Floriculture Today - June 2017 by S Jafar Naqvi

Floriculture Today June 2017

June 2017

Floriculture Today

Floriculture Today June 2017

June 2017

Floriculture Today

Contents 10

Editorial

v 10

Cover Story Flower & Nursery Business in Bangladesh India could be the partner in growth — Report by M.B. Naqvi with Media inputs

14 ‘Bangladesh Flower Fest 2017’ Strengthens Farmer-consumer Ties

v 16

LANDSCAPING Bio Aesthetic Planning, Gardening and Environmental Landscaping of Eco-tourism — Sadhana Swastika and Dr.V. M Prasad

v 22

Floral Art The Charm of Floral Rangoli for all Occasions — Alka Singh, Neelima Palagani, Bahubali Mangave and Sumathi Tatte

Event Report

28 Multifunctional City Comfort These are the Outdoor Trends of 2017/2018 v Nursery Business 32 Satyadeva Nursery A brand for quality & best service

v 36

Greening Tree Spotting in Tiruppur How Tiruppur, India’s knitwear hub, is now weaving a green cover for the entire district — Pankaja Srinivasan

v Flower Info 40 Banksia: A Potential Flower Crop for Floricultural Industry 44 Poinsettia–some Interesting Facts v Legislation 42 India to Create Law Against Supply of Counterfeit Seeds

Floriculture Today June 2017

v 49 50 50 54

NEWS Blooming problem for jasmine: it smells bad Pakistani Growers Learn about Hydroponics India: Organic Farming Takes Shape in Bengal Light in the Greenhouse–quality or quantity?

June 2017

Floriculture Today

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Chief Editor: S Jafar Naqvi Consulting Editor T.V. Satyanarayanan Chief Coordinator: M.B. Naqvi

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Floriculture Today June 2017

Edit orial

arden lovers and tourists made a beeline to Royal Hospital Grounds in Chelsea as Britain’s most prestigious flower show opened for a week-long grand spectacle of latest trends in world floriculture, unveiled by participants who included renowned designers and nurseries from all over the world. Discerning visitors were particularly looking for new plants and flowers since the show is famous for their exclusive display. Ahead of the opening to the public, the Queen and the Duke of Edinburg had a preview tour of the show. Other members of the royal family also explored the displays, a novelty this time being a garden set within “urban landscape,” featuring street art. With exotic exhibits aplenty, there was something for everyone at Chelsea Flower Show 2017. The limited number of tickets, which were in high demand, were sold out in quick time. First held in 1913, the Chelsea Flower Show is an annual horticultural exhibition organized by the Royal Horticultural Society. Ron Willmore, grounds manager at Royal Hospital, who has worked on the site for over 30 years, quoted records to say when the show started over 100 years ago, it was just in a few tents and was nothing like this grand spectacle it is today. The site for the show is itself steeped in history. It measures 66 acres of land in total which house both Ranelagh Garden and South Grounds. The Ranelagh Garden has changed dramatically over the years. Originally in Georgian times, they were pleasure gardens where one had to pay an entrance fee. Many trees planted at that time are still there, and some of the trees are said to be 160 years old. What makes the event the most keenly awaited one are the elaborate care, innovative ideas and artistic skills that go into the creation of exhibits. They are evident from what some of the participants had to say about the preparations for the event. They were speaking to the media on the eve of the show. Sara Raven, one of the participants, says she has been thinking about how to make colour dynamic and inspiring in a garden and so when the opportunity came to create a garden for the Chelsea show, along with interior designer Tricia Guild, she jumped at it. This is one of the five BBC–Radio 2 Feel Good Gardens, modelled around the five senses. Radio 2 presenter Anneka Rice was the third person in involved in designing this garden. Eight flower beds were planned, each 2.5 Sq. metres, devoted to different groups of colours, moving from warm at the front through rich hues with a couple of back beds devoted to brilliant colours of purple, orange and bright pink with generous quantities of lime green. From thousands of annual seedlings, growing under glass, some hardy varieties were forced to flower four weeks early for Chelsea, while some half hardies were forced to flower some ten weeks before their natural flowering season. Young florist Sarah Hampton, another enthusiastic participant, hopes her career would bloom after being chosen to compete at Chelsea. She studied floristry at Bath College and she has two other Bath students as her partners. They were among 16 florists from across UK chosen for this year’s final of the Young Florists of the Year competition. “I love floristry because it brings happiness to people . . .” says Sarah. Kirstenbosch Garden in Cape Town in South Africa is another participant. Its creation is a display piece from all ten botanical gardens in South Africa.. The display’s backdrop was South Africa’s national flower, the Protea, and various fynbos plants. Proteas and finbos are a key feature of the plants indigenous to southern winter rainfall region. The exhibits covered a 100 sq metre area with a 2.5 metre backdrop. Comments are welcome at: editorialmtpl@gmail.com

Views expressed by individuals and contributors in the magazine are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Floriculture Today editorial board. Floriculture Today does not accept any responsibility of any direct, indirect or consequential damage caused to any party due to views expressed by any one or more persons in the trade. All disputes are to be referred to Delhi Jurisdiction only. .....Editor

June 2017

Floriculture Today

Cover Story

Flower & nursery business in Bangladesh

India could be the partner in growth

A couple buying red roses from a shop in Dhaka’s flower market in Shahbagh area on Valentine’s Day

– Report by M.B. Naqvi with Media inputs

s we live in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, it is important for Bangladesh to sustain the phase of development, where citizens are made aware of the impact of innovation in different sectors such as agriculture Horticulture, Floriculture business, social progress, ready made garments, education, health care, , tourism, energy sector etc. Located at a critical injunction based on global economy and global technology, what Bangladesh does in the next ten years in the field of innovation would determine its economy for the future. The country’s policy makers, Agri entrepreneurs and industrialists need to start thinking about what technological up gradations truly means for Bangladesh. Flower exports M. Ahsan Ullah, president of Bangladesh Flower Growers and Exporters Association, said the country exports flowers and foliage worth nearly Tk 2.0 billion annually. However, flower farmers, traders and nursery owners very optimistic about the pattern of demand, from new generation consumers and playing to adopt modern ways of growing high

Floriculture Today June 2017

quality plants, foliage, trees and looking towards India and Thailand as a model for their future expansions and upgradation of their nurseries. When visited several nurseries in around Dhaka, the mood of the Industry is very clear go ahead with newer visitors. The major components for them are the good shading nets, tissue culture plants, variety of pots, gardening accessories, for which they are looking towads India, higher duties on such products import is to be addressed by their Government. As par the trade sources, few Indian companies are sending their products through a third country, to avoid higher duties on Indian products. We can export our products to Bangladesh 1000 times more, if the duty would reduced as per other countries tariff of 5% to 10% maximum said a plastic product exporter from India. We are very keen to import high quality tissue culture plants from Pune, as the Indian labs are supplying plants to over 30 countries, said Green Garden Agricultural Company importing gardening tools, shading nets, and pot plants from India and facilitated my visit to nurseries in Dhaka.

Cover Story

People are seen buying flowers at flower market in Dhaka’s Shabagh area on Valentine’s Day.

“Your idea to start an exhibition and conference in Dhaka on hightech horticulture is fantastic and we all support you in organising this proposed event here” said Mohammad Raisul Islam. “The demand for low cost modern Greenhouses is also on rise, and we import it from western India”, said a new flower grower. Md Abdul Hamid, owner of Desh Nursery at Doyel Chattar adjacent to the High Court, said he started doing nursery business with an investment of Tk 5,000 six years back. Now he earns enough from his nursery business to maintain his fivemember family.. November-February is peak time for selling flower plants while they sell other ornamental plants like bonsai, stardust, several kinds of ferns, orchids, cactus, cycas, fruit and vegetables plants round the year, he said. MA Siddiqi Bulbul, secretary of NNSB, said flower and ornamental plant growers and traders pay high tax, which should be removed. The government has banned poly bags for nursery owners, but doesn’t give any suitable alternative, he added. BNMS President Md Abul Kalam Azad said the sector should get facilities like agro-based industry and the government should provide loans at single digit interest rate for expansion of the sector. Nursery and flower business has rapidly expanded in the capital city of Dhaka as elsewhere in Bangladesh in the last few years, with demand mostly coming from the middle-class people, businesses and urban development. The number of plant farms supplying both horticultural and floricultural plants was minimal in the 1990s, which has increased to 10,200 today, while annual

Raisul Islam

sales jumped from Tk 250 million to Tk 20 billion today, industry data shows. Growth powered by urban consumers According to the Bangladesh Plant Nursery Man Society (BPNMS), a platform of the country’s nurseries, nearly 0.2 million people are directly involved in nurseries and 0.15 million farmers are now engaged in commercial horticulture and floriculture business. The 10,200 nurseries and flower-foliage trade or exports have directly or indirectly employed nearly 0.6 million people in the country, BPNMS data shows. Md. Rafiqul Hasan, deputy director at Horticulture Wing under the Department of Agriculture Extension (DAE), said commercial floriculture had expanded to 8,500 hectares in 2014, which was less than 200 hectares in the 90s. Flower and foliage farming has expanded into Jessore, Jhenidah, Magura, Rangpur, Bogra, Dhaka, Gazipur and Manikganj districts, he said.

