Vol. 10, Special Issue 7 (2021)

Author(s):
Laveti Gowthami, Anindita Roy and V Vijaya Bhaskar

Abstract:
Floriculture is fast emerging money spinning component in agriculture sector, growing at a modest rate throughout world and has become the potential agricultural activity especially for the developing countries. With the fast changing trends and a constant urge for new innovative products in domestic and leading international flower markets, the flower growers have to respond rapidly. Cut flower production has the potential to increase income for both small and large farms. Varieties should be selected as per the vibrant color, sturdy stems, yield, quality, disease resistance, and vase life. Generally environmentally sound production techniques, increased farm diversification, and increased farm income are basic parts of sustainable farming systems. Specialty in cut flower production and marketing offers both small- and large-scale growers a way to increase the level of sustainability on their farms. The tremendous variety of plants that can be grown as cut flowers allows growers to choose those which are well-adapted to the farm site and grown without large offsite inputs. This variety also makes diversity in both production and marketing possible and the high value of cut flowers can increase farm income. Cut foliages are those which stay green for long time, retain their appearance and do not shed leaves or berries. Ferns and Asparagus are popularly used in flower arrangements because of its year-round availability and good vase life. The commercial cultivation of these cut foliage species helps in improving the livelihood of farmers.