambient condition.The computed results revealed a
significant effect of the treatments in respect of percent change of weight, rotting percentage
at the end of storage period , longevity of the florets lot, visual acceptability,colour retension
and flower opening index (table-5.3.1.1 to 5.3.1.3).Amongst the treatment boric acid 5%
(20.10% in 24hrs and 28.23%in 48hrs) and sodium benzoate 50ppm (20.85% in 24hrs and
45.10%in 48hrs) significantly retained the moisture level over control (25.73% in 24hrs and
45.46 %in 48hrs) during the time of investigation.The same level of treatment also
significantly improved the storage period (49.33 hrs and 49.00 hrs respectively) over water
spray control(40.33hrs).It was also interesting to note that same level of treatment recorded
least rotting percentage(13.33% and 2.63%respectively)after 24 hours of storage over
control(20%).The acceptability on viasusal basis,the flower opening index and colour
retention of the stored flowers after 48hrs were also maximum in flowers treated with boric
acid 5% and sodium benzoate 50ppm over water spray control.
Table: 5.3.1.1: Effect of boric acid and sodium benzoate on percent weight change
(2015-16)
28
Treatments Average initial
weight (g) on
day one
Percent weight
change on 2nd
day of storage
Percent weight
change on 3rd day
of storage over
initial
Control (Water spray) 37.30 25.73 45.46
Boric acid 2% 34.33 24.21 42.09
Boric acid 3% 35.80 20.27 41.80
Boric acid 4% 31.83 20.23 40.88
Boric acid 5% 29.80 20.10 28.23
Sodium benzoate 10ppm 27.30 26.86 50.52
Sodium benzoate 25ppm 31.39 22.11 46.88
Sodium benzoate 50ppm 37.50 20.85 45.10
SEd± 0.80 1.20 1.32
CD (0.05) 1.76 2.61 2.81
Table: 5.3.1.2: Effect of boric acid and sodium benzoate on Rotting percentage and
longevity of the flower (2015-16)
29
Treatments Rotting
percentage
Longevity of the
flower (hrs)
Retention of
colours
Control (Water spray) 20.00 40.33 Pale yellow-B
Boric acid 2% 24.00 41.00 Pale yellow-B
Boric acid 3% 24.00 44.33 Yellowish white-D
Boric acid 4% 22.67 46.00 Yellowish white-D
Boric acid 5% 13.33 49.33 Yellowish white-D
Sodium benzoate 10ppm 45.33 45.33 Pale yellow-B
Sodium benzoate 25ppm 24.00 43.33 Pale yellow-Grey
Sodium benzoate 50ppm 02.67 49.00 Pale yellow-Green
SEd± 3.14 1.19
CD (0.05) 6.46 2.50
Table: 5.3.1.3: Effect of boric acid and sodium benzoate on visual acceptability and flower
opening index (2015-16)
Treatments Acceptability on visual
basis (1-9 hedonic scale)
Flower opening index after 48 hrs
(%)
After 24
hrs of
storage
After 48
hrs of
storage
0-closed 1.5-half
open
3-fully
open
Control (Water spray) 4.60 2.33 8.33 11.33 4.66
Boric acid 2% 4.66 1.33 8.33 11.00 5.00
Boric acid 3% 5.33 1.66 9.66 07.66 2.33
Boric acid 4% 5.67 3.00 8.67 13.33 3.00
Boric acid 5% 7.00 3.00 5.00 13.33 6.67
Sodium benzoate
10ppm 2.66 1.00 21.33 02.33 1.00
Sodium benzoate
25ppm 4.67 1.83 12.00 10.00 2.33
Sodium benzoate
50ppm 8.00 2.33 5.33 13.00 6.00
SEd± 0.31 0.26 0.86 1.02 1.42
CD (0.05) 0.76 0.63 1.88 2.13 3.17
30
Experiment No. 5.3.2: Standardization of packing techniques for flower strings of tuberose
Objective: To standardize the best packing techniques and material for flower string of
tuberose flowers for domestic market
Methodology: The tuberose strings will be placed coiled inside the container where a small
packet of ice wrapped with plastic would be placed in the centre in the basket and the
thermocol box. The container thereafter shall be closed tightly and stored for 0, 1, 2, 3 days.
After storage, the strings will be observed for evaluation of their quality.
