Commercial Floriculture in Pakistan: Tuberose Production Under Tunnel Technology

CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
Traditionally flowers are grown for aesthetic, social functions, extraction of essential oils
and manufacturing of perfumes (Byczynski, 1997). But now, floriculture has been
identified as a potential business due to divergence of farmers towards high value floral
crops and utilization of flowers in social and industrial level in Punjab, Pakistan. Hence
commercial floriculture has emerged inside the country. The most important floricultural
crops in the Pakistan cut flower trade are Roses, Tuberoses, Gladiolus, Iris, Carnation,
Narcissus, Lilies, Freesia, Statice and Gerbera etc (Riaz et al., 2007).
Pakistan falls in the arid to semi arid climatic region of the world. Potential
evapotranspiration is considerably higher as compared to rainfall received. High
temperature promotes capillary movement of salts upwards causing deposition of salts on
the soil surface. The country has the largest contiguous irrigation system in the world,
irrigating over about 17 million hectares, and accounting for 90 percent of the agricultural
production in the country (GoP, 2002). Even then the existing canal supplies are
insufficient to meet the crop water requirements. Increased pressure of population has
catalyzed the need to bring more area under cultivation to fulfill the food and fiber
demands. To bring more area under cultivation or increased in cropping intensity, some
additional water is required, but under the existing situation one of the alternative is the
exploitation of the groundwater reserves. (Chaudhry et al., 2000, 2001, 2002, Aslam et
al., 1998; and Gupta et al., 1995).
However, another option is efficient use of available water resources or to conserve soil
moisture (Ahmad et al., 1993; Dixit et al., 1971; and Kaseem et al., 1977).
Tuberose (Polianthus tuberosa L.) member of Amaryllidaceae family, native of Mexico,