Momento by Bapa President

National Nursery Guideline The government had no specific policy on floriculture earlier, but the National Nursery Guideline 2008, initiated by the ministry of agriculture, gave some recognition to flower and ornamental plants, Hasan said. The guideline specified flowers, ornamental plants as ‘horticulture crops.’ A meteoric rise in demand in Dhaka, Chittagong, Sylhet, Narayanganj and Gazipur cities as well as Savar encouraged people to invest in nursery and flower business in the 90s, said Dr Shaikh Abdur Sabur, an agribusiness and marketing professor at Bangladesh Agricultural University.

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Floriculture Today 11

Cover Story

According to an official working at the Bangladesh Forest Industries Development Corporation (BFIDC), implementation of afforestation projects by the government and NGOs from early 1990s helped the nursery business to expand. He said annual demand for saplings (including horticultural and floricultural) has risen to more than 45 million pieces now thanks to such projects. Md Shaiful Islam, president of National Nursery Society of Bangladesh (NNSB), a platform of the country’s nursery related associations, said earlier flower corners were only in city’s Shahbagh, Dhanmondi, Farmgate, Nawabbari Road, Banani Kamal Ataturk Avenue and Gulshan areas.

Floriculture Today June 2017

“Now you can get flowers almost at every point in the city. There are more than 450 flower shops in the capital,” he said, adding that most of the people decorate their rooms with flowers or keep flower pots in their balconies and rooftops, . Nurseries turnover MA Siddiqi Bulbul, director of Kingshukh Green House, one of the leading nurseries in the country, said, “Our research shows the turnover of the nurseries and flower traders in Dhaka city is above Tk 1.82 billion a year.” A good number of nurseries have mushroomed in Dhaka’s Agargaon, High Court, Dhanmondi, Kalabagan,

Mohammadpur and Beribadh area adjacent to Hazaribagh, Rayer Bazar, Kamrangir Char, Nowabganj bazar. Apart from decorating rooms or presenting gifts to near and dear ones, flowers and decorative plants are used on many occasions such as marriage, birthday, corporate programmes, trade fairs or government programmes. Fruits and vegetable farming on rooftops is also gaining ground in cities like Dhaka and Chittagong for scarcity of land, Manik said, adding that apart from flower shops, there are 500 small and medium-size nurseries in Dhaka city now. n

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Floriculture Today 13

Cover Story

‘Bangladesh Flower Fest 2017’ strengthens farmer-consumer ties

A young woman buys flowers during “Bangladesh Flower Fest 2017” in Dhaka.

three-day flower festival — ‘Bangladesh Flower Fest-2017’ — concluded at the Bangla Academy premises in Dhaka. The second edition of the festival attracted a total of over 50,000 visitors. A total of 14 pavilions and 33 stalls were setup r for displaying flowers of different species and varieties. The festival also featured fashion show, Sisimpur puppet show, cultural program, food zone, kid’s corner, and flower tunnel. USAID’s Agricultural Value Chains (AVC) Project was a major sponsor of the festival, while the Joint organizers were Innovation and Incubation Centre for Enterprises (IICE) and Bangladesh Flower Society (BFS). Lending support to the organizers were Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University (SEU), Bangladesh Photographic Society (BPS) and Deshifool. com. USAID’s Agricultural Value Chains (AVC) project has been working to support the cut flower industry in terms of its growth and market development. The

Floriculture Today June 2017

Girls wearing tiara of flowers pose for photographs during “Bangladesh Flower Fest 2017” in Dhaka.

project supports farmers and traders with capacity building in farming practices, use of new technologies, in packaging and transporting and linked them to critical market opportunities. The objectives of the event were to promote and recognize the efforts of flower farmers of Jessore in the growth of flower sector of Bangladesh as well as establish a women centric brand in this sector. This was a great opportunity for the women flower farmers, traders and entrepreneurs from Jessore as they got a critical market access, learned how to make flower bouquets and other innovative floral products. This festival also gave them the opportunity to have direct interaction with the key customer base of this specialty product. This in turn will help in building their business capacity and inspire more and more women to be involved in the flower sector. This flower festival has created a platform for BFS to play a critical role in the long term growth of flower industry in Bangladesh.

Barisal Flower Fair 2017 Earlier, in February, USAID’ Agricultural Value Chains (AVC) project had extended its support to Barisal Flower Merchants Association in holding the first ever Flower Fair in Barisal. Over 15,000 visitors thronged to celebrate the Flower Fair to welcome the Spring Season and Valentine’s Day. The two day Flower Fair, held on February 13 and 14 at Bell’s Park, brought new hope to the flower merchants as the local administration assured them that an exclusive flower market place for the flower traders would be set up at the Barisal stadium premises. The assurance was given by Deputy Commissioner of Barisal, Dr. Gazi Md. Saifuzzaman, who was chief guest at the closing ceremony.. The objective of the flower fair was to expand the flower market and consumer base through popularizing locally grown flowers. The Deputy Commissioner said Barisal has all potential to become a flower growing district like Jessore. He offered to provide to anyone who was interested over 100 acres of land in Char (sand bar) areas for flower cultivation in Barisal.

Barisal Flower Fair attracted huge number of visitors.

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Floriculture Today 15

Landscaping

BIO AESTHETIC PLANNING, GARDENING AND ENVIRONMENTAL LANDSCAPING OF ECO-TOURISM — Sadhana Swastika and Dr.V. M Prasad

“Landscape”, in a broad sense, is everything which surrounds us and generates, through vision, mental perception of the environment. Man has always lived, grown and acted within landscapes. A landscape which is natural, man-made or a mixture, according to its scale, the degree of its details and the way which it affects us, can be described as “micro”, “macro” or a “mega” landscape. The various degrees of naturalness, artificiality and the scale variations generate an inexhaustible number of landscape combinations which become an everyday visual experience. However, within this landscape variability, it is possible to isolate certain elements, characteristics and functions in order to analyze, study and plan. “Landscape value” is an accumulation of characteristics which, through their interaction and function, produce results which appear as harmony or unity. The harmony and unity of a landscape, perceived through several visual mental and emotional processes, creates aesthetics which become part of bios - bios for human creations, for natural formations and the whole world.

BIO-AESTHETIC PLANNING The term “bio aesthetic planning, given by Prof. Lancelot Hogben, refers to the conscious planning of the flora and the fauna with the objective of beautifying our surroundings or country. In India, the theme of bio aesthetic planning was propagated by Dr.M.S. Randhawa who gave a practical shape to it in planning Chandigarh along with the famous architect Le Corbusier, and his associates, Pierre Jeanneret, E.Maxwell Fry and Jane B. Drew. The term bio aesthetic planning embraces both the science of animal and plants and is recognized as the planned ecology of living organisms from the artistic and aesthetic point of view. The aim behind this concept is to plant ornamental flowering trees along with roads, in parks, house compounds, public places and also to develop national parks where non-carnivorous animals and beautiful birds will find sanctuary along with the beautiful flora. This includes all aspects of landscape gardening in the wider sense. Bio aesthetic planning can play important role in environmental role in environmental amelioration of urban and industrial areas along with beautification. The bio aesthetic planner is the key player whose canvas is the entire country and whose pigments are the beautiful landscape plants.