Result: Tuberose bulbs were planted in February, 2016. Flowering started from April
onwards. Due to lack of sufficient flowers in the field, the experiment could not be
conducted according to the formulated technical programme. Instead, the trial was conducted
in the first year (April-May, 2016) with smaller size of containers, bamboo baskets (36 cm
dia x14 cm ht, 410 g), CFB box (18 cm x 21 cm x 20 cm, 250 g) and Thermocol box (40 cm
x 20 cm x 20 cm, 240 g), using 50 tuberose garlands per container.
The highest PLW (49.57 %) was recorded in tuberose strings packed in Bamboo
basket, followed by Thermocol box and CFB Box, which were at par. Flowers remained
fresh till day 1 in all cases. Tuberose strings packed in bamboo basket remained fresh for a
longer time because of more aeration due to gaps in the basket, compared to the other two
treatments. Wilting, browning of tips and edges of petals and 25 % rotting, especially in the
the lower portions were observed on Day-2 in case of tuberose flower strings packed in
Thermocol box and CFB Box. On Day-3, 30 % rotting of flowers were observed in bamboo
basket.Ice in pack melted and spoiled flowers making them soggy, especially in CFB box
and Thermocol box hastening rotting by facilitating growth of microorganisms.
Table 5.3.2.1: Effect of packaging container and storage duration on flower strings of
tuberose (2015-16)
Treatment
Initial fresh
weight of
flowers (kg)*
50 garlands
Final fresh
weight of
flowers (kg)
Change in fresh
weight (during
longevity period)
Physiological loss in
weight (%) after
storage
C1S1
1.85
1.55 0.30 16.22
C1S2 1.08 0.77 41.62
C1S3 0.93 0.92 49.57
C2S1
1.87
1.32 0.55 29.41
C2S2 1.15 0.72 38.50
C2S3 0.99 0.89 47.32
C3S1 1.18 0.60 33.71
31
C3S2 1.78 1.05 0.73 41.00
C3S3 0.96 0.82 46.06
S.Ed. (+) - 0.11 0.06 3.84
C.D. (5%) - 0.23 0.12 8.13 C1 Bamboo basket C2 Thermocol box C3 CFB Box S1Storage for 1 day S2 2 days S3 3 days
Table 5.3.2.2: Effect of packaging container and storage duration on flower strings of
tuberose (2015-16)
Treat
ment
Percent
of fresh
flowers
Colour retention
(using mini RHS colour
chart-)
Rotting percentage
of flowers
Acceptability
on visual
basis
(1-9 hedonic
scale)
C1S1 100.0 Fan 4 White Group 155C
Greenish White
0% 9.0
C1S2 75.4 Fan 4 White Group 155C
Greenish White
0% rotting, wilting, browning
of tips observed
7.4
C1S3 10.2 Fan 4 White Group N
155D Yellowish White,
tips turnbrown
Browning of edges, in rolling
of petals, 30% rotting from
bottom upwards
6.7
C2S1 80.4 Fan 4 White Group 155C
Greenish White
10%, browning of tips of
petals
8.3
C2S2 50.2 Fan 4 White Group 155C
Greenish White
Wilting, browning of tips and
edges observed, in rolling
petals, 25% rotting (lower
part of container)
6.7
C2S3 - Fan 4 White Group N
155D Yellowish White,
tips turnbrown
45% rotting from bottom
upwards
3.7
C3S1 75.0 Fan 4 White Group 155C
Greenish White
0%, browning of tips of petals 8.4
C3S2 65.2 Fan 4 White Group 155C
Greenish White
Wilting, browning of
observed in top layer, 25%
rotting (lower part of
container)
6.2
C3S3 - Fan 4 White Group N
155D Yellowish White,
tips turnbrown
55% Rotting flowers in lower
portion of container
4.5
S.Ed.
(+)
37.60 - - 0.34
C.D.
(5%)
80.64 - - 0.72
C1 Bamboo basket C2 Thermocol box C3 CFB Box S1Storage for 1 day S2 2 days S3 3 days
32
Experiment 5.3.3: Studies on use of food dyes for tinting in tuberose stems
Duration: Three years (2014-15 onwards)
Objective: To standardize a best level of food dye for tinting tuberose spike in vases
Methodology: The cut stems of tuberose harvested at commercial was placed in vase with
the dye solution so that the cut ends are totally dipped inside the solution. The stems are
allowed to absorb the dye under ambient condition.
Results: The cut stem end of tuberose spikes, harvested at 2-3 buds open stage, were dipped
in two concs of dye solution for 1, 2 and 3 hrs respectively, it was observed that tinting took
place within 30-45 minuts and maximum colour intensity was observed within 3 hours.