is widely grown in Asia. Tuberoses are among the most fragrant of all garden plants and
are easily cultivated. It is usually cultivated in Morocco, France, Hawaii, South Africa,
1
India and China. The growers commonly use the two well-known tuberose varieties
Single Mexican and The Double Pearl. The former is preferred for its enticing fragrance,
while the Double Pearl is preferred in flower arrangements due to the density of the
flowers on its spikes. The Pearl also exudes fragrance characteristics of the tuberose, but
to a lesser extant than the Single Mexican variety. Single flowers have 6 petals while
double have 12. Tuberose blooms in late summer/autumn. Clustered spikes of tuberose
are star shaped and waxy loosely arranged on spikes that can reach 3 to 4 feet in height.
It is mostly grown around living areas for cut flowers, perfumes, fragrant oil, or garden
beds. For mass effect in the border space the corms are planted 4-6 inches apart and at a
depth of 2 inches. Mid spring is the best time to set out new corms. It can be grown
successfully in warm and humid areas with optimum temperature of 30°c. Loamy and
sandy loam soils with pH 6.5-7.5 are the best for its growth. Normal watering is required
during drying period. Well-rotted animal manure, blood and bone or a complete fertilizer
should be added in the soil before planting for its better growth.
They have been grown commercially for florists and bulb distributors. The blossoms are
also popular in weddings. The flower is very popular for its long spike; strong fragrance
and its essential oils are important components of high-grade perfumes in southern
France. It is one of the world′ s most costly perfume ingredients worth more than its
weight in gold.
As tuberose is summer crop that produce flowers from April to September, due to its
great demand it is possible to advance the off-season flowering conditions through tunnel
technology techniques. Conditions of Faisalabad are suitable for the early crop
production through tunnel technology that extends the growth period and flowering
quality of the crops. The climate of Punjab is suitable for simple unheated poly/plastic
tunnels for indoor vegetable production that is well suited for the over-bridging the gap in
markets during the cool months or to extend the season to be earlier in the market than
the produce of the open field. The plastic covering protects the crops from rainfall, by
reducing the amount of foliar diseases common in field production tomatoes.
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Enhanced early season production and improved quality are important factors for warm
season crop growers. The intent is to grow crops where otherwise they could not survive
by modifying the growing environment to prolong the harvest period, often with earlier
maturity, greater yield and improved quality, making commodities available when there
is no outdoor production (Wittwer and Castilla, 1999). Therefore growers who have the
ability to modify their climate have a competitive advantage over growers in the same
region that do not have the ability to manipulate their climate.
Mulching is the common and cheapest method for the weed control. Weeds are major
problem in agricultural production throughout the world. In order to maintain good yields
of crops, weeds must be controlled. For these reasons mulching is more common in
organic farming and its benefits include weed control, soil moisture conservation, and
soil temperature moderation (Larsson et al., 1997). Plastic mulches affects plant
microclimate by modifying the soil energy balance and restricting soil water evaporation,
therefore affecting plant growth and its yield (Tarara, 2000).
Black plastic mulch, the predominant color used in crop production, is an opaque black
body absorber and radiator. The efficiency with which black mulch increases soil
temperature can be improved by optimizing the transferring heat from the mulch to the
soil (Lamont, 1999; Aniekwe et al., 2004). Some mulch materials such as the reflective
mulches are efficient in repelling insects (AVRDC, 1990).
Humic acid contributes about 60 % of soil organic matter (Varanini and Pinton, 2006). It
is reported that humic acid shows best results relating to plant growth in soils, which have
low organic matter. So it is essential that before the application of humic acid, the organic
matter status of soil must be known (Lee and Bartlett, 1976). Application of humic acid
in combination with synthetic fertilizers produce synergistic effects on plants by
enhancing morphological, biochemical and production attributes (Babeanu et al., 2003).
It is also reported that application of humic acid increases the leaf area, leaf nitrogen and
chlorophyll content (Murillo et al., 2005).
3
Many researchers have reported that CaC2 is the potent source of plant hormone, ethylene
(C2H4) which induces improvement in yield of wheat, cotton, rice and Maize crops inn
response to the soil application of coated CaC2 (CCC). Calcium carbide, when applied to
soil it reacts with water to release acetylene (C2H2), which is reduced to ethylene (C2H4)
by soil microbes. Ethylene is a plant hormone and it significantly affects plant growth
and development at extremely low concentration. On the other hand, acetylene is an
effective inhibitor of nitrification and denitrification (Arshad and Frankenberger, 2002;
and Aulakh et al., 2001) and one of the best tools to enhance nitrogen use efficiency
(NUE).
Recent studies highlight the importance of ethylene as plant growth hormone. However,
limited use has been made of C2H4 for the improvement of agricultural productivity
because of gaseous nature and the difficulty in its direct application to soil I the field.
Because it is highly flammable and explosive, so exposure to gas cause dizziness and
could cause suffocation from decreasing the amount of oxygen. The minimum explosive
concentration (3.1%) exceeds the suggested ethylene concentrations for tomato ripening
and citrus degreening respectively by 200 and 6200 times (Sharma and Yadav, 1996).
One of the more commonly used forms is the ethylene-generating chemical (2-
chloroethyl) phosphonic acid, known as ethephon (liquid) was develop in 1960s, when
releases C2H4 chemically when absorbed by the plant tissues. This is mostly used for pre
harvest applications (Sharma and Yadav, 1996).
Quality production needs various nutrients that are applied by organic and inorganic
means. Chemical fertilizers have vital role in growth, quality of flowers, corm and cormel
production for growing Tuberose. The growers do not have any recommended doses of
chemical fertilizers especially micronutrients for quality spike, corm and cormel
production. Resulting, they are deprived of getting optimum size of spike, corm and
cormels for flower cultivation.
Intensive cut flower production demands high level of fertilization. Improper fertilization
in combination with excessive irrigation may contribute soil and environment pollution.
4
Flower crops are very much responsive to fertilizers. So, it requires higher amount of
chemical fertilizers in balance proportion for ensuring maximum flower production.
Major nutrients like nitrogen. Phosphorus, potassium along with micronutrients
noticeably increases the number of flowers, florets/spike, the longest spike and flowering
stem of gladiolus (Afify, 2005). It was also reported that hardiness of the stick, flower
color and post-harvest life could be prolonged to some extant by applying micronutrients
along with blanket dose of NPK and Mg. However, information regarding nutritional
requirements and appropriate soil management practices are lacking foe gladiolus
cultivation in Pakistan.
Most of the soils of Pakistan have pH value (alkaline), which hinders the absorption of
micronutrients. Foliar application is one of the methods to overcome this failure of plants