Floriculture Today June 2017

BENEFITS OF BIO AESTHETIC PLANNING Bio aesthetic planning not only beautifies the environment but also makes it more livable and ecologically stable .It improves micro climate, mitigates pollution helps in noise abatement, creates habitat for many animal species, adds variety of form, colour and texture to the environment and brings about positive changes in human behaviour. A. Environmental benefits v Temperature and energy use v Air quality v Precipitation and humidity v Noise abatement v Carbon sequestration: v Wind protection and air movement v Glare and reflection control B. Ecological benefits v Direct consumptive value in food, agriculture, medicine, and industry. C. Economic and social benefits

D. Aesthetic benefit AREAS FOR BIO AESTHETIC PLANNING v Compounds of courts, hospitals, universities, colleges, Schools. v Government office buildings. v Public parks and squares. v Public roads. v Platforms of railway stations. v Bus stands. v Air ports. v Religious places such as temples,mos ques,churches,gurdwaras v Village Panchayat ghars,community lands URBAN HORTICULTURE Urban horticulture is the science enabling people/plant interactions that improve and enhance daily life by providing green spaces, such as parks, trees, green walls and roofs that reduce storm water runoff and the urban heat island effect. Health benefits arise from active recreation spaces such as sports

Landscaping

fields, pleasant tranquil spaces as well as small scale vegetable and fruit production. This is a rapidly developing area of horticulture as people are now aware of the value of growing horticultural crops in cities, developing attractive green spaces for improving the livability of cities and their tourism potential. HISTORY Horticulture and the integration of nature into our civilization has been a major part in the establishment of our cities. When nomadic civilizations began settling down, their major trading centers were the market gardens and farms. Urban horticulture rapidly progressed with the birth of cities and the increase in experimentation and exchange of ideas. These insights led to the field being dispersed to farmers in the hinterlands. For centuries, the built environment such as homes, public buildings, etc. were integrated with cultivation in the form of gardens, farms, and grazing lands, Kitchen gardens, farms, common grazing land, etc. Therefore, horticulture was a regular part of everyday life in the city. With the Industrial Revolution and the related increasing populations rapidly changed the landscape and replaced green

spaces with brick and asphalt. After the nineteenth century, Horticulture was then selectively restored in some urban spaces as a response to the unhealthy conditions of factory neighborhoods and cities began seeing the development of parks. BENEFITS v Horticulture by itself is a practical and applied science, which means it can have significance in our everyday

Bio aesthetic planning can play important role in environmental role in environmental amelioration of urban and industrial areas along with beautification. The bio aesthetic planner is the key player whose canvas is the entire country and whose pigments are the beautiful landscape plants

lives. As community gardens cannot actually compete with market-based land uses, it is essential to find other ways to understand their various benefits such as their contribution to social, human, and financial wellbeing. The trees, meadows, ponds and wildlife tranquilize the stresses of city life. Nature has a very positive impact over human health and even more so in an emotional and psychological sense. Trees, grass, and flower gardens, due to their presence as well as visibility, increase peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life satisfaction by reducing fatigue and irritation and restoring a sense of calm. One of the obvious health benefits of gardening is the increased intake of fruits and vegetables. But the act of gardening itself, is also a major health benefit. Edible plantings, as well by getting people outside and promoting more activity in their environments. Gardening programs in inner-city schools have become increasingly popular as a way to teach children not only about healthy eating habits, but also to encourage students to

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Floriculture Today 17

Landscaping

become active learners. Gardens and other green spaces also increase social activity and help in creating a sense of place, apart from their various other purposes such as enhancing the community by mediating environmental factors. Economic benefits There are many different economic benefits from gardening from saving money, Purchasing food and even on the utility bills

SEVERAL UNIQUE GARDENING CONCEPTS v Vertical gardening v Container gardening v Roof top gardening v Window gardening v Hydroponic gardening v Aeroponics TYPES OF URBAN HORTICULTURE v Urban Farms v Vertical Farms v Home Farms ECOTOURISM Eco-tourism means making as little environmental impact as possible and helping to sustain the indigenous populace, thereby encouraging the preservation of wildlife and habitats when visiting a place THREATS v Environmental damage v Urbanization v Human waste

authorities managing natural areas with conservation purposes

v v v v

Garbage Crowding Noise pollution Wildlife disturbance

BENEFITS v Tourism can help alleviate poverty v Possible longer term benefits than hunting or forestry v Increased demand for learning / experiential holidays v Conservation v Education PRINCIPLES v Ecotourism is about uniting conservation, communities, and sustainable travel. v Minimize impact. v Build environmental and cultural awareness and respect. v Provide positive experiences for both visitors and hosts. v Provide direct financial benefits for conservation. v Provide financial benefits and empowerment for local people. v Support international human rights and labour agreements COMPONENTS OF ECOTOURISM v Natural areas v Contains educational and interpretive features v Generally for small groups v Minimizes negative impacts v Supports the protection of natural areas by generating economic benefits for host communities, organizations and

Floriculture Today June 2017

DO’S v Carry back all non-degradable litter such as empty bottles, tins, plastic bags etc. v Observe the sanctity of holy sites, temples and local cultures. v Cut noise pollution. v In case temporary toilets are set-up near campsites, after defecation, cover it with mud or sand. v Respect people’s privacy while taking photographs. DON’TS v Should not take away flora and fauna in the forms of cuttings, seeds or roots. It is illegal v Should not use pollutants such as detergent, in streams or springs while washing and bathing. v Should not use wood as fuel to cook food at the campsite. v Should not leave cigarettes butts or make open fires in the forests. v Should not consume aerated drinks, alcohol, drugs or any other intoxicant and throw bottles in the wild. v Should not tempt the locals, especially children by offering them foodstuff or sweets. Respect local traditions. CONCLUSION v Landscaping is good for environment. v Proper landscape care and healthy landscape also help the environment. v A fertile green space can reduce pollutants and dust from the air, minimize heat, build up and convert carbon dioxide to oxygen and minimize water pollution. n Author: Sadhana Swastika* Research Scholar, M.Sc. (Ag) Horticulture (Floriculture and landscaping) Department of Horticulture Co-author: Dr.V. M Prasad Head, Department of Horticulture Allahabad School of Agriculture Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology & Sciences, Allahabad (U.P). E-mail: lizi6687@gmail.com

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Floriculture Today June 2017

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Floral Art

The Charm of Floral Rangoli for all occasions â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Alka Singh, Neelima Palagani, Bahubali Mangave and Sumathi Tatte

angoli or Rangavali, refers to Ranga = colour and avail = line in Sanskrit. Rangoli is prepared generally by using dry colours, butwith the changing trend of people towards nature and liveliness, theuse of flowers, leaves and plant parts is being encouraged. Colours have strong influence on human mind and health, wherein warm colors like red and orange are known to evoke emotions ranging from feelings of warmth and comfort to feelings of strength and hostility while colors on the blue side of the spectrum are known as cool colors often described as calm. This colourful influence is beautifully highlighted in creative forms of rangoli. Floral rangoli i.e. rangoli composed of flowers induce the healing effects of flowers along with the psychological influence of different colours, forms and scent. Rangoli when done with flowers not only enhances its aesthetic beauty, adds life and grace to the display, spreading freshness and soothing effect to the surroundings. On other hand besides these benefits it is thought that a rangoli as a part of celebration brings luck, reflects the traditions of that unique area. Further, the geometric designs of rangoli are being replaced by theme or occasion specific designs. This folk art of India originated from Kerala and popularized throughout India. It is a

Floriculture Today June 2017

Nutritional Floral Rangoli with processed fruits and vegetable products

tradition followed throughout India and its styles and techniques vary in different cultures. The custom of rangoli has a religious overtone and is done in some social functions such as wedding or in front of home as welcome sign. Rangoli drawing with the help of dry colour or a coloured paste on the floor, is a common practice especially during festive seasons in India. Various materials used to create different types of rangolis are grains of rice and various pulses and cereals, seeds, leaves etc. besides the traditional colours, flour and rice paste. Thus, Rangoli when done with flowers not

only adds life and grace to the display but also provides elegance, freshness and beauty to the surroundings. With the various forms, hues and fragrance of flowers, the entire surrounding attains a soothing effect. Benefits of Fresh Floral Rangoli Flowers are considered symbols of beauty, vitality, blooming, romance, serenity, tenderness etc all that represent positive facade of life. Flowers associated with progress and prosperity from ancient time, denote freshness, acceptance, a positive outlook and a newly blessed beginning of

any important social function. Pleasant fragrances of flowers have been found to have positive effects on moods in all age group. Fragrance along with colour, form, texture, softness, freshness and beautiful charm of flowers directly influence human psyche and induce the thrill of joy and pleasure. Flowers are the true expression of the inner most core of human feelings and love. Thus, Floral rangoli i.e. rangoli composed of flowers induce the healing effects of flowers along with the psychological influence of different colours, forms and scent. Rangoli when done with flowers not only enhances its aesthetic beauty, adds life and grace to the display, spreading freshness and soothing effect to the surroundings. On other hand besides these benefits it is thought that a rangoli as a part of celebration brings luck, reflects the traditions of that unique area. Fresh Floral rangoli indirectly induces happiness and positive outlook, loving environment and warm welcome through the significant influence that flowers have on human psyche and emotions. Material for Floral Rangoli Flowers v Red: Rose, Hibiscus, Bougainvillea, Combretum, Ixora, Clerodendron, Euphorbia Gerbera, Ixora etc.