Intensity of tinting of petals decreased with time i.e. colour faded with time. Maximum
tinting intensity was observed on 1st day. On the 4th day of dipping, base colour faded while
tint remained on tips and edges. On the 5th day, flowers faded to white in all the Food Dyes
except Raspberry Red, 8% flowers still retained tinge of pink colour.
No visual difference in colour intensity was noted between tuberose spikes dipped for
1, 2 and 3 hrs. Tinting was observed up to the topmost florets of the rachis. Dipping in higher
concentration of dye (8%) resulted in flowers showing more intense or darker colour,
compared to those dipped in lower concentration (4%). In case of Bright Blue food colour,
the base of petals were more evenly coloured while the tips showed more intense colour.
Best tinting effect was seen in case of dipping in Raspberry Red dye, rendering the petals
baby pink and colour was evenly distributed. Orange Red Food Colour resulted in light
orange base colour while the tips and edges were deeper orange. Kesar Yellow had lighter
intensity of tinting compared to Lemon Yellow Food Colour. In general, higher
concentration resulted in deeper colour of both flowers as well as vase solution, viz., the
extra food dye not absorbed by the flowers were left in the solution. The percentage of floret
opening was not affected by the food colour concentration or duration of the dip, and flower
buds opened successively from base to top and still remained fresh till 5th day of putting in
vase solution. Vase life ranging between 5.4 to 5.8 days was recorded in combinations of
food dyes, concentrations and dip durations (5.4 to 5.8 days), while the control recorded 7.1
to 7.2 days (Table: 5.3.3.1).
33
Experiment 5.3.3.1: Effect of food dyes on tinting in tuberose stems
Treatments
Vase
life
(days)
Quantity
of dye
uptake
(ml/stem)
Opening
of
florets
(%) on
5th day
Maximum
floret
diameter
(cm)
Colour
appears
on
flowers
within
(hrs)
Duration
of colour
retention
(remaining
up to)
(days) T1 Control (water)+ no dip
7.1 - 98.4 4.5 - -
T2 Lemon Yellow-4% + 1hr
6.1 4.3 60.0 4.4 Within
30 -45
mins
Till 3rd day
T3 Lemon Yellow-4% + 2
hrs
6.1 4.3 59.0 4.2 ” ”
T4 Lemon Yellow-4% + 3
hrs
5.8 4.4 58.1 4.5 ” ”
T5 Lemon Yellow-8% + 1 hr
5.8 2.2 60.3 3.8 ” ”
T6 Lemon Yellow-8%+2 hr
5.7 2.1 64.0 4.2 ” ”
T7 LemonYellow-8% + 3hr
5.6 2.0 62.7 4.3 ” ”
T8 Kesar Yellow-4% + 1hr
5.8 3.3 85.0 3.5 ” Till 4th day
T9 Kesar Yellow-4% + 2 hr
5.6 3.3 98.2 4.2 ” ”
T10 Kesar Yellow-4%+3hr
5.5 3.3 95.0 4.3 ” ”
T11 Kesar Yellow-8% +1 hr 5.7 3.0 97.1 3.8 ” ” T12 Kesar Yellow-8%+ 2 hrs
5.5 3.1 75.7 4.0 ” ”
T13 Kesar Yellow-8%+ 3hrs
5.4 3.1 78.5 3.8 ” ”
T14 Bright Blue-4% + 1hr
5.7 3.5 53.0 4.39 ” Till 4th day
T15 Bright Blue-4% + 2hr
5.6 3.5 52.1 4.2 ” ”
T16 Bright Blue -4% + 3 hr
5.5 3.5 50.3 4.1 ” ”
T17 Bright Blue -8% +1hr
5.8 3.6 51.0 4.3 ” ”
T18 Bright Blue -8% +2hr
5.6 3.5 49.5 3.9 ” ”
T19 Bright Blue -8% + 3hr
5.5 3.4 50.0 3.6 ” ”
T20 Orange red -4% +1hr
5.7 2.5 55.4 3.8 “ Till 4th day
34
T21 Orange red -4% +2 hr
5.5 3.1 43.1 3.7 ” ”
T22 Orange red -4% +3hr
5.4 3.2 41.6 3.5 ” ”
