Introduction:
Nandini, also known as Lisianthus or scientifically Eustoma grandiflorum, is making waves in the world of horticulture. Often referred to as the 'American Rose' in the United States, this perennial herbaceous plant from the Gentianaceae family has captivated gardeners and flower enthusiasts alike with its stunning beauty and remarkable longevity. In this blog, we'll explore why Nandini is crowned the new queen of the American rose garden and delve into the research and cultivation practices that have made this possible.
A Blossoming Marvel:
Nandini is renowned for its aesthetic appeal and exceptional qualities as a cut flower. The plant boasts more than 80 single and double-colored flowers, which remain fresh for about 20 days after picking and up to 40 days when blooming on the plant. This remarkable longevity, combined with its vibrant bluish-green leaves, makes Nandini a top choice in the global floral market.
Dr. A. Faiz M. Jamaluddin, Chairman and Associate Professor of the Horticulture Department at Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, has dedicated over a decade to researching the production of Nandini in Bangladesh's climate. Initially sourced from Japan, these plants currently yield 15 to 20 flowers each, with the potential to produce up to 60 flowers per plant under optimal conditions.
Economic and Horticultural Significance:
Dr. Jamaluddin emphasizes the economic importance of Nandini, noting that Bangladesh's climate is highly conducive to its cultivation. Unlike many flowers that bloom only in winter, Nandini can be produced year-round, including in the summer. This perennial blooming cycle presents a significant opportunity for meeting the growing demand for flowers in Bangladesh and beyond.
In addition to its beauty, Nandini's practical benefits are noteworthy. Flower enthusiasts can enjoy its blooms for 10 to 15 days in vases with minimal care. With proper propagation techniques involving bulbs (tubers), Nandini is both a practical and lucrative choice for flower producers.
Cultivation Techniques:
Nandini thrives best in soils with a pH of 6.0-6.7, particularly loam and sandy-loam soils rich in organic matter. The seed germination process requires high-quality fine soil and typically takes 10-12 days. Once seedlings have developed four pairs of leaves, they can be transplanted into the field.
Preparing the land involves applying organic and chemical fertilizers, cross-cultivating, and sprinkling lime powder. Optimal planting distances are 15 cm between plants and rows, with daily light irrigation needed for young seedlings. From planting to flowering, the process takes about 90 days, with plants producing 80-90 flowers each.
Vase Longevity and Seed Production:
Nandini flowers are not only beautiful but also durable, staying fresh for 10-15 days at room temperature. Adding a bit of sucrose to the vase water can extend this period to 20-25 days. Seed production is straightforward, using conventional methods in the field, making it accessible to a wide range of growers.
Future Prospects:
The demand for Nandini flowers is on the rise worldwide due to their long petals and vibrant color variety. Dr. Jamaluddin reports that a prominent agricultural production company in Bangladesh has shown interest in marketing Nandini seedlings. With government support and increased production efforts, the local flower market could see significant growth.
Conclusion:
Nandini's rise to prominence in the American rose garden is a testament to its unparalleled beauty and resilience. With dedicated research and optimal cultivation practices, this flower is set to become a staple in gardens and floral markets worldwide. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a budding horticulturist, Nandini promises to bring a touch of elegance and joy to your floral endeavors.
*Source: http://krishi.gov.bd/
Please do not enter any spam link in the comment box.