to absorb certain micronutrients in plant structure and physiological processes they are
treated as the limiting elements for good spike, corm and cormel production (Halder et
al., 2007).
Although plant disease resistance and tolerance are genetically controlled (Agrios, 2005)
they are affected by the environment and especially by nutrient deficiencies and toxicities
(Marschner, 1995). The physiological functions of plant nutrients are generally
understood, but there are still unanswered questions regarding the dynamic interaction
between nutrients and the plant pathogen system (Huber, 1996).
The combination of organic matter and mineral fertilizers provides the ideal
environmental conditions for plant growth (Abdel et al., 2007). Keeping in view the
significance of early crop production in the world, a field experiment was executed to
find out the effect of low tunnel, calcium carbide, humic acid and micronutrients on
important flowering crop of tuberose (Pollianthus tuberosa L.).
5
CHAPTER 2
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
The relevant literature in respect of present experiment available within and outside the
country is reviewed as under:
Compared to macronutrients, micronutrients are usually required in small amounts and
can be applied through foliage as plant is normally completely left as wet. For the leaves
to absorb them, the micronutrients must be applied as foliar spray.
Foliar application provides:
• A rapid response and is recommended when fast correction is necessary.
• A homogeneous distribution of a small quantity of micronutrients on a relatively
large surface.
Micronutrients improve general condition of plants and are known to act as catalysts in
promoting organic reactions taking place in plants (Patil et al., 2008). Being involved in
physiology of plant micronutrients contribute to the growth and yield of the plants. It is
realized that productivity of crops is being adversely affected in different areas due to
deficiencies of micronutrients (Bose and Tripathi, 1996) which has been increased
markedly due to intensive cropping, loss of top soil by erosion, loss of micronutrients by
leaching, liming of soil and decreased availability and use of farm yard manure (Fageria
et al., 2002).
Adentunji, (1990) found that mulching reduced the daytime temperature and conserved
soil moisture content. They revealed that growth and yield attributes of lettuce were
significantly higher under groundnut shell and millet – Stover mulches than in sawdust
mulch and control. Irrigating at 7 days interval is more economical, while soil
temperature above 25 ºC is deleterious to the normal growth and yield of lettuce. They
suggested that lettuce requires a soil moisture content corresponding to at least 60 %
plant available water in the 12 cm of soil for optimum yield and this can be provided with
about half of the amount of water with mulching than without mulching.
6
Dahnous et al. (1992) studied the effects of foliarly applied ethephon on field grown
plants of wheat, barley and triticales and found that treatments reduced elongation on tall
cereals and increased the harvestable yield by reducing lodging. Wiersma et al. (1996)
studied the effect of plant growth regulator (PGR) ethephon (ethylene releasing liquid
compound) on yield, lodging and plant height of wheat. The study showed that ethephon
reduced lodging and plant height, and increased grain yield on an average b 6.4 %.
According to Rao and Fritz (1997), foliar application of ethephon increased yield of rice
by 10-45 %. When roots of intact seedlings are grown in well aerated conditions, small
concentrations of ethylene provided by ethephon usually well below 1 uL have been
found to promote root elongation in many species including broad ban (Vicia faba), rice,
tomato (Lycopersicum esculentum), maize and peanut (Arachis hypogea). It can also
increase seedling root length in watermelon (Citrulus Anatus).
Downer and Faber, (1993) showed no deleterious effects when mulched with either
composted or fresh Eucalyptus cladocalyn F. Muell. in different landscape plantings.
They observed that mulched trees were less stressed (increased stomatal conductance),
and should resistance in dormancy for longer period of time and had greater root lengths
than unmulched trees. They also found that mulched soils held more available water than
unmulched soils and produced 80 % fewer weeds. Where as composting had little effect
on tree performance and was deemed unnecessary.
Chen et al. (1994) in a field experiment with cotton measured effect of nitrapyrin,
acetylene (provided by wax coated calcium carbide) and phenyl acetylene on N
transformation and de nitrification following pre sowing application of urea. They found
that losses of urea were reduced to 35-57 % in February (from 84 % of applied N) by the
application of nitrapyrin and Phenyl acetylene and nitrapyrin reduced losses over 24
weeks of sowing 57, 52, and 48 % respectively.
Bibik et al. (1995), after being inspired by muromtsev’s work, conducted two year trials
with potato in order to evaluate effect of Retprol (calcium carbide based formulation)and
CaC2 (in Liquid). They reported that the application of Retprol and CaC2 to soil resulted
7
in increased number of tubers and tuber yield. They further observed that the degree of
response to both compounds was depended on the varietals features of the potatoes. The
application of various amounts of the C2H4 generating products (Retprol and CaC2)
increased the number of tubers by 25-80 % and tuber yield by 29-121 % for both varieties
tested. They reported more effectiveness of patrol than CaC2. Chaiwanakupt et al. (1996)
also explained that addition of wax coated calcium carbide effectively inhibited the
process of nitrification and increases grain yield of rice up to 31 %.
Vos et al. (1995) scrutinized the positive effects of mulch on health of hot pepper crop.
Mulch materials consisted of rice straw and white or silvery plastic foils. Rice straw
mulch had variable effects on crop health. White and silvery plastic mulch reduced thrips
injury and delayed virus epidemics. The overall positive effects of plastic mulch on crop
health contributed to improved crop production. Mulching is therefore recommended as a
component within an integrated crop management (ICM) programmed for hot pepper.
Pinamonti, (1998) tested two composts as mulching materials in a vineyard: one was
sewage sludge and bark compost with low heavy metal content, the other was municipal
solid waste compost with a higher concentration of metals. They reduced soil temperature
fluctuations, reduced evaporation of soil water, and influenced the levels of some
nutrients measured in leaf samples. The data obtained show that the nutrients uptake was
more influenced by the physical conditions of the soil (temperature, moisture) than by the
availability of nutrients in the soil. Both the compost mulch materials had considerable
advantages for the soil management on the grapevine rows, by reducing chemical weed
control and allowing for the substitution of chemical fertilizers with no loss in vigor,
yield or quality of musts.
Schonbeck and Evanylo, (1998) evaluated the effect of hay, compost, plastic and paper
mulch on soil temperature, soil moisture and yield of tomato. They found that organic
mulches reduce soil temperature and maintained higher soil moisture levels than other
treatments. Increased in temperature by 1-2 °C and 4 °C respectively by black plastic
mulch and oiled paper with slight decrease in soil moisture in lateral one. Differential
8
yield response was observed by influencing and modifying soil temperature regime and
soil moisture level respectively with highest yield in black plastic mulch and lowest in
organic mulches, with paper mulch intermediate.
Olasantan, (1999) conducted an experiment to observe the influence of mulching on the