T23 Orange red -8% + 1hr
5.5 3.2 46.2 3.67 ” ”
T24 Orange red -8%+2hr
5.4 2.8 26.1 3.5 ” ”
T25 Orange red -8% +3 hr
5.4 1.8 25.0 3.1 ” ”
T26 Rose Pink-4% +1hr
5.8 2.2 78.3 4.0 ” ”
T27 Rose Pink-4% + 2hr
5.7 2.4 76.4 3.7 ” ”
T28 Rose Pink-4% +3 hr 5.6 2.6 78.3 3.5 ” ” T29 Rose Pink-8% +1 hr
5.5 2.4 72.2 3.8 ” ”
T30 Rose Pink-8% + 2hr
5.4 2.2 68.4 3.7 ” ”
T31 Rose Pink-8% +3 hr
5.4 2.1 73.0 3.6 ” ”
T32 Raspberry red-4% + 1hr
5.7 2.3 76.1 4.5 ” ”
T33 Raspberry red-4% +2hr
5.7 2.5 74.5 4.4 ” ”
T34 Raspberry red-4%+ 3hr
5.6 3.2 75.5 4.2 ” ”
T35 Raspberry red-8% + 1hr
5.5 4.3 75.0 4.9 ” ”
T36 Raspberry red-8% +2 hr
5.6 2.3 73.5 4.8 ” ”
T37 Raspberry red-8% +3hr
5.5 2.1 75.8 4.7 ” ”
S.Ed. (+) 0.06 0.17 7.20 0.14
CD (5%) 0.13 0.34 14.32 0.29
35
Experiment 5.3.3.2: Effect of food dyes on tinting in tuberose stems (2015-16)
Treatments
Vase
life
(days)
Quantity
of dye
uptake
(ml/stem) till
Total
opening
of florets
on
spike(%)
Maximum
floret
diameter
(cm)
Colour
appears
on
flowers
within (hrs)
Duration
of colour
retention
(remaining
up to)
(days)
T1 Control (water)+ no dip 6.71 0.37 85.0 4.45 - - T2 Lemon Yellow-4% + 1hr 5.93 0.77 75.0 4.42 Within
30 -45
mins
Till 3rd day
T3 Lemon Yellow-4% + 2 hrs 6.07 1.42 74.5 4.37 ” ” T4 Lemon Yellow-4% + 3 hrs
5.87 0.37 70.3 4.54 ” ”
T5 Lemon Yellow-8% + 1 hr 5.73 0.72 70.2 4.38 ” ” T6 Lemon Yellow-8%+2 hr 5.71 1.20 68.7 4.28 ” ” T7 LemonYellow-8% + 3hr
5.50 0.38 62.3 4.17 ” ”
T8 Kesar Yellow-4% + 1hr 5.75 0.69 82.5 4.24 ” Till 4th
day T9 Kesar Yellow-4% + 2 hr 5.76 1.15 80.3 4.22 ” ” T10 Kesar Yellow-4%+3hr 5.42 0.37 80.8 4.10 ” ” T11 Kesar Yellow-8% +1 hr 5.67 0.60 78.5 4.09 ” ” T12 Kesar Yellow-8%+ 2 hrs 5.53 1.07 75.3 4.08 ” ” T13 Kesar Yellow-8%+ 3hrs 5.45 0.38 75.2 3.83 ” ” T14 Bright Blue-4% + 1hr
5.75 0.83 60.0 4.21 ” Till 4th
day T15 Bright Blue-4% + 2hr
5.53 1.19 55.2 4.06 ” ”
T16 Bright Blue -4% + 3 hr
5.48 0.39 54.1 4.13 ” ”
T17 Bright Blue -8% +1hr
5.76 0.78 54.3 4.27 ” ”
T18 Bright Blue -8% +2hr
5.61 1.20 52.7 3.97 ” ”
T19 Bright Blue -8% + 3hr 5.45 0.38 52.2 3.88 ” ” T20 Orange red -4% +1hr
5.57 0.78 56.1 4.03 “ Till 4th
day T21 Orange red -4% +2 hr
5.45 1.19 50.3 3.87 ” ”
T22 Orange red -4% +3hr
5.47 0.39 51.5 3.51 ” ”
T23 Orange red -8% + 1hr
5.55 0.78 46.2 3.84 ” ”
T24 Orange red -8%+2hr
5.40 1.14 36.9 3.79 ” ”
T25 Orange red -8% +3 hr
5.43 0.40 36.5 3.72 ” ”
T26 Rose Pink-4% +1hr 5.89 0.78 77.5 4.25 ” ”
36
T27 Rose Pink-4% + 2hr
5.67 1.16 77.1 3.83 ” ”
T28 Rose Pink-4% +3 hr 5.60 0.39 73.6 3.73 ” ” T29 Rose Pink-8% +1 hr
5.55 0.80 70.5 4.06 ” ”
T30 Rose Pink-8% + 2hr
5.43 1.24 70.1 3.88 ” ”
T31 Rose Pink-8% +3 hr
5.41 0.39 70.7 3.73 ” ”
T32 Raspberry red-4% + 1hr 5.89 0.84 78.9 4.27 ” ”
T33 Raspberry red-4% +2hr 5.77 1.05 75.3 4.21 ” ”
T34 Raspberry red-4%+ 3hr 5.56 0.37 74.2 4.07 ” ”
T35 Raspberry red-8% + 1hr 5.53 0.85 74.4 4.54 ” ”
T36 Raspberry red-8% +2 hr 5.60 1.06 72.8 4.50 ” ”
T37 Raspberry red-8% +3hr 5.45 0.34 75.1 4.31 ” ”
T38 Kalakhatta-4% + 1hr
5.03 0.63 60.0 4.33
T39 Kalakhatta -4% +2hr
5.21 1.02 58.2 4.55
T40 Kalakhatta -4%+ 3hr 5.19 0.26 57.7 4.34
T41 Kalakhatta -8% + 1hr