Floral Art

Simple floral rangoli

Scenic floral rangoli

Traditional floral rangoli

Orange: Rose, Marigold, Gerbera,Butea, Allamanda,Lonicera, Bougainvillea,

Yellow: Chrysanthemum, Marigold, Rose, Gaillardia,Peltophorum, Cassia, Tabebuia, Allamanda, Thunbergia, Sunflower, Calendula, Sonmohar, Gerbera, Hibiscus.

Purple: Chrysanthemum, China Aster,Ipomoea, Lagerstroemia, Adenocalymma, Petrea, Wisteria, Tabebuia, Petunia, Bougainvillea, Blue: Aster,Thunbergia, Jacquemontia, Clerodendrum, Ipomoea, Petunia, etc. Pink: Rose, Zinnia,Lotus buds, Plumeria, Gerbera, Cassia, Ixora,

Education and Literacy Theme

Organic culture-Theme

NCC -Theme

Water floral rangoli

White: Chrysanthemum, Plumeria, Jasmine, Rose, Tagar, Cestrum, Nyctanthes, Candytuft, Euphorbia, Ipomoea, Bougainvillea, Gomphrena, etc.

Foliage v Green: Kamini, Gulmohar, Duranta,

Nutritional floral rangoli

cut leaves of Thuja, Casuarina, Acalypha, Asopalav (Polyalthyalongifolia), artemisia etc.

Nerium, Allamanda, Clerodendrum, Bougainvillea, Plumeria rubra,

Rangoli for convocation

v v v

Purple: Alternantherapurpuria Red: cut leaves of Acalypha, Cockâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s comb Yellow: senescence Leaves, golden Duranta

Fruits and seeds Fruits, vegetables, grains, cereals etc can also be used

Digitalization-theme

Recycle-Theme

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Floral Art

Diyas and Candles

Kalash

in the rangoli which can be laid in the agriculture related workshop or conference. By doing such the theme of conference or seminar can be lighted in an easy way.

Statue

v Accessories Pebbles, diya, kalash, fragrant candles, small flower pots, small statues, kundan stickers, water bowls with single flower and some embroidery worked accessories can positively enhance the aesthetic look of the rangoli. Selection and preparation of flowers for Floral Rangoli v First and prime consideration for any floral rangoli is selection of the colour combinations and the type of rangoli or theme or occasion. v Colour combination may include monotonous (shades of same colour) or contrasting (opposite colours) depending upon the choice of the designer. v Select the flowers or foliage as per the required colours which remain fresh for a reasonable period of time along the

Floriculture Today June 2017

maintained texture. Scissor the fresh flowers and foliage just before filling so that the petals or leaves can maintain fresh look for a longer. Sometimes the flowers and foliage can be used as such like in simple floral rangoli (Image.), where we can cut down the stalks and petiole to keep them in place. The selected fresh material should be stored at cool places to avoid wilting, if there is a lag to arrange the cut down fresh material. Water should be sprayed (misting) on fresh floral material during storage. Old, damaged and dry flowers should not be used along the fresh flower or foliage. Cut the material finely and uniformly to get smooth and nice effect in rangoli.

Pebbles

For creating a better effect, a thick layer of flowers and foliage should be arranged.

Procedure for rangoli making For making floral rangoli, a selected design is drawn on the ground or the traditional place where one want to display the rangoli and thereafter flowers, petals, cut foliage etc. are arranged accordingly with proper colour combinations. The charm of the design can be enhanced by keeping lighted diyas or candles around it. Coloured pebbles can also be used. v Make the design on paper for the specific occasion v Outline the requirement of flowers and plant material according the design colours. v Decide the size of rangoli i.e. how much floor area it will cover? This is required to get clear idea regarding the quantity of

Accessories For Floral Rangoli

the fresh material. Draw a drawing sketch on the ground with a chalk/white board marker. Fill the material from inside out to avoid mixing of material. Give the layered effect to show the three dimensional view.

Variations in rangoli design for specific occasion Simple floral rangoli A simple floral rangoli is very easy to design and will get complete with in no time as compared to other rangoli designs. Very easy to make with simple designs and sometimes, it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t require cutting of the plant material, just need to arrange the flowers as such in a required design. This kind of rangoli has fresh look for longer duration than the other types. Scenic floral rangoli Scenic rangoli depicts natural sceneries which are mostly suited for competitions. This kind of rangoli is complex yet has charming and picturesque effect. A perfectly designed and impressive scenic rangoli is as beautiful as the painting on the canvas. Much care is needed while drawing and filling the designs. Traditional floral rangoli Traditional floral rangoli is the part of festival, a festival is incomplete without a floral rangoli especially in South India. Traditional floral can be made in the entrance of the house and in the traditional place viz., in the pooja room or in front of the Idols of the God. A traditional floral rangoli generally includes Padma (lotus), peacock, swasthik, Ohm, idols of God etc.

Floral Art Fragrant floral rangoli Fragrant floral rangoli is similar to any kind of rangoli but where emphasis is made on selection of the materials which are fragrant. Generally flowers like jasmine, plumeria, kamini and leaves like Artemisia etc can be used. Fragrant candles add more perfume to the rangoli. Water floral rangoli Rangoli is made in the glass or metal container filled with water. Water floral rangoli reflects a classic effect. This is the floral rangoli which has become the daily practice in many private and public offices. Care should be taken while arranging the material. Nutritional floral rangoli Nutritional floral rangoli includes using the fruits, vegetables and other agriculture products along

the flowers. Generally this kind of rangoli is prepared to represent focal theme of the professional seminars or conferences. Thematic floral rangoli Thematic floral rangoli emphasize on particular theme for an occasion viz., peace, devotional ceremonies, love, gatherings, convocation, save nature, water, earth, conservation of birds and animals, etc. Digital floral rangoli Digital floral designs also known as the HD quality designs which can be considered as ultra-modern floral rangoli. These are more complex and intense designs which are filled with many colours and their shades. More suitable for the competitions, requires lot care and consumes much time.

Floral Rangoli for different occasions Public or Private Programmes Public and private organizations viz., educational institutes, NGOs and private sectors throughout the year arrange different seminars/ workshops, success meet and gatherings based on themes ranging from science, arts to technology on different topics like agriculture, urban periurban horticulture, library, environment, animal science, human health, energy conservation, green earth, photography, economics/ statistics etc. Each of these topics can be well represented by preparing unique rangoli design symbolizing each event. Seminar themes like digitalization of library can be represented by computer and books. Rangoli depicting animals, birds with clinical

aids for seminar on veterinary sciences. Issues like global warming, environment protection can be represented with factories, roadways, globe, trees etc. Further, seminars in medical field or those associated with fine arts can also be represented accordingly. Inaugural and Success Events Rangoli with flowers is a unique way to welcome people for any function. Flowers signify beauty, joy, serenity and have been closely associated with our social traditions. Flowers denote freshness, acceptance, positive outlook and a newly blessed beginning of any important function. Symbolizing event through fresh floral rangoli is the best way to give idea to the guests about the occasion. Inauguration of building,

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Floral Art workshop or fair, youth festival and competitions viz., dance, singing, drawing etc., can be well represented through floral rangoli. Rising Sun, flying birds, blooming flowers may represent nature camps, new arrivals, etc. Convocation, an important event in studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life can be aesthetically represented through floral rangoli symbolizing lamps, academic

cap, degree and books. Slogans, flags can also be represented with floral rangoli to highlight institute or organization or theme. Even on wedding, the arrival of bride and bridegroom can be welcomed with floral rangoli representing flowers and kalash with wedding knot. Celebrations India is known as the land

of vivid cultures and traditions and with which different festivals are associated. The different cultures and traditions have different styles of making rangoli. In India we celebrate many festivals like Diwali, Pongal, navratri, onam, Christmas, ramazan, etc. Floral rangoli is a part of all these celebrations. In these festivals floral rangoli indicating diyas (lamp), onam

symbols, boat with coconut palms, depicting the idols of durga, kathakali face, ten rings, garba dance, mangal kalash, lotus, kites, Santa, moon with star etc. can be made to add more happiness to the celebrations. Making floral rangoli during celebrations strengthen the intimacy among the people and improves the social togetherness. Besides festivals other celebrations like wedding, birthday parties, retirement functions, annapraasana etc are also some where rangoli can find its place and add aesthetic touch. On holi, the festival of colours, Rangoli with flowers at the home entrance and in the porch can be created. Flowers of Palash (Butea monosperma) can be used on second day for colorful playing by boiling them in water on Dhuleti, the colourful playing festival. Conclusion Apart from the role in celebrations, now a dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s floral rangoli gained the momentum as a profession. Especially in the devotional ceremonies which organize at a large scale giving due value to traditional rangoli. Thus, flowers in the form of rangoli play an important role in adding colours of cheers and spreading fragrance of happiness in otherwise dull live. Fresh floral rangoli on different occasions reflect the traditions and add the charm of colours, fragrance, spreading love, happiness n and prosperity. Authors: Dr. Alka Singh, Associate Professor and Head, Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, ACHF, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, Gujarat, Eimail: dralkasinghdhaka@gmail.com. Dr. Neelima Palagani, Dr. Bahubali Mangave and Dr. Sumathi Tatte completed their PhD degree from the same department and presently working as scientists and Assistant Professor in different institutesin India