hydrothermal regime and emergence, growth and tuber yield of white yam. Significant
improvement in the soil moisture content of the 15 cm surface layer by 50 ± 120 g / kg
was observed and decreased the maximum soil temperature by 2 ± 78C at 15 cm depth in
the early growing season (March ± April). The emergence and development of yam
seedlings were significantly lower in unmulched plots than in mulched treated plots.
Mulching significantly increased tuber yield by about 10 ± 15 mg / ha / season. The
number of leaves per plant, vine diameter and leaf index were also significantly greater in
plots mulched in October ± December than plots mulched in January or February.
Rodrigues et al. (1999) recorded the mulching effect on Rose plant cvs. Anna and Sari in
closed soil less systems. There was a reduction in the water consumption of 35 or 16 %
corresponding to cultivars Anna and Sari, respectively, when the plants were mulched. A
lower electrical conductivity and higher water content of the mulched substrate were
recorded both in fall and in spring/summer. The results showed significant differences in
flower production and quality, using the mulched system. Higher water use efficiency
was caused by lower evaporation and overall lower increase of the electrical conductivity
of the substrate.
Singh and Bhattacharjee, (1999) studied the concentrations of nutrients in tissue

components of cut roses (Rosa hybrida L.) to assist in developing a fertilizer management
system that sustains a high level of production but also is environment friendly. The
flower represented 28.5 %, leaves 46.0 % and stem 25.5 % of the total weight of the
stalk. However, actual rates of N and K, as well as other nutrients applied, should be
adjusted based on soil and tissue analysis results. Removal of nutrients will be greater if
stalks harvested are >45 cm in length, which may necessitate additional nutrient
application, depending on soil conditions.
9
Haywood, (2000) checked the effect of different mulching and hexazinone herbicide.
After three growing seasons, seedlings on the mulch and hexazinone treatments were
taller than those on the check plots. About 59 % of the mulched and hexazinone treated
seedlings had grown out of the grass stage (at least 12 cm tall) compared to 17 % of the
check seedlings. After five growing seasons, the percentage of longleaf pine seedlings out
of the grass stage was similar on all treatments and averaged 87 %. However, these better
growing pines were taller on the mulch and hexazinone treatments (a 142-cm average)
than on the checks (78 cm). Pine straw was ineffective mulch probably because the straw
smothered the seedlings. The long life saplings were tallest when the perforated
polyethylene mat was used.
Mukesh et al. (2001) investigated the effect of foliar application of zinc, copper and iron
@ 0, 250, 500 and 1000 ppm on the yield and quality of Gladiolus grandiflorus cv.
Mirela. Plants treated with micronutrients exhibited better results with respect to growth,
flowering and yield compared to the control. Foliar application of Fe, Cu and Zn @ 1000
ppm showed better results with respect to growth, flowering and other yield parameters.
In general, the effective treatment for increasing the yield attributes and quality
parameters of Gladiolus grandiflorus was foliar application of Zn @ 1000 ppm.
Randall et al. (2001) studied the effect of acetylene generated from calcium carbide on
nitrification in soil and yield of irrigated maize seedling and describe novel matrix
consisting of calcium carbide and polyethylene that delivers acetylene in soil over
extended period resulted in delayed nitrification. They found in irrigated maize (Zea
mays L.) that the matrix delayed the disappearance of ammonium derived from urea but
gave on benefit for crop yield in a soil that was highly responsive to N, where N losses
(leaching and denitrification) were not significant.
Shigfeumi, (2001) investigated the effect of nonwoven fabric mulching on yield and
quality of cut flower in spray conditions. Under nonwoven fabric mulching, the yield in
4-row planting density with training was higher compared with that in conventional (6-
10
row planting density with training, but without mulching). Moreover, after pinching, but
without training, the yield of mid and late season varieties under 4-row planting density
and nonwoven fabric mulching, increased by 30 % (Light Pink Barbara) and 19 %
(Scarlet Queen) compared with conventional cultivation. Under nonwoven fabric
mulching and 4-row planting density, the quality of the second havest improved
compared with that of under nonwoven fabric mulching and 6-row planting density.
Kang and Iersel, (2002) studied the effect of nutrient solution concentration on growth of
alyssum (Lobularia maritima), celosia (Celosia argentia), dianthus (Dianthus chinensis),
gomphrena (Gomphrena globosa), stock (Matthiola incana) and Zinnia (Zinnia elegans).
Plants were grown with five different concentration of Hoagland nutrient solution. The
concentration of N, P, K, S, Ca, Mg, B and Fe in the shoots of dianthus increased while
the concentrations of Mo and Zn decreased with increasing fertilizer concentration.
Gomphrena and stock can tolerate relatively high levels of root zone salinity. Flower
diameter of zinnia decreased with increasing nutrient concentrations. In general, the
growing medium pH was similar with low concentrations (0.125, 0.25 and 0.5) but
decreased with a further increase in fertilizer concentration.
Mahmood et al. (2002) in a pot experiment studied the effect of time of application of
encapsulated calcium carbide with and without NPK fertilizers on growth and yield of
wheat. The study showed that plants responded positively to CaC2 application (60 kg ha-
1
). CaC2 treatment after one week, of germination was most effective in increasing
number of tillers, length of spikes, number of spikelets, total biological yield, straw and
grain yield of wheat, while plant height did not increase significantly with the application
of CaC2. Chemical analysis of plants revealed that K and P contents in grains and straw
increased when CaC2 was applied with 120-90-60 kg ha-1 (N-P2O5-K2O) compare to
fertilizer alone.
Prabhat et al. (2002) stated that foliar application of 0.2 % FeSO4 singly or in various
combinations at three leaf or six leaf stages of gladiolus induced flowering earlier than
the other treatments such as ZnSO4 or MnSO4. It also increased plant height and number
11
of leaves. Spike length, number of florets, weight of spike and size of florets were
significantly increased with 0.2 % FeSO4+ 0.2 % ZnSO4 application. Flowering duration
was longest with o.4% FeSO4 + 0.2% ZnSO4 where as corm production plant–1 was
highest with 0.4% FeSO4 + 0.4% MnSO4 + ZnSO4.
Saleem et al. (2002) conducted a field experiment to evaluate influence of encapsulated

calcium carbide on growth, yield and chemical composition of okra. They found that
–1
CaC2 application @ 90 kg was most effective in increasing horizontal expansion of
plant, yield of green pods, number of green pods per plant, fresh and dry weights of shoot
and root and internodes length, while plant height decreased with increase in CaC2
application rate. The chemical analysis of plant material revealed that P and K in green
pods and roots were increased with increase in CaC2 application rate. P contents in shoots
were decreased while that of K increased with increase in CaC2 application from 0-90 kg
ha-1.
Salma et al. (2002) studied the effects of 50 mg L-1 levels of micronutrients (Zn and Mn),
as single and combined treatments on the growth, oil yield and oil constituents of cumin
plants. Application of micronutrients had significant positive effects, in most cases, on
growth measurements and chemical composition of cumin plants. A combined treatment
of the micronutrients gave the highest values in this respect. In the herb and seed oils, 21
constituents were identified, representing 90.2 and 95.6 % of the total amounts,
respectively. Eleven components were similar in both herb and seed oils. Cumin aldehyde
was found as the main component at concentrations of 53.6 % for seed oil and 40.5 % for
herb oil. Among the new identified components in the seed oil were perilla aldehyde,
acoradiene and benzoic acid 4-(1-methylethyl). These components were found in the herb
oil, as well. The oils of herb and seeds of cumin contained considerable amounts of
oxygenated monoterpenes. Both oils were characterized by small amounts of
monoterpenoid and sesquiterpene hydrocarbons.
Pervea et al. (2003) investigated that boron sprays in apple (Malus domestica) tree
consistently increased fruit yield. Applying boron spray at the pink flowering stage
12
increased flower cluster and early season leaf boron concentrations. In the second study,
one quarter of the annual boron fertilizer requirement was tank mixed with CaCl 2 sprays
applied starting in the early June for bitter pit control. This treatment consistently
increased “Scarlet Gala” fruit Boron concentration. The results of these experiment
indicated that applying boron sprays at the pink flowering stage timing and mixing boron
with CaCl2 sprays applied for bitter pit control are useful practices to enhance boron
spray efficacy and convenience of application.
Velinden, (2003) observed changes in the nutritional status of corollas during