5.33 0.54 57.3 4.08
T42Kalakhatta -8% +2 hr
5.18 0.98 56.2 4.07
T43 Kalakhatta -8% +3hr
5.05 0.37 55.1 3.81
S.Ed. (+) 6.71
CD (5%)
37
Project No. 5.4.1: Identification of ornamental species for preparation of value added
dry products
Objective: To identify suitable plant species and their various parts for preparation of value
added dry product for domestic and international market
Duration: Three years (2015-16 onwards)
Results: In the initial approach 40 speies of the ornamental plants found in Assam were
identified that could be exploited to be used for preparation of dry products in the dry flower
markets. Some of important plants of the region were listed in the table for this purpose in
the current year.
Table: 5.4.1.1.Plant species suitable for dry flower production (2015-16)
Sl.No. Botanical Name Common name Family Botanical parts may
be used
1. Acacia mangium Manjum Goch Fabaceae Leaf and twisted pods
2. Acacia auriculiformis Australian
wattle
Fabaceae Pods
3. Albizia lebbek Siris Fabaceae Pods
4. Araucaria cookii Australian pine Pinaceae Leaf
5. Allamanda cathartica Allamunda spiny pods
6. Aspergus setaceous Leaves
7. Oroxylum indicum Indian Trumpet
Flower
Bignoniaceae Long dry pods
8. Solidego Golden rod Penicles
9. Callistemon
lanceolatus
Bottle brush Myrtacae Foliage, flower and
seeds
10. Bambosa vulgaris Yellow bamboo Gramenae Leaf and shoots, leaf
sheath
11. Bambosa arundanaria Kota bah Poaceae Stump
12. Melocanna baccifera Muli bah Gramenae Stump and seed
13. Chrysalidocarpus
lutescens
Yellow palm Palmae Leaf and fruit bunch
14. Rhapis excelsa Fish tail palmor
fan palm
Leaves
15. Phoenix datyfoliat Date palm Leaf and fruit
bunches
16. Ficus elastica Rubber tree Moraceae Leaf
17 Asplenium nidus Bird nest fern Polypodiacae Leaf
18. Adiantum Maiden hair fern Polypodiacae leaf
19. Pinus Needle pine Pinaeae Leaf and seed
20. Caesapinia oriarea Diidi Fabaeae Pods
21. Delonix regia Gul mohar Fabaeae Pods
38
22. Ficus religiosa Pipal tree Moraceae Leaves
23. Polianthes tuberosa Tuberose Amaryllidiac
ae
spike with seed pods
24. Gladiolus grandiflorus Gladiolus spike with seed pods
25. Areca catesu Areca nut Palmae Spadix, leaf sheath,
bunch with calyx
26. Cocos nucifera Coconut Palmae Spadix, fruit calyx,
immature
inflorescence, nut
shell,mid rib of leaf
27. Cycus revolta Sago palm cycadacae Foliage
28. Heliconia spp. Flower inflorescence
29. Nephrolepsis exaltata Bostan fern Polypodiacae Foliage
30. Toona ciliata Toon(Poma) Fruit
31. Thuja orientalis Thuja Foliage
32. Gravellia robusta Silver oak Gravelliaceae Foliage
33. Celocia spp. Celocia Amaranthace
ae
Flower
34. Zea mays Maize Poaceae Cob
35. Hydrengia macrophylla Forget me not Flower
36. Luffa cylindrica Sponge gourd Cucurbitacae Fruit net
37. Zinnia elegance Zinnia Asteracae Flower
38. Gomphrena globosa Globe
amarantha
Amaranthaca
e
Flower
39. Helichrysum Paper flower Flower
40. Gloriosa superba Indian glory lily Flower
41. Mimusops elengi Indian medlar Foliage and seed
42. Beloperone guttata Shrimp plant flower
43. Salvia splendens Salvia flower spike
