Evaluation of China Aster (Callistephus chinensis L. Nees) Cultivars for Growth, Yield and Quality Parameters under Southern Telangana Zone

Abstract

China aster (Callistephus chinensis L. Nees) is a half hardy annual flowering plant and is grown for cut as well as for loose flowers. The cut flowers are used in flower arrangements, vases, bouquets, for interior decorations, etc. The loose flowers are widely used for making garlands, for decorations, for worship and are also used in social functions.
 The present investigation was carried out during the year 2018-19 and 2019-20 at farm of Regional Agricultural Research Station, Palem, Telangana to evaluate the china aster varieties under Southern Telangana zone with respect to growth, flower yield and quality characters. Data in this study revealed that, all characteristics varied significantly among the varieties. Maximum plant height, plant spread, number of primary and secondary branches and number of leaves were observed in the variety Phule Ganesh White and the least was recorded in the variety Arka Archana.
 The variety Phule Ganesh White took less number of days for flower bud initiation (52.05), minimum number of days to 50% flower opening (61.63) while more number of days were recorded in the variety Kamini (56.32 and 68.53, respectively). Maximum stalk length was recorded in Phule Ganesh White (20.60 cm) and minimum was recorded in Arka Archana (9.80 cm). In addition, Flower diameter was more (7.00 cm) in both the varieties Phule Ganesh White and Local White, while minimum was detected in Phule Ganesh Pink (5.40cm). The variety Phule Ganesh White recorded more number of flowers per plant (48.7), more flower yield per plant (111.00 g plant-1) and maximum flower yield per hectare (4.64 tha-1). Whereas lowest number of flowers per plant (37.40), flower yield per plant (57.50 g plant-1), flower yield per hectare (2.08 t ha-1) was observed in Arka Archana. Maximum vase life for cut flower (6.00 days) were recorded in Arka Poornima and least was observed in Arka Aadya (3.70 days). Maximum shelf life for loose flowers was recorded in Phule Ganesh White (3.20 days) and minimum was recorded in Arka Archana (1.70 days).