development and senescence. Petunia hybrida cv. Mitchell, s corollas were analyzed for
macronutrients (N, P, K) and micronutrients (B, Fe, Cu, Mn, Zn, Mo) content, dry
weight, fresh weight and ethylene production. Carbon content decreased at slightly lower
rates than dry weight during corolla development between anthesis and senescence, while
fresh weight and ethylene production followed pattern expected of climacteric flowers.
Nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content decline during development. Both
phosphorus and potassium content gradually declined throughout development with
overall losses of about 75% and 40% respectively. Nitrogen content declined 50% during
development but losses occurred only during the final stages of senescence. No
significant changes were observed in sulphur, calcium, magnesium and micronutrient
content of the corollas during development.
Wilson et al. (2003) checked the effect of compost media on wine sage (Salvia Spp. Sell
X roenen Schultes Van Houttei), blue anise sage (Salvia gauranitica St. Hil. Ex Benth.
Black and Blue), and indigo spires salvia (S. longispicata Martius Galeotti x S. farincea
Benth. Indigo Spires). Initial physical, chemical and elemental analyses of the media
indicated that compost alone had higher pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total porosity
(TP), bulk density (BD), particle density (PD), N, C, P, Ca, Cu, Fe, and B. Heavy metal
(Cd and Pb) contents of compost did not exceed EPA 503 Rule limits for biosolid usage.
After 6 weeks, plants were measured for leaf nutrient content, growth (leaf and stem dry
weights, stem lengths), and quality (number of flowers, leaf greenness, and subjective
quality ratings). Plants grown in compost had leaf SPAD readings (leaf greenness),
13
number of flowers, and visual quality ratings that were generally similar (Indigo Spires)
or slightly reduced (Van Houttei) than plants grown in peat-based media. However, for
each species (except for Van Houttei grown in 505 compost using drip irrigation), plants
were of marketable quality, regardless of irrigation system or medium.
Chaudhry et al. (2004) evaluated the efficiency of different mulching materials on

moisture conservation, soil properties and plant growth. The infiltration rate of the soil
increased by 30 % at the end of the study. Maximum saving of 45 % irrigation water was
recorded under polythene sheet followed by 30 % under rice straw and 15 % in
mechanical loosing of soil. Maximum plant height was observed under mulching through
mechanical loosing of indicating that mechanical loosing of soil had some positive
impact on plant height where as non-application of mulching material had the minimum
plant height.
Gulshan et al. (2004) studied the effect of plastic mulching in bed planting method and
concluded from the study that higher yield of baby corn can be obtained in bed planting
method and further plastic mulching in bed planting method boosted the baby corn yield
over unmulched soil condition. Plastic mulch increases minimum temperature of soil,
accelerated early growth and plant height, fruiting of plants and gave satisfactory weed
control without any application of herbicide.
14
Smit and Combrink (2004) evaluated the effect of nutrient solution on tomatoes in
greenhouse. Four nutrient solutions with born at different levels (0.02, 0.16, 0.32,
and 0.64 mg L-1) were used. Leaf analysis indicated that the uptake of Ca, Mg, Na,
Zn and B increased with higher boron levels. At the low boron level, leaves were
brittle and appeared pale green and very high flower abscission percentage was
noticed. Fruit lacked firmness at the low boron level and this problem worsened
during storage. At the 0.16 mg Kg-1 boron level fruit set, fruit development, color,
total soluble solids, firmness and shelf life seemed to be close to optimum. The
highest boron level had no determinant effect on any of the yield and quality related
parameters. However, using “Soluber” as a source of boron, higher levels decreased
soluble Mn concentration in nutrient solutions, probably owing to the precipitation of
insoluble MnO2. This was reflected in reduced leaf-Mn concentration.
Yaseen et al. (2004) conducted field experiment and pot trials to investigate the effect of
calcium carbide on growth and yield of rice, wheat and cotton crops. The results showed
that encapsulated calcium carbide released large amount of C2H2, which is slowly
reduced to C2H4 by the soil microorganisms. It was observed that CaC2 slow down the
release of NO3- from applied urea that might help in improving NUE. In another field
experiment, Yaseen et al. (2005) evaluated the effect of encapsulated CaC2 on growth
and chemical composition of rice (Oryza sativa L.). The results revealed that
encapsulated CaC2 applied alone or along with chemical fertilizer significantly increased
early emergence of panicle, number of tillers and paddy yield. Soil amended with
encapsulated CaC2 resulted in 20 % increased in paddy yield over NPK fertilizer alone.
Plant analysis also indicates that encapsulated CaC2 promoted N concentration and
uptake by plant, which is supported by the reduced oxidation of applied fertilizer NH4+ to
NH3- in the presence of encapsulated CaC2.
Zheng et al. (2004) studied the effect of nutrient solution on potted gerbera (Gerbera
Jamesinii “Shogun”) under recirculating sub irrigation conditions. Plants were grown
under one of four nutrient levels. Leaves from plants that received 10 % and 25 %
strength solution showed significantly less greenness than that of the plants that receive
15
50 % and 100 % strength nutrient solutions. There were intervienal chlorosis symptoms
on the younger leaves of some plants in the 10 % and 25 % strength nutrient treatments.
It is suspected that this intervienal chlorosis was due to iron (Fe) deficiency caused by the
increased substrate pH. Nutrient salts accumulated in the top section of the grown
substrate under all treatments levels; however, no phytotoxic effects were observed. No
differences in water use (141 ml plant-1 day-1) were observed among the various nutrient
levels. Fertilizer inputs were reduced in the 50 %, 25 % and 10% treatments by 54 %, 75
% and 90 % respectively, relative to the 100 % treatment. After 4 weeks under
recirculating conditions, the qualities of the nutrient solutions were still within acceptable
limits.
Ehret et al. (2005) studied the effect of non-recirculating (open) and nutrient system, or a
recirculating (closed) nutrient system with or without one of five amendments on
greenhouse roses. Recirculating had no effect on harvest parameters during the first 8
weeks of the harvest period, but had a negative impact on stem length during the second
8 weeks, and on stem number and length when averaged over the entire harvest duration.
Differences were not likely caused by changes in electrical conductivity or macro nutrient
concentrations of the nutrient solutions. Amendments to the recirculating solutions
consisted of increased concentrations of Ca, B or Si, reduced pH, or use of an adsorbent
resin to remove specific organic molecules. All amendments mitigated the negative
effects of recirculation on at least two harvest parameters, but only during the second half
of the harvest period. With the exception of the intentional changes, mineral status of the
nutrient solutions was similar in all recirculating treatments. It is likely that the reduction
in rose quality and quantity in recirculation is caused by a combination of factors, some
of which were ameliorated through the addition of specific amendments to the solution.
De et al, (2005) conducted an experiment to study the efficacy of some mulching