44. Nelumbo nucifera lotus Nymphaeace
ae
Leaf,fruiting
receptacle
Remarks: The trial couldnot be carried out at full length due to late received of technical
programme
Experiment 5.6.1: Effect of holding solutions on keeping quality of orchid spikes
Objective: To find out a suitable combination of post harvest additives to extend the vase of
commercial cultivars of Dendrobium orchids
Year os start: 2015-16 onwards
Results: The trial could not be carried out due to insufficient flower spikes at the time of
reporting
6. Recommended varieties, Technologies, recommendation to the flower growers,
planting material produced and supplied, training Extension programme organized
39
i. Varieties recommended: Ferns:
Following different Fern species have been categorised into various groups for growing
in different situations
i). As cut foliage: Nephrolepis Rita’s Gold, N. cordifolia (ladder fern), N. biserrata
‘Furcans’
ii). Dwarf potted plants: Adiantum formosum, A capillus veneris, N. exaltata “Fluffy Ruffles’,
Nephrolepsis biserrata furcans miniata
iii). As Tall potted plant: Nephrolepis ‘Rita, s Gold’, N. cordifolia, N. biserrata ‘Furcans’
iv).As Hanging basket: Drynaria, Polypodium diversifolium (Wart’s fern)(epiphytic), A. nidus,
Platycerium alcicorne(Staghorn fern), Davallia fejeensis(Harefoot fern)
v). AsGround cover: Nephrolepis “Rita’s Gold’, N. C, Nephrolepsis biserrata furcans miniata
(finer one), Nephrolepsis biserrata ‘Furcans’
Asperagus:
Asparagus plumosus /setaceus is most widely used as cut foliage. Asparagus
aethiopicus and Asparagus retrofracus/A. makowanii plants were smallest and are suiable as
dwarf potted plant. Asparagus densiflorus ‘Sprengeri’ , Asparagus densiflorus ‘Meyersii’
(foxtail asparagus) including all three others species are suitable as cut foliage/ cut greens ,
but Asparagus plumosus /setaceus and Asparagus densiflorus ‘Meyersii’(foxtail asparagus)
most promising.
ii. Technologies, recommendation to the flower growers: Nil
iii. Planting material produced and supplied: Differen kinds of planting materials produced
and supplied by the centre was as follows
Sl.
No
Name of the crop Planting material
produced (in nos)
Planting material
supplied to the
farmers (in nos)
Approx. area to
be covered
(ha)
1. Tuberose (Bulbs)
i. Vaibhav 20,000 12,700 0.3
ii. Prajwal 25,000 14,500 0.45
iii. Phule Rajani 7,000 1.200 0.01
iv. Arka Nirantara 22,000 4,000 0. 16
v. Local single 10,000 2,000 0.03
vi. Sikim Selection 8,000 800 -
2. Gerbera (Suckers)
i. Red Gem 2,000 800 -
40
iv. Training Extension programme organized:
a) 2 nos. of month long training programmes on skill development of Mali (gardener) were
organized in collaboration with EGM (Employment Generation Mission, Govt. of Assam)
where 100 nos of unemployed youth (both male and female) were trained. Among the pass
out trainees about 20 % youths has already been employed by the Stateb Govt. and other
private organizations.
b) Acted as resource person in 50 training organized by the Govt. of Assam, NGOs
including AAU organization like KVK, PFDC, and Department of Horticulture.