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Event Report

Multifunctional city comfort - these are the outdoor trends of 2017/2018 Carrots in the pot or salad in the box: Trend-conscious city dwellers and even the Hollywood actor Liam Hemsworth take joy in growing their own vegetables. What in the past was only common in the country or in allotment gardens that were labelled as being square, is now conquering the metropolises. Urban gardening is the buzzword that describes tomatoes, red peppers and strawberries growing on balconies, roof terraces and in back yards. As such a new garden culture has established itself that is become more and more popular all the time. According to a representative GfK survey carried out on behalf of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Apotheken Umschauâ&#x20AC;? (pharmacy publication), in the meantime 39 percent of the consumers, who own a balcony or garden, use them for growing

Floriculture Today June 2017

fruit, vegetables and herbs - with an upward trend. Hence, the summer livingroom is become real living space. And the consumers want to decorate it in a modern, stylish design. The manufacturers of garden furniture and accessories are currently increasingly discovering the potential of the urban outdoor oases. Thus, under focus: The city outdoor trend with products that are both elegant as well as practical and space-saving. On top of that multifunctional furniture as well as comfort-providing and ergonomic features are also increasingly finding their way outdoors. In terms of colours, everything revolves around green and barbecuing is becoming smart using elaborate equipment - through to the complete outdoor kitchen. Around 2,000 exhibitors will demonstrate all of the trends and innovations for the outdoor season 2017/18 at the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest garden fair, spoga+gafa, which is being staged in Cologne from 3 to 5 September 2017. Top trend 2017/18: City outdoors is becoming sophisticated. More and more people are moving to the cities. Instead of a small house in the suburbs, in addition to young people more and more high-income earners are opting for the pulsating city lifestyle.

And they not only want to furnish their apartment upclass and stylishly, but also their balcony. That is why there is a large selection of products for the summer season 2017/18 that specifically address this target group. Here the focus is on design-oriented outdoor furniture that can be variably implemented, constantly rearranged in new constellations and stowed away in a space-saving manner. They have a light, dainty appearance and are made of stylish materials that are hardly distinguishable from the indoor versions. The sophisticated balcony world is rounded off by compact sunshades, carpets and lamps as well as plant systems and gardening equipment for urban gardening that allow small areas to be optimally utilised. Multifunction is the trump card The days when the outdoor sofa was used exclusively for sitting on are long gone. Not least due to the limited amount of space on balconies and terraces, multifunctional furniture is now increasingly conquering the summer living-room. The manufacturers are convincing with plenty of creativity and are offering true quick-change artists. In this way, at the flick of a wrist a lounger becomes a bench or a daybed becomes a sofa with a table. Stools can also be used as a side table, sunshades offer light and heating functions and plant pots provide additional storage space. The barbecue manufacturers are at the very forefront. In the meantime their models can smoke, roast and bake as well as offering special features such as LED lamps and power bank compatibility.

Event Report Things are getting comfortable High spending power, qualityconscious and growing - this describes the target group of the best agers. According to the experts every second Euro spent in Germany is spent by someone over 50. An attractive clientele that is prepared to dip a little deeper into its pocket for its green oasis - if the products offer added value. Hence, at the moment high-quality furniture that excels with comfort-providing aspects is conquering the outdoor stage. The selection ranges from ergonomically shaped, high chair seats for back-friendly sitting and lying, to sunshades that are operated per foot switch, through to plant pots that allow easy planting. Important here: The appearance and design language of the products are chic and modern. So they don’t just address the best agers, but indeed everyone, who likes it comfortable. Colour trend: Everything is green That gets everyone in the summer mood: Green is the colour of the year. Whether in the fashion, cosmetics or furnishing sectors - everything is green and blooming. And this trend is now also heading outdoors. A harmonious, coherent overall picture is emerging in interplay with nature. The array ranges from powerful and fresh to muted and dark shades. And since green can be nicely combined with many other colours, the look can be skilfully pepped up: It shines out when combined with yellow, becomes softer with pink and blue lends it all a maritime appearance. Of course,

the garden wouldn’t be the same without the classic shades white, grey, brown and black.

hickory or cedar), which produces a special smoking aroma. Also available: Versions made of salt.

Grilling 2017: To the stoves Trends like winter barbecues prove it: People love sizzling outdoors. Since more elaborate and sophisticated options are welcomed, complete outdoor kitchens are increasingly in demand. They are available as either mobile or fixed models. Depending on the user requirements, they almost offer the same equipment as their “indoor sister”: from cooking zones, to worktops and sinks through to storage room. Further optional delicacies: Brackets for spits enabling larger roasts to be conveniently cooked. In this way, a 3course meal can easily be conjured up in the outdoor kitchen. Parallel to this the grills are becoming more and more refined and multifunctional. Food can be smoked, roasted, cooked and baked on the models. It is noticeable that the manufacturers are in the meantime creating complete BBQ worlds. The offer ranges from sandwich inserts to carving knives, through to the cigarette lighter. And in order to continually further increase the sizzling potential, the selection of accessories is permanently being extending to include for example marshmallow grill skewers. New smart features and app connections are constantly being introduced too. An old tradition is being rediscovered: Plank grilling. Here, fish, meat and vegetables are cooked on planks made of special woods (i.e. alder,

Gardening equipment: high-performance and intelligent Garden owners love designing their green oasis themselves - it just shouldn’t be too laborious. Thus, products that facilitate their work are becoming increasingly popular. These include robot lawn mowers and battery-powered devices as well as raised flowerbeds and window boxes that score plus points with their convenience features (i.e. water reservoir). Protection systems for the garden are also gaining in popularity. At the same time the manufacturers in this segment are also discovering the high-spending 50+ generation and are offering them ergonomic tools or comfort-providing aids. The digitalisation is a further mega trend. The selection of intelligent systems for the summer living-room is increasing rapidly. Whether autonomous lawn mowers, smart gardening or grilling: there are hardly any limits to the possibilities for technology-loving gardeners. The spoga+gafa 2017 is open to trade visitors on 3 and 4 & 5 September 2017. Further information is available at: www.spogagafa.com.

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Floriculture Today June 2017

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Nursery Business

Pulla Anjaneyulu

Floriculture Today June 2017

Pulla Veera Venkata Rao

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Floriculture Today June 2017

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Greening

Tree spotting in Tiruppur

How Tiruppur, India’s knitwear hub, is now weaving a green cover for the entire district — Pankaja Srinivasan

e moved this tree 15 km on a truck along the stretch between Avinashi and Avinashipalayam.” V. Mahendran points to a hulking tree trunk. “The operation took us nine hours. Even with its branches and most of its canopy chopped off, it weighed more than 40 tonnes.” We are at the Tiruppur Collectorate, and Mahendran, who works at a leading Tiruppur apparel company, is telling me about the massive tree planting drive across Tiruppur district that he is part of. “Four hundred trees were to be cut for a highways project. And 150 trees of them were transplanted— three of them at the Collectorate.” This particular tree, a rare variety of banyan, is around 150 years old. He points to a sprig of leaves on a bare branch. “The tree lives.” Mahendran comes from a long line of farmers in Dharapuram “and I know about native trees and the soil.” Fourteen years ago, he joined the administrative department of an apparel manufacturing and exporting company. But when his managing director, T.R. Sivaram, spearheaded the Vanathukul Tiruppur (Tiruppur within a forest) in 2015, a

movement to green the city, Mahendran’s job description changed. He became the initiative’s project manager. As we drive along, Mahendran identifies the trees that have been planted as part of the project. He says with considerable pride that 3.5 lakh trees have been planted in the last two years in the district and 90% are flourishing. “Nothing gives me greater satisfaction than knowing that we have put trees on almost every street of Tiruppur,” he says. A.P.J. effect Sivaram, who started an NGO called Vetry to tackle environmental problems of the region, found the right people to fulfil a promise he made to himself; one that gathered strength when his hero A.P.J. Abdul Kalam passed away. “Dr. Kalam had said every human must plant and