materials for soil moisture conservation and yield of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea) in
summer under rain fed conditions. The mulches used were water hyacinth (WH), rice
straw (RS), banana leaves covered with grass (BL), jute stick (JS) and white polythene
sheet (PS). The WH mulch conserved more soil moisture than the other mulches. The soil
16
temperature at the root zone depth was also reduced with the use of WH mulch. The
mulches WH and RS manifested higher kernel yields of 0.67 and 0.61 t ha-1 respectively.
The soil moisture content with ridge planting method was 8.4 %, significant higher than
the planting method (7.3 %). Soil temperature with flat (33.7 °C) and ridge (33.2 °C)
planting method were statistically similar.
Henschke and Jerzy, (2006) conducted an experiment on height of shrubs, length of

developed shoots, number of flowers and flower diameter shrubs of five rose cultivars
from the ground cover group: Nozami, Alba Meidiland, The Fairy, Rote Max, Graf, and
Sommerabend. Mulching with pine bark layer of 5 or 10 cm thickness was achieved on
soil after planting of shrubs. The abundance of flowering in mulched shrubs increased
seven and sixteen times. They concluded that mulched shrubs were higher and produced
more shoot. Along with an increase in bark layer thickness, the height of plants also
increased.
Ramakrishna et al. (2006) studied the impact of mulching materials (polythene, rice straw
and chemical) on weed infestation, soil temperature, and soil moisture on groundnut
production. They recorded that polythene and straw mulch were effective in suppressing
the weed infestation. Polythene mulch increased the soil temperature in winter by about
6-8 °C at 5 cm depth and by 4-8 °C at 10 cm depth. Mulches prevent soil water
evaporation retaining soil moisture. Groundnut plants in polythene and straw mulched
plots were generally tall, vigorous and reached early flowering.
Szewezuk and Gudarowska, (2006) conducted an experiment to check the influence of

herbicide fallow; mulching with pine bark; and mulching with Black polypropylene
fabric in nectarine “Redgold” on seedling Prunus mandshurica. Using of plastic mulch
improved the cropping of the trees in the first two years of yielding. The total yield for 8
years was higher in the case of the trees mulched with polypropylene fabric, but no
significant differences were noted. Mulching with pine bark did not have the influence on
the cropping of nectarine trees during the 8 years of yielding. The tree vigor, expressed
by trunk cross- sectional area, was more intensive in the case of the trees mulched with
17
pine bark. Mulching with polypropylene fabric is the most advisable to control weeds in a
nectarine orchard because of the lowest application of active substances ha -1.
Wu et al. (2006) evaluated the effect of moss, sawdust or bark mulch and an un-mulched
control on three years old highbush blueberry plants. Results showed that the growth
under mulching treatment of “Bluecrop” were better than that under the control
treatment. In “ Bluecrop”, plant height and width, shoot length, dry weight of 100 leaves
and dry weight of roots were in the order of moss > bark > sawdust > control. The
photosynthetic rate and respiration increased in mulched plants compared to the control
and was in the order of moss > bark > sawdust. Mulching is an important method for
blueberry cultivation and moss mulching was found to be the best.
Amjad et al. (2007) studied the effect of plastic mulches in poly/plastic tunnel and
concluded that vegetative and reproductive traits of hot pepper hybrids significantly
improved by the application of plastic mulches in poly/plastic tunnels. Complete
inhibition of weed growth was also observed under black plastic mulch that could be
helpful to boost hot pepper production in poly/plastic tunnel.
Kar and Kumar, (2007) observed higher yield and better crop growth in the mulched
plots, which might be due to conservation of soil moisture and reduction of soil
temperature by 4-8 °C. Straw mulch at a rate of 6 t ha-1 was applied during the first
earthing up in half of the plots to observe the variation of plant growth, water use
efficiency and tuber production between mulched and non-mulched plots. Two years of
pooled data with four irrigations resulted in air-dry tuber yields of 14.9 and 11.2 t ha -1 for
the mulched and non-mulched plots, respectively. Significantly (p<0.05) higher leaf area
index, water use efficiency and intercepted photo synthetically active radiation (IPAR)
were recorded in the mulched plots compared to the non-mulched plots under the same
irrigation treatment.
Mahajan et al. (2007) determined the effect of mulching in relation to irrigation and
planting method on soil temperature, weed control, baby corn growth, water use and yield
18
in maize. Their study revealed that plastic mulch increases baby corn yield by 18.9 % and
77.5 % over rice straw and unmulched treatment respectively. They also found that
plastic mulch at irrigation level of 0.8 ETc results into significant increase in the yield by
28.6 % over unmulched soil condition even it was irrigated at 1.2 Etc and resulted 30.6 %
of water saving.
Mahmood et al. (2007) reported that when different doses of calcium carbide (CaC2)
were tested at various growth stages of with and without nitrogen fertilizer (urea) in a pot
experiment. CaC2 was applied @ 15, 30 and 45 mg kg-1 soil with fertilizer @ 60 mg kg-1
soil at sowing, one, two and four weeks after sowing . Number of tillers, grain yield and
N uptake were significantly improved by the application of CaC2 plus NPK compared to
fertilizer alone and control. Reduction in plant height while increased tillering were
observed as inhibitory and stimulatory effects of calcium carbide. Maximum number of
tillers, grain yield and N uptake were observed by the application of 30 mg kg -1 among
doses of CaC2 while two weeks after sowing among time of application of CaC2 were
found better than all other treatments.
Baloach et al. (2008) tested a commercial foliar fertilizer, HiGrow which is a