V.Seminar/Workshop: Following Seminar/workshop were attended by the Scientists of
Kahikuchi centre during 2015-16 organized by the PFDC, AAU, HRS, Kahikuchi
a. Usage of Agrotextiles for protected cultivation in Assam. Date: 27th December, 2015,
organized by the PFDC, AAU, HRS, Kahikuchi
b. State Level Workshop on “Bamboo based Rain shelter house for year round cultivation of
vegetable crops” Date: March 3-4, 2015, organized by the PFDC, AAU, HRS, Kahikuchi
c. National Seminar on Integrated Development of Horticulture in Sub Tropical & Hill
Region, 17-19th February 2016, organized by CHI, Nagaland and AAU, Jorhat
7. Details of new lines/hybrid developed: Nil
8. Photographs:
ii. Red Monarch 2,000 850 -
iii. HRSG-OWC 5,000 1,500 -
iv. Jowaharlal 800 500 -
3. Heliconia (Rhizomes)
i. Bihai Yellow 800 100 -
ii. Bihai Orange 800 100 -
iii. Pink Heliconia 600 100 -
iv. Heliconia Pendula 1,000 200 -
4. Day Lily (Hemirocalis spp.)
Bulbs
1,000 800 -
5. Spider Lily (Hymenocalis) 3,000 1,000
41
Neph’Rita’ Gold A. scolopendrium
N. cordifolia
Lemon Buttons’
N. biserrata furcans
Drynaria quercifolia
Birds nest fern
Lucky bamboo GW
Lucky bamboo GY
D. deremensis ‘Janet Craig’
42
9. Meteorological data
Table: Meteorological data of the centre (2015)
Month
Mean Temp [°C] *Relative
Humidity [%]
Rainfall
[mm]
Rainy days
Maximum Minimum Average Mean No.
January, 2015 26.9 9.3 79.9 2 2
February, 2015 30.7 8.5 72.2 12 5
March, 2015 33.4 13.3 64.1 29 6
April, 2015 35.0 18.3 77.4 179 24
May, 2015 35.3 20.9 82.8 330 23
June, 2015 35.1 22.9 87.1 244 21
July, 2015 36.0 24.1 83.7 237 14
August, 2015 36.4 24.6 87.9 292 19
September, 2015 35.9 23.1 86.7 219 11
Tinting in Tuberose
43
* Average of morning at 8-30 a.m. and evening at 5-30 pm
Mean annual rainfall of the area: 2000 mm (35 years)
Climatic aberration: About 21.70 % less amount of total rainfall
Agro climatic region: Himalayan zone
Soil parameters:
pH: Acidic
Texure: l-sicl
Status of major nutrient: Mostly medium (N 272-544kg/ha), medium (P2O5 22.5-56.0
kg/ha) and medium (K2O 136-336 kg/ha))
October, 2015 34.7 19.3 82.2 9 4
November, 2015 30.7 13.9 81.3 1 1
December, 2015 27.4 7.9 83.7 12 3
Total - - - 1566 133
120
10. Research publications:
(i) N. Mazumder., S.K.Borah and P. Hatibaruah (2016) Management of leaf spot
Alternaria polyanthI of tuberose through fungicides. Ind. J agric. Sci (Accepted)
(ii) K. K. Deka., M.R.Das., P Bora and N. Mazumder (2015) Effect of sowing dates and
spacing on growth and yield of ccyamopsis tetragonoloba) in subtropical climate of
Assam. Ind. J agric. Sci. 49(3): 250-254
(iii) N.Mazumdar., S.K. Borah. and P. Hatibarua (2016) Management of leaf and flower
blight (Alternaria dianthi) of marigold using chemicals. Paper presented in “National
Seminar on Integrated Development of Horticulture in Sub Tropical & Hill Region, 17-
19th Feb 2016, pp-11-12
(iv) S.Gogoi J.Talukdar, J.Bora and P.Hatibaruah (2016) “Growth and yield of Cabbage
as influenced by drip fertigation (Brassica oleracea var.capitata L.)” National seminar on
“Integrating Agri –Horticultural and Allied Research for food and Nutritional Security in
the Era of Global Climate Disruption”4-6th March Imphal organized by ICAR Research
Complex for NEH Region,Umiam, Meghalaya.
(v)P.Hatibarua, S.K. Borah and N.Mazumdar (2016) “Pulsing packaging technology for
distant marketing ofcut Gerbera Flowers” National seminar on Integrated Development
of Horticulture in Sub tropical & Hill region 17-19th Feb 2016
(vi) P. Hatibarua,, S.K. Borah and N.Mazumdar (2016) “Packaging of loose flowers of
marigold for distant marketing” National seminar on Integrated Development of
Horticulture in Sub tropical & Hill region 17-19th Feb 2016
(vii)P. Hatibarua,S.K. Borah and N.Mazumdar and Sarat Saikia (2016) “Effect of
fertilizer doses on plant growth and flowering lilium cv. Brunello under assam
condition.” National seminar on Integrated Development of Horticulture in Sub tropical
& Hill region 17-19th Feb 2016
(viii) P. Hatibarua,S.K. Borah and J.Talukdar (2015)Influence of bulb size on sustainable
planting material production of Amaryllis (Hippeastrum species)- a potential commercial
flower of Assam.