Floriculture Today June 2017

nurture at least five trees in their lifetime. When he died, a few of us thought the best way to honour his memory was to plant and look after saplings. In 2015, 8,000 people from all walks of life assembled and pledged to plant one lakh trees in four months.” That was the first phase of Vanathukul Tiruppur. In just under 100 days, 1.35 lakh saplings were planted. That was the first milestone and the response was overwhelming. Sivaram approached the frontrunners of business in the wealthy knitwear town of Tiruppur. Almost all the garment industrialists threw their weight behind his project. When I tell Sivaram that I always thought of Tiruppur as a plastic-infected, hot and dusty mess, he is not very pleased. “We are clothing the world and the city is one of the busiest industrial hubs in the country raking in over Rs. 25,000 crore per annum in export revenue and doing equally well in the domestic market. Over 11 lakh workers are employed in the industries and, with that volume, the city is not going to smell sweet.” D.M. Kumar, CEO of another apparel company and project director of Vanathukul Tiruppur, makes a candid

Greening admission. “We have caused grievous harm to the environment and we must make amends.” He says that while the industry’s growth has been exponential, no one paid any attention to the environmental fallout. Water bodies paid the price with effluents being discharged into them and trees suffered too. But not any more. The new ‘VIPs’ The trees in Tiruppur are now VIPs, says Sivaram. “We brainstormed and came up with a sustainable plan. Too many tree planting drives are coming to nought. In order to save time, energy and resources, we decided to plant in enclosed private lands.” He explains how people offered vacant lands to plant saplings. Nearly 4,000 acres have been planted. I see 6,000 trees growing on 60 acres belonging to a major industrialist. Farmers with uncultivable land were persuaded to plant teak, malai vembu and sandalwood. Before the saplings find a home, Mahendran and his team find out what tree will grow best in that particular soil. Treated sewage water is used to

water the saplings. Industrialists have provided tractors fitted with GPS to the Vanathukul Tiruppur team. These follow a meticulously drawn up schedule to crisscross the district carrying 6,000 litres of water a trip. The tractors make five trips a day. In some farms, drip irrigation is used. But it isn’t all smooth sailing. There have been some setbacks, reveals Kumar. “When we planted saplings in public spaces, miscreants set fire to them, poured acid on them or hammered nails into them. But plantations on private lands get proper care and the trees get a fair chance of survival.” Kumar says they would gladly help housing complexes to start greening drives too. “You don’t need that much space. We have also adopted the Miyawaki forestry method (a form of ecological engineering) and now several places have densely planted trees.” In the lush outdoors of yet another apparel exporting company, 4,000 assorted saplings grow in a Miyawaki forest. They include banyan, badam, teak, pomegranate, rosewood, cherry, neem, silver oak, mandarai, guava and mango.

Children from nearby schools planted them and they return every now and then to check on their progress. Mahendran says the planting drive has helped bring back rare indigenous species that would have otherwise disappeared. “The Vanathukul movement has spread its roots. Dindigul, Erode, Namakkal have all begun similar projects,” says Kumar. Both Sivaram and Kumar reiterate that the greening effort has been successful because it is a people’s movement, wholeheartedly supported by the government. District Forest Officer A. Periasamy seconds that. “In the first two years of the scheme, the forest department supplied nearly two lakh saplings. Meanwhile, the organisers themselves established nurseries and identified sources for saplings. But the forest department will continue to offer technical expertise in terms of saplings and soil conditions.” Sivaram hopes to see positive results in about three years. “More rainfall, more birds, less pollution and less heat.” And their next project on restoring water n bodies is already underway. Source: The Hindu Magazine

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Flower Info

Banksia A POTENTIAL FLOWER CROP for FLORICULTURAL INDUSTRY — S.Vijayakumar & P.Pandiyaraj

Banksias grow as trees or woody shrubs. Trees of the largest species, B. integrifolia (Coast Banksia) and B. seminuda (River Banksia), often grow over 15 metres tall, some even grow to standing 30 metres tall. Banksia species that grow as shrubs are usually erect, but there are several species that are prostrate, with branches that grow on or below the soil

anksia is a genus of around 170 species in the plant family Proteaceae. These Australian wildflowers and popular garden plants are easily recognised by their characteristic flower spikes and fruiting “cones” and heads. Banksias range in size from prostrate woody shrubs to trees up to 30 metres tall. They are found in a wide variety of landscapes; sclerophyll forest, (occasionally) rainforest, shrubland, and some more arid landscapes, though not in Australia’s deserts. Heavy producers of nectar, banksias are a vital part of the food chain in the Australian bush. They are an important food source for all sorts of nectarivorous animals, including birds, bats, rats, possums, stingless bees and a host of invertebrates. Furthermore, they are of economic importance to Australia’s nursery and cut flower

Floriculture Today June 2017

industries. However these plants are threatened by a number of processes including land clearing, frequent burning and disease, and a number of species are rare and endangered. Description Banksias grow as trees or woody shrubs. Trees of the largest species, B. integrifolia (Coast Banksia) and B. seminuda (River Banksia), often grow over 15 metres tall, some even grow to standing 30 metres tall. Banksia species that grow as shrubs are usually erect, but there are several species that are prostrate, with branches that grow on or below the soil. The leaves of Banksia vary greatly between species. Sizes vary from the narrow, 1–1½ centimetre long leaves of B. ericifolia (Heath-leaved Banksia), to the very large leaves

Flower Info of B. grandis (Bull Banksia), which may be up to 45 centimetres long. The leaves of most species have serrated edges, but a few, such as B. integrifolia, do not. Leaves are usually arranged along the branches in irregular spirals, but in some species they are crowded together in whorls. Many species have differing juvenile and adult leaves (e.g., Banksia integrifolia has large serrated juvenile leaves). The character most commonly associated with Banksia is the flower spike, an elongated inflorescence consisting of a woody axis covered in tightly-packed pairs of flowers attached at right angles. A single flower spike generally contains hundreds or even thousands of flowers; the most recorded is around 6000 on inflorescences. Banksia flowers are usually a shade of yellow, but orange, red, pink and even violet flowers also occur. Uses As cut flower: With the exception of the nursery industry, Banksia have limited commercial use. Some species, principally B. coccinea (Scarlet Banksia), B. baxteri, B. hookeriana (Hookerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Banksia), B. sceptrum,

and Southern Australia, as well as Israel and Hawaii, and the flower heads harvested for the cut flower trade. Their nectar is also sought by beekeepers, not for the quality of the honey, which is often poor, but because the trees provide an abundant and reliable source of nectar at times when other sources provide little.

(Sceptre Banksia), B. speciosa (Showy Banksia) and B. menziesii (Menziesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Banksia) are grown on farms in Western

A single flower spike generally contains hundreds or even thousands of flowers; the most recorded is around 6000 on inflorescences

As shrub: Most of species are shrubs, only few of them can be found as trees and they are very popular because of their size, the tallest species are: B. integrifolia having its subspecies B. integrifolia subsp. monticola notable for reaching the biggest banksias and it is the most frost tolerant in this genus, B. seminuda, B. littoralis, B. serrata; species that can grow as small trees or big shrubs: B. grandis, B. prionotes, B. marginata, B. coccinea, B. speciosa and B. menziesii. Due to their size these species are popularly planted in parks, gardens and streets, the remaining species in this n genus are only shrubs. Authors: S. Vijayakumar & P. Pandiyaraj Research Scholars ICAR- Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bengaluru

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Legislation

India to create law against supply of counterfeit seeds

ccording to Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao the government will bring in an ordinance to deal sternly with the supply of spurious seeds and fertilizers that are causing havoc with the fortunes of the farmers in the State. Reviewing the government plans to reach out to the farmers with adequate assistance by next kharif, he said the pernicious practices being adopted for the adulteration of foods would also be taken up seriously and those responsible for this would not be allowed to go scot-free. The provisions of the Preventive Detention Act would be invoked to act against those elements indulging in the adulteration of foods. He emphasized the need for tasking the farmers with the responsibility of food processing which would help give their produce the much needed value addition. They should be extended due support by the government to grow quality vegetables and fruits.