composition of various macro and micronutrients on chilies at the concentrations 4, 5, 6,
7 and 8 mlL-1 water in addition to soil applied NPK fertilizers at 50-50-25 kg ha -1 to
investigate their associative effect on production of green chilies. HiGrow at 8 mlL-1
water resulted 68 cm plant height, 6.93 branches plant-1, 118.86 fruits plant-1, 4.19 cm
fruit length, 395g fresh chilies fruit weight plant-1 and 14977 kg fresh chilies yield ha-1;
while decreasing concentration to 7mlL-1 water produced 67.86 cm plant height, 6.53
branches plant-1 117.20 fruit plant-1, 4.14 cm fruit length, 391.33 g fresh chilies weight
plant-1 and 14562.33 kg fresh chilies yield ha-1. HiGrow at 6 mlL-1 water formed 66.46 cm
plant height, 5.80 branches plant-1, 112.36 fruits plant-1, 3.89 cm fruit length, 351.66 g
fresh chilies weight plant-1 and 12696.33 kg fresh chilies yield ha-1. Similarly, the reduced
HiGrow concentration to 5 mlL-1 and 4mlL-1 water caused significant negative effect on
all the growth and yield components of chilies. However, the control plots produced
63.46 cm plant height, 4.20 branches plant-1, 93.06 fruits plant-1, 2.87 cm fruit length,
388.33 g fresh chilies weight plant-1 and 10525.00 kg fresh chilies yield ha-1 which were
19
significantly lesser than foliar fed plots. There was a consecutive improvement in growth
and yield components of chilies with increase in HiGrow concentration, but such increase
beyond 7 ml L-1 water was not so pronounced and hence 7 ml L-1 water was considered to
be an optimum HiGrow concentration for commercial production of chilies.
Kayum et al. (2008) evaluated the potential of mulching material on growth and yield of
three different varieties with four mulching treatments viz. water hyacinth, straw,
am-ada leaf and banana leaf with a control (no mulch) under rain fed condition. The
combinations of mulching and variety exhibited significant variation in some yield
components and yield. The combination of water hyacinth and Ratan produced the
maximum yield (62.16 t/ha) and thus the experiment revealed that water hyacinth
and straw mulches have potentiality to increase the yield of tomato.
Peck et al. (2008) compared two varieties of bread wheat grown at six rates of Zn.
Including foliar application of Zn. The relative amount of gliadin and polymeric protein
were measured by size exclusion HPLC. Applying Zn increased grain yield at three sites
and altered protein quality at two of these. Foliar Zn applications doubled grain Zn
concentration, reduced the proportion of gliadin and SDS-unextractable polymeric
protein and increased the proportion of SDS-extractable polymeric protein. Heat stress
during grain filling was associated with a high proportion of gliadin and low proportions
of the polymeric protein in the grain. The results demonstrated that Zn nutrition can alter
protein composition and the effects of Zn may interact with grain filling temperatures.
Solaiman et al. (2008) examined the effect of black plastic mulch and concluded that
flower initiation with plants under black plastic mulch was earlier than the straw mulch or
control and was identical with water hyacinth mulch. It was might be due to the increased
soil temperature of black polythene mulch treatment, that was directly related to early
initiation of flower and the increased cumulative number of flowers.
20
CHAPTER 3
MATERIALS AND METHODS

Present research was carried out in Floriculture Research Area, Institute of Horticultural
Sciences, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan. After site selection sample from
various blocks of field was collected to assess physio-chemical properties (pH, EC,
texture, organic matter) and fertility status of the soil. Soil was thoroughly prepared,
leveled and blocks were laid out according to the layout of the experiment. While laying
out, a basal dose of NPK was applied @ 100 kg per acre uniformly to all treatments.
There were two cultivars of tuberose Single Mexican (V1) and the Double Pearl (V2). The
experiment was consisting of ten treatments and each treatment was replicated four times.
Humic acid was applied @ 8% per plant. Paint coated calcium carbide was applied @
200 mg per plant and micronutrients was applied by foliar application 5-6 ml per 100 ml.
The treatments were as under;
T0: Control
T1: Mulch
T2: Low tunnel
T3: Mulch + low tunnel
T4: Calcium carbide
T5: Humic acid
T6: Micronutrients
T7: Mulch + Calcium carbide
T8: Mulch + Humic acid
T9: Mulch + Micronutrients
Sowing of single variety was carried out in last week of January 2009 and sowing of
double variety was carried out in last week of February 2009 according to the treatments.
21
Micronutrients, humic acid and calcium carbide were applied when plants attain height of
2-3 inches. During the course of experiment, all other cultural practices like weeding,
plant protection measures, macronutrients application, earthing up etc. was similar for all
treatments. Plants were allowed to grow and data regarding growth, flowering and quality
indices was collected using standard procedures.
GROWTH INDICES:
3.1 Sprouting date
Sprouting date of all plants in each treatment was noted individually.
3.2 Sprouting percentage (%)
Sprouting was observed and noted by counting the sprouted bulb after 60 days for
single variety and 30 days for double variety from sowing. Then their percentage was
calculated.
3.3 Days to leave emergence
Data regarding first leave emergence was calculated from the date of sowing and
their date was calculated.
3.4 Number of leaves per plant
The total number of leaves per plant was counted from sprouting of 1st leave up to
end of research.
3.5 Leaf area (cm)
The leaf areas of the mature leaves of all plants in treatments were measured by
the leaf area meter. Leaf area was taken in centimeters.
3.6 Days to spike emergence
Total numbers of days were counted from sowing date to spike emergence date of
all plants individually in the experiment.
3.7 Plant height (cm)
The height of the plants was taken when plants get fully matured. The plant height
was measured in centimeters from the base of the plant to the top of the last floret.
22
3.8 Plant height at the time of tunnel removal
The heights of all the plants were noted at the date when low tunnels were
removed. The tunnel was removed at 28 April 2009.
FLOWER INDICES:
3.9 Florets emergence date (Days)
The total numbers of days were counted from the date of sowing to first floret
emergence date.
3.10 Number of florets per spike
The total numbers of florets per spike were counted of each plant in each
treatment when they get fully matured.
3.11 Length of spike (cm)
The total length of each spike was counted when they get fully matured. The
length was measured in centimeters.
3.12 Thickness of spike (mm)
The thickness of all the spikes in all plants was measured with the help of vernier
caliper in milli meters.
3.13 Floret diameter (mm)
The diameters of all the florets were measured with the help of vernier caliper in
milli meters.
QUALITY INDICES:
3.14 Color of florets
For color evaluation, the method of scoring was used. According to the method 5
judges were appointed who gave the points ranging from 1-12 to the flowers of each
treatment regarding to their color. For this purpose two spikes in each treatment was kept
in the competition.
23
3.15 Fragrance of florets
For fragrance evaluation, the method of scoring was used. According to the
method 5 judges were appointed who gave the points ranging from 1-12 to the flowers of
each treatment regarding to their fragrance. For this purpose two spikes in each treatment
was kept in the competition.
3.16 Earliness (Days)
Earliness of each treatment was calculated from the controlled treatment at the
end of experiment. The earliness was calculated in days.
STATISTICAL ANALYSIS
Experiment was laid out according to Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD)
having ten treatments with four replications. Data regarding growth, flower and quality
indices were collected, compared and analyzed statistically according to Least Significant
Difference (LSD) test at 5 % level of probability.
24
CHAPTER 4
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan to investigate the effect of
different techniques on extending the growth period and flowering quality of tuberose
(Polianthes tuberosa L.). There were two cultivars of tuberose Single Mexican (V1) and
the Double Pearl (V2). The experiment was consisting of ten treatments and each
treatment was replicated four times. Humic acid was applied @ 8 % per plant. Paint
coated calcium carbide was applied @ 200 mg per plant and micronutrients was applied
by foliar application @ 5-6 ml per 100 ml. Experiment was laid out according to
Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD). Data regarding growth, flower and quality
There were ten treatments in the experiment and each treatment was replicated four
times. These treatments included T0 (Control), T1 (Mulch), T2 (Low tunnel), T3 (Mulch +
low tunnel), T4 (Calcium carbide), T5 (Humic acid), T6 (Micronutrients), T7 (Mulch +
Calcium carbide), T8 (Mulch + Humic acid) and T9 (Mulch + Micronutrients). Data were
recorded on the different parameters like Sprouting date, Sprouting percentage, Days to
leave emergence, Number of leaves per plant, Leaf area (cm), Days to spike emergence,
Plant height (cm), Plant height at the time of tunnel removal, Florets emergence date
(Days), Number of florets per spike, Length of spike (cm), Thickness of spike (mm),
Floret diameter (mm), Color of florets, Fragrance of florets, Earliness (Days).
The results obtained are interpreted below in order of their occurrence;
25
Table 4.1. Analysis of Variance for Sprouting Date of Polianthes tuberosa
Source DF Sum Of Mean F
Square Square
REPLICATION 3 21.2 7.1
VARIETY 1 29291.9 29291.9
REPLICATI*VARIETY 3 1.4 0.5
TREATMENT 9 7792.2 865.8 38.01 **
ERROR 63 1435.2 22.8
TOTAL 79 38541.9
* = Significant (P<0.05); ** = Highly significant (P<0.01)
Table 4.1.1. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Sprouting Date of Polianthes