(ix)P. Hatibarua, S.K. Borah, M. Bhagawati, J.Talukdar (2015) Effect of plant size on
growth and flower production of Phaius tankervilleae (Banks ex L'Herit.) Blume-an
endangered orchid of North east india. National seminar on “Bioprospecting of Gene
Pool: Trends and Prospects in North East India”26-27th June2015 organized by
D.K.College, Mirza
121
(x) P. Hatibarua J. Talukdar (2016) “Identification of disease in Phaius tancarvilleae
(Banks ex L’Herit.) Blume-an endangered orchid of ” 6th International Conference “Plant
Pathogen and people, Feb.23-27,2016 ,New Delhi,India PP.229. Poster Presentation
(xii) P. Hatibarua J. Talukdar (2016) “Survey and detection of disease of Amaryllis
(Hippeastrum species)- a potential commercial flower of Assam” 6th International
Conference “Plant Pathogen and people, Feb.23-27,2016 ,New Delhi,India PP.230. .
Poster Presentation
Abstracts :
(i) Juri Talukdar., N. Mazumdar., S, Gogoi., S.Pathak.and J.Bora (2016) “ Disease
complex in capsicum (Capsicum annum) under protected cultivation in Assam. National
Seminar on Integrated Development of Horticulture in Sub Tropical & Hill Region 17-
19th Feb 2016, pp-8
Popular articles of Dr.(Mrs) Preeti Hatibarua
1. “Gerbera phulor krishi pranali “Article Training Manual “Vigyan sammat paddhatir
pulibari sthapon aru parichalona (Raising of modern & scientific nursery), published by
KVK , Kamrup, Assam pp 11-12 on May 2010
2. “Gladiolus phulor krishi paddhati” Article Training Manual “Vigyan sammat paddhatir
pulibari sthapon aru parichalona (Raising of modern & scientific nursery), pp 15,
published by KVK, Kamrup, Assam on May 2010
3. Tabot kora phul goshor rupon pronali” Article in Training Manual “Vigyan sammat
paddhatir pulibari sthapon aru parichalona (Raising of modern & scientific nursery, pp
20-21, published by KVK, Kamrup, Assam on May 2010
4. "Lily – a promising bulbous ornamental"Article published in Souvenir published in
Agriculture & Allied Expo., 2010, Diphu, Assam
Popular articles of Dr. N.Mazumder
(i) Sak pachalir pradhan Bemar Smuha aaru niyantran (Major diseases of vegetables
and their management.
(ii) Phular pradhan Bemar Smuha aaru niyantran (Major diseases of flowers and their
management.
(iii)Preparation of Bordeaux mixture (1%)
Published Book:
Nomita Laishram, Arvinder Singh and Preeti Hatibarua (2011) Division of corms for
increasing planting material of gladiolus: cut corm segments increase number of
propagules. Published as Paperback by Lambert Academic Publishing in August 26,
2011.
122
Technical Bulletin: Few Technical bulletins were published under HMNEH during
2011
(a) Gladiolus karm utpadanar bivinnha dikh (Different aspects on gladiolus corm
production) By Preeti Hatibarua, S.K.Borah, N. Mazumder and A.Sarma
(b) Rajanighandha kandha utpadanar prayojanio dikhsamuh (Important aspects on
tuberose bulb production). By S.K.Borah, N. Mazumder, Preeti Hatibarua and A.Sarma
(c) Cultivation of Dendrobium Ochid By S. K. Bora
11. Training/symposium/seminar attended by the project staff
(i) Dr. N.Mazumder attended One week training programme on ELISA and PCR
based detection of viruses in Plant Virology Unit, Division of Pl.Pathology, IARI,
New Delhi ,w.e.f 14-19th nov,2011, organized by DFR
(ii) Dr. N.Mazumder and Dr.(Mrs) Preeti Hatibarua attended One day (16.03.12)
seminar INDPAK National Conference organized by Indian Institute of packing,
Bombay at Guwahati,Assam
12. NRC item procured in the year 2015-16: All items as sanctioned
S. K. Borah,
PI, AICRP (F) S.Saikia
Chief Scientist,
HRS, Kahikuchi