Floriculture Today June 2017

He said the State government would stand by the farmers so as to enable them to meet the cost of inputs and to get a Minimum Support Price for their produce. The Chief Minister spoke to the Union of Fertilisers and Chemicals Minister, Anantha Kumar, over the phone and requested him to ensure an adequate supply of fertilisers for the coming Kharif season.Agriculture Minister Pocharam Srinivas Reddy, Chief Secretary SP Singh, Principal Secretaries S Narsing Rao, Parthasarathy, MP K Keshav Rao, MLA Errabelli Dayakar Rao, Agriculture University VC Praveen Rao, Horticulture Corporation Commissioner Venkatram Reddy and others participated. He said “Agriculture Extension Officers will have to tour villages from May 10 to June 10. They have to collect details of the lands. What kind of holding does each farmer has and what is cultivated in the land? Do they have water facility? What do they cultivate during the rainy season and during summer? Are they

Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao, Agriculture minister Pocharam Srinivas Reddy and Chief Secretary SP Singh at the meeting on Monday

doing micro irrigation? Are they using machines and did they gone for the soil testing? If yes, what kind of soil they have in their lands? The officers should collect such data and information. Based on this data input expenditure is given to the farmers and all programmes intended for them will be implemented based on this information and hence the information should be correct and accurate. The government will take stringent action if the information gathered is not factual. If the government has facts before it all the programmes can be implemented smoothly and effectively. Agriculture officers will visit each farmer and the farmers should give all the required information and cooperate with him,” the CM said. The CM has instructed the officials concerned to collect the required fertiliser for the monsoon during the summer itself and stock it. The officials informed him that that 16 Lakh tonnes of fertiliser was required during the rainy season, and as on date, 8 Lakh tonnes are already available. Some portion of fertiliser is available locally. If the government could stock in advance two lakh tonnes of urea, 50,000 tonnes of DAP, 2 lakh tons of NPK , there will not be any problem during the rainy season. Principal Secretary (Agriculture) Parthasarathy will go to Delhi

on Tuesday and submit the proposals to the Centre. “In Telangana we have become self sufficient as far as Paddy is concerned. We are still importing pulses, fruits and vegetables. Hence we should know what is the need for our State, how much quantity of fruits and vegetables we require? Based on the demand we have to produce. Through this, the people’s needs are fulfilled,” the CM said. “Farmers Associations should be formed in the villages. Based on this, mandal, District and State level Federations should be formed. In future Farmers Associations will play a key role. Farmers should be given proper training and Crop Colonies should be constituted. Encourage farmers in village to go in for different crops but not one crop. Take measures to ensure that the farmers who grow red Chilli will also make red Chilli powder by processing and similarly for the turmeric farmers, they should also make Turmeric powder,” the CM advised. The Chief Minister also said that the agriculture department should also change its structure based on the growing needs of the farmers. They should employ the required staff. Job Cards should also be made to fix what responsibilities an employee is expected to discharge, the CM instructed. n

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FG lower ardening Info

Poinsettiaâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Some Interesting Facts What did the poinsettia come from? In order to fully understand or appreciate this plant, it is helpful to take a look at where did the poinsettia come from. The poinsettia is native to Central America, near southern Mexico. It was introduced to the United States in 1828 and got its name from Joel Roberts Poinsett. Poinsett was the first U.S. Ambassador to Mexico with a passion for botany. Upon discovering this shrub, he became so enchanted with its bright red blooms that he sent some to his South Carolina home to be propagated. What makes poinsettia turn red? Many people wonder what makes poinsettias turn red. It is actually the plantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leaves that provide its colour through a process called photoperiodism. This process, in response to certain amounts of light or lack thereof, turns the leaves from green to red (or pink, white,

Floriculture Today June 2017

and other shade variations). What most people mistake as flowers in fact specialized leaves, or bracts. The small yellow flowers are found in the center of the leaf branches. How to make poinsettia turn red In order to get a poinsettia plant to turn red, you need to eliminate its light. Flower formation is actually triggered by periods of darkness. During the day, poinsettia plants require as much bright light as possible in order to absorb enough energy for colour production. At night, however, poinsettia plants must not receive any light for at least 12 hours. Therefore, it may be necessary to place plants in a dark closet or cover with cardboard boxes. Make a poinsettia Re-bloom To coax a poinsettia plant to bloom again, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s necessary to repeat the poinsettia life cycle. After the holidays

and once blooming has ceased, limit the amount of watering so the plant can go dormant until spring. Then, usually around March or April, regular watering can be resumed and fertilizing can begin. Prune back the plant to about 6 inches from the top of the container and report. Poinsettia plants can be kept outdoors in a protected sunny area during summer, if desired. Pinch out the tips to promote branching of new growth until about the middle of August. Once fall returns (and shorter days), reduce the amount of fertilizer, and bring outdoor plants inside. Once again, limit watering in September/October and give the poinsettia bright day light temperatures between 6-120C. with total darkness at night with cooler temperatures of around 150C. Once flower bracts have developed definite colour, you can reduce the amount of darkness and increases its water.

Flower Info How do you take care of poinsettias How do you take care of poinsettias (Euphorbia pulcherrima)? Carefully these finicky short-day plants require specific growing needs in order to retain their Christmas blooms. However, with proper care, your holiday poinsettia should continue to put out blooms, or in the least remain attractive for weeks after. Holiday poinsettia plant care Poinsettia care begins with proper light, water, and temperature conditions. During the holidays, while in full bloom, they typically enjoy semi-cool, humid locations in bright, indirect light with plenty of moisture. Poinsettia plants should be watered thoroughly; taking care not to drown them by ensuring adequate drainage is available. Likewise, avoid letting them sit in water-filled saucers, which can lead to root rot. Adding plants nearby can help increase humidity levels in dry rooms, as will humidifiers. Once flower bracts have fallen, you have the option of discarding the plant or keeping it an additional year. For those choosing to continue with poinsettia care,

decrease regular watering to allow the plant to dry out some. However, don’t let it dry out completely. Also, relocate the poinsettia plant to a cool, dark area until spring or around April. Fertilizing Poinsettia Plants Fertilizing poinsettia plants is never recommended while they’re still in bloom. Fertilize poinsettias only if keeping them after the holiday season. Apply fertilizer every two weeks or once monthly using a complete houseplant fertilizer. Provided the poinsettia plant is given the proper environmental conditions, it should begin to re-grow within weeks. Poinsettia Care after the Holidays In spring, return the plant to a sunny area and water well. Cut back all canes (branches) to about 6 inches from the pot’s rim. It may also be a good idea to report the poinsettia using the same type of soil. While poinsettia can be kept indoors throughout summer, many people choose to move them outdoors in a sunny, but protected, area of the flower garden by sinking the pot into the ground. Either

way is fine. After new growth has reached between 6 to 10 inches, pinch out the tips to encourage branching. This can be done once a month until the middle of August. Once nights become longer in fall, bring the poinsettia indoors. From about September through November light becomes crucial in poinsettia plant care. In order to encourage blooming, poinsettia plants require long period of darkness at night (about 12 hours). Therefore, move the poinsettia to a location where it will not receive any nighttime light or cover it with a box. Allow plenty of light during the day so the plant can absorb enough energy for flowering. Warmer days 18210C and cooler nights 13-160C are also recommended. Provide semi-cool, humid locations in bright, indirect light with plenty of moisture once blooming occurs. Poinsettia Plant Leaves Are Falling Off It’s important to pinpoint the possible cause in the event that your poinsettia plant leaves are falling off, as in some cases, this can be easily fixed. Environmental

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Flower Info

Marble

Red/White Combo

factors such as warm, dry conditions are most often the reason for leaf drop. Stress can also be a factor. Keep the plant in a cool, draft-free area and provide plenty of water. If all else fails, the plant may need to be discarded. Now that you know how you take care of poinsettias you can keep these lovely plants year round. With proper poinsettia plant care, they will give you many years of beauty. Are poinsettia plants poisonous? Poinsettia plants are less toxic than once believed. In most cases, poinsettia exposure causes only discomfort,

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Jingle Bells

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including: v A mild, itchy rash. Skin contact with the sap of a poinsettia plant can cause a rash. If this happens, wash the affected area with soap and water. Apply a cool compress to ease itching. v A mild stomachache, vomiting or diarrhea. This can happen after eating part of a poinsettia plant. Severe signs and symptoms are unlikely. If you find a child eating a poinsettia plant, clear and rinse his or her month. v Eye irritation. If the sap of a poinsettia plant comes in contact with the eyes, they can become red and irritated. If this happens, flush the eyes with water. v A l l e r g i c reaction. Some people are more sensitive to poinsettia plants than are others. Reactions to poinsettia plants are more common among people who have latex allergies, since latex and poinsettia plants share several proteins. In case of a severe reaction, seek prompt medical attention.

