Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium) is a popular ornamental flower cultivated extensively for cut flower and pot plant purposes. Greenhouse cultivation of chrysanthemum provides a controlled environment that supports year-round production, enhanced quality, and higher yields.
Advantages of Greenhouse Cultivation for Chrysanthemum
- Controlled temperature and humidity
- Protection from pests, diseases, and adverse weather
- Off-season production possible
- Improved flower size, color, and stem strength
Ideal Conditions for Greenhouse Chrysanthemum Cultivation
- Temperature: 18–25°C (day), 12–16°C (night)
- Light: Requires long-day conditions for vegetative growth and short-day for flower induction
- Humidity: 60–70%
- Soil/Substrate: Well-drained, fertile, and rich in organic matter; pH 6.0–6.5
- Irrigation: Drip irrigation preferred to avoid foliage wetting
Key Cultivation Practices
- Variety Selection: Choose varieties based on intended use (cut flower, pot plant, spray type, etc.).
- Planting: Use rooted cuttings; spacing varies (15–25 cm apart) based on variety.
- Pinching: Done to promote lateral branching and increase flower number. Single or double pinch method depending on crop duration.
- Disbudding: Removal of lateral buds to promote single large bloom (mainly in standard types).
- Nutrient Management: Balanced fertilization with NPK (e.g., 200:150:150 kg/ha) and micronutrients.
- Pest/Disease Management: Common pests include aphids and mites; diseases like botrytis and powdery mildew are prevalent. Use IPM (Integrated Pest Management) practices.
Extra Activities to Improve Cultivation and Product Quality
- Photoperiod Control: Use blackout screens to control flowering by manipulating day length.
- Growth Regulators: Application of B-nine or Cycocel to manage plant height and improve flower uniformity.
- Support Systems: Use of netting or staking to support flower stems and prevent bending.
- Sanitation Measures: Regular cleaning and sterilization of tools and growing media.
- CO2 Enrichment: Enhances photosynthesis and biomass accumulation, especially during vegetative growth.
- Post-Harvest Handling: Immediate grading, bundling, and cold storage (0–2°C) to maintain quality.
Harvesting and Yield
Flowers are harvested when fully developed but before they start to decline.
Average yield: 150–200 flowers/m² depending on variety and management.
Conclusion
Greenhouse cultivation of chrysanthemum offers significant advantages in terms of productivity, quality, and market timing. By incorporating advanced practices such as photoperiod manipulation, growth regulators, and proper post-harvest handling, growers can meet market demands more effectively and achieve better economic returns.
