Studies on the growth and yield parameters of different genotypes of China aster (Callistephus chinensis Nees.)*

摘要

China aster is a half hardy annual commercial and ornamental flower crop grown for its flowers. The flowers of aster are used for flower arrangement, interior decoration, garland making, worshipping. The present investigation was conducted during rabi season of 2006–2007 and 2007-2008 at Hi-tech Horticulture project, Saidapur Farm, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad with the objective to evaluate suitable varieties on growth and flower yield of china aster under transitional tract of northern Karnataka. Among the varieties, Phule Ganesh Violet recorded the highest plant height, plant spread and number of primary branches at different stages of plant growth. While the variety Violet Cushion recorded the least plant height, plant spared. Phule Ganesh Purple was found superior for secondary branches per plant. The weight of 100 flowers was maximum (975.37 g) in variety Phule Ganesh White, whereas minimum (351.37 g) was noticed in variety Mixed Variety Local. The maximum flower yield (37.91 t / ha) was recorded in Phule Ganesh White and it was lowest Mixed Variety Local (9.97 ton). Number of cut flower production was maximum (55.43) in variety Phule Ganesh Violet and the lowest number of cut flower per plant was produced in Shashank (40.92). The maximum number of cut flowers (40.76 lakh / ha) was recorded in Phule Ganesh Violet and minimum number of cut flower (31.64 lakh / ha) was recorded in variety Kamini.