Red

White

Fun Facts about Poinsettia v Did you know that the poinsettia’s main attraction is not its flowers, but its leaves? The flowers of the plant are the yellow clistered buds in the center (termed “Cynthia”). The coloured leafy parts are actually bracts or modified leaves, that turn colour in response to the plant forming flowers. When buying a poinsettia, make sure it has the buds, preferably not yet open. v Red is the most popular colour, accounting for roughly threequarters of all sales worldwide, followed by white and pink. The more than 100 varieties of poinsettias come in a range of colours from red, salmon, and apricot to yellow, cream, and white (but not blue- these are a designer colour created with dyes). There are also usual speckled or marbled varieties with several colours blended together. New varieties are introduced yearly. v Did you know that in the wild or planted in tropical climates, the poinsettia can reach heights of 12 feet with leaves measuring six to eight inches across? It is a actually a small tropical tree belonging to the Euphorbia plant family. n

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Blooming problem for jasmine: it smells bad

ver wondered why women who love to deck up their hair with jasmine choose just-opened buds over the fullybloomed flowers? A team of researchers from a lab in Lucknow may have some answers. Scientists from the Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CIMAP) in Lucknow have found that buds of jasmine emanate a sweeter smell. But this fragrance turns more pungent because of chemical changes that a volatile chemical compound — predominantly responsible for the fragrance — undergo. In a work published early this week in the journal Phytochemistry, CIMAP scientists led by Ajit Shasany and Chandan Chanotiya, painstakingly recorded chemical changes that take place as these buds bloom. To their surprise, they found that linalool, an aromatic compound responsible for the sweet smell not just in jasmine but in many other flowers, makes a switch from one form to another during flowering.

Linalool, an industrially important aroma molecule used in flavour and fragrance compositions, is naturally found in two forms — R-linalool and Slinalool. While they have same chemical composition, there is a subtle change in the way different molecules are stacked in them. “Structurally, they are mirror image of the each other,” said Pragadheesh V Shanmugam, who was the first author of the paper. Shanmugam, who completed his doctorate under Chanotiya, hails from a village in Erode district. While R-linalool has the fragrance of lavender, S-linalool

smells like coriander, said Shanmugam. Switch happening “What was interesting to note was that there was a switch happening from Rlinalool to S-linalool as the bud transforms into a fully-bloomed flower. As the flower blooms the levels of R-linalool go down, while that of S-linalool increase,” said Chanotiya. The relatively higher presence of S-linalool in the bloomed flower explains why people do not like it so much, he said. “We have been able to isolate the gene responsible for the production of R-linalool in jasmine plant and are in the process of identifying the one that expresses S-linalool,” said Shasany. The scientists hope that once this gene is isolated, they might be able to silence this gene, helping them to develop better-smelling jasmine varieties. Besides, this can also aid in producing better quality natural fragrant products, said Chanotiya.

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News

Pakistani growers learn about hydroponics

awalpindi-A 15-day training workshop on hydroponics agriculture (soilless farming) started at Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi (PMAS-AAUR) here on Tuesday. The workshop was organised under the project titled ‘Testing Indigenous Hydroponic Greenhouse for Vegetable Growing’ funded by Agriculture Department, Punjab. PMAS-AAUR Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Rai Niaz Ahmad was the chief guest at the concluding ceremony of the workshop, which was also attended by deans, directors, faculty members and farmers. It was the 4th training workshop out of total eight. More than 50 farmers including women from different locations of Pakistan will get training on greenhouse erection, crop sowing, crop management

and harvesting of fruit. While addressing, Prof Dr Rai Niaz Ahmad said that continuous struggle turned the impossible into possible. The hydroponics technology been introduced in Pakistan was very much costly i.e. up to Rs 120 million per acre but the endless efforts reduced it 10 times. He said that hydroponics technology has widened the scope of agriculture and opened the door of inventions and new

technologies. He hoped that this training session would be beneficial for the farmers in the terms of experience and income. Keeping in view the problems of agriculture sector he said, “We must together put all efforts for the ultimate solutions. Agriculture reforms and renovations are the need of time, which would lead agriculture sector towards development and tends to increase gross agriculture produce of the country, he added. He focused on marketing strategies for the value addition of agriculture products. The vice chancellor applauded the participation of women in training session and said that women are the important factor in the agriculture sector, their essential contributions in the agricultural and rural economies play vital role in developing countries.

India: Organic farming takes shape in Bengal

ith an eye to frame an organic farming policy, Bengal agriculture department, food processing industries,

Floriculture Today June 2017

and horticulture department have started organic farming activities across the state. The increasing demand for organic v e g e t a b l e s , especially among urban residents, has convinced the state government to formulate the organic farming policy, senior government executives said. The food processing industries and horticulture department has asked the rural agricultural farms to begin organic farming and assured them of technical assistance as well as help in promotion and marketing. The department will supply greenhouses and pack houses along with organic fertilizers. It will

also provide cars to transport those farm products to the markets. The department is also taking up organic farming at its own farms. The agriculture department, on the other hand, has set a target to prepare 32 organic villages across Bengal — especially in the districts of North and South 24 Parganas, Howrah and Hooghly. It has set up 120 clusters, of 50 acres each, where organic farming is taking place. Around 194 farmhouses under the department are also farming organic vegetables separately.

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News

Light in the greenhouse–quality or quantity?

n recent years, there has been a lot of attention on diffused glass. Diffused glass gives better light distribution through the greenhouse, with deeper penetration into the crop. Also, Cultilene has noticed a growing interest in extra clear glass with a double AR coating that gives a considerable increase in light transmission. Whether a grower favours diffusion or light transmission depends on various factors, including cultivation strategy, location and marketing period, among others. Most growers are familiar with the advantages of diffused glass: more light dispersion and a more uniform horizontal light distribution. This decreases the shadow effect in the greenhouse and gives a more even climate. The light also penetrates deeper into the crop to give more photosynthesis. ‘Ten percent more haze (light dispersion) usually increases yield by one percent’, says Ralf Derksen, Product Manager for Glass at Saint-Gobain Cultilene. ‘At the same time, however, a rule of thumb is that one percent more light will increase yield by one percent. This means that, in the greenhouse, both the quality and quantity of light play a role. Customised solutions For the best possible light conditions, a grower should opt for the highest percentage of diffusion combined with the highest possible light transmission. The problem is, however, that these two factors cancel each other out: the

Floriculture Today June 2017

higher the haze factor (diffusion) of glass, the higher the reflection and the lower the light transmission. Particularly during winter months, when the sun is low in the sky, the light transmission of diffused glass is inferior to that of clear glass. ‘Growers therefore need to choose between diffusion and light transmission’, Ralf Derksen explains. ‘Naturally, it’s also possible to opt for a middle ground: the best of both worlds.’ There is no single answer to the question of which strategy is best. Various factors go into choosing a certain type of glass: a grower’s growing method, greenhouse location, whether or not assimilation lighting is used, desired harvesting period, etc. The right choice will always be based on a customised solution.’ Diffused and clear glass Saint-Gobain Cultilene has noticed that both its diffused Albarino glass with AR (anti-reflection) coating and its extra clear float glass with double AR coating are liked by growers. Under wet conditions, Saint-Gobain Cultilene’s special hydrophilic

AR coating increases light transmission by several percent. ‘We’re also seeing an increasing demand for our extra clear, low percentage iron oxide float glass with double AR coating: a unique product supplied only by Saint-Gobain Cultilene. This glass admits very high rates of PAR and UV light. With UV light, you easily increase your yield by 10 percent as compared to diffused glass with a double AR coating An increasing number of growers are becoming aware of this added value: we have now realised projects for crops such as lettuce, tomatoes and strawberries, to name but a few. Durability Derksen emphasises that it’s equally important for growers to consider the durability of the glass they select. ‘SaintGobain can guarantee this durability because of the unique anti-reflection treatment it provides. During the hardening process, the chemical reaction which happens between the AR coating and the glass fuses both into a single, uniform substance. Dirt collects on the glass slower, so ensuring that light transmission is safeguarded for a good number of years. High light transmission when buying your glass is great, but this quality should be maintained for at least another ten years. In short: choosing Saint-Gobain glass is not only a durable, but also a sustainable choice.’

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