tuberosa for variety
Variety Mean Homogeneous Groups
1 64.264 A
2 25.994 B
Table 4.1.2. LSD all-pairwise comparisons test of sprouting date of Polianthes

tuberosa for treatment
Original Ranked
Order Order
T0 T0
T1 T4
T2 T6
T3 T5
T4 T1
T5 T7
T6 T8
T7 T9
T8 T2
T9 T3
26
Fig. 4.1.3. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Sprouting Date of Polianthes
tuberosa for treatment
100
80
Days
60
40
20
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Treatments
Single Variety
Fig. 4.1.4. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Sprouting Date of Polianthes

tuberose for treatment
35
30
25
Days
20
15
10
5
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Treatments
Double Variety
27
Analysis of variance of data regarding sprouting date shown in the table 4.1
illustrates that sprouting date of different treatments was significant at alpha level 0.05
indicates that different treatments have a significant difference in sprouting date. Mean
values of the comparison of the two varieties are shown in table 4.1.1 which illustrate that
single variety took more days to sprout as compare to the double variety. Single variety
took 64.264 days and double variety took 25.994 days to sprout.
Mean values for comparison of treatments were subjected to Latin Square Design
test and their means are arranged in table 4.1.2 that illustrate that T3 (Mulch + Low
tunnel) took 37.0375 days to sprout followed by T2 (Low tunnel) and T9 (Mulch +
Micronutrients) that took 43.425 and 60.875 days respectively. While the T0 (Control)
took 78.075 days for sprouting that are much long than the T3 (Mulch + Low tunnel).
Other treatments like T8, T7, T1, T5, T6 and T4 took 61.8, 63.9875, 63.9875, 77.625, 77.75
and 78.075 days respectively. Fig 4.1.3 and 4.1.4 shows the graphs for treatment means
for single and double variety respectively.
The observations can be compared with the results of Olasantan, (1999) showed
that tunnel and mulch had great impact in the early season growth and flowering.
Mulches also significantly increase the tuber yield of white yam plant.
28
Table 4.2. Analysis of Variance Table for Sprouting Percentage of Polianthes
tuberosa
Square Square
REPLICATION 3 826 275.3
VARIETY 1 29453 29452.8
REPLICATI*VARIETY 3 293 97.8
TREATMENT 9 83290 9254.5 12.30 **
ERROR 63 47412 752.6
TOTAL 79 161275
Table 4.2.1. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Sprouting Percentage of

Polianthes tuberosa for variety
2 64.250 A
1 25.875 B
Table 4.2.2. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Sprouting Percentage of

Polianthes tuberosa for treatment
Original Ranked
Order Order
T0 T2
T1 T3
T2 T1
T3 T7
T4 T8
T5 T9
T6 T4
T7 T5
T8 T6
T9 T0
29
Fig. 4.2.3. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Sprouting Percentage of
Sprouting Percentage
120
100
80
60
40
20
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Treatments
Single Variety
Fig. 4.2.4. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Sprouting Percentage of

Sprouting Percentage
120
100
80
60
40
20
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Treatments
Double Variety
30
Analysis of variance of data regarding sprouting percentage are shown in the table
4.1 illustrates that sprouting percentage of different treatments was significant at alpha
level 0.05 indicates that different treatments have a significant difference in sprouting
percentage. Mean values of the comparison of the two varieties are shown in table 4.2.1
which illustrate that single variety had more sprouting percentage that was 64.250 % as
compare to the single variety that was 25.875 %.
Mean values for comparison of treatments were subjected to Latin Square Design
test and their means are arranged in table 4.1.2 that illustrate that T3 (Mulch + Low
tunnel) and T2 (Low tunnel) both had 100 % sprouting percentage followed by T 1, T7, T8
and T9 that took 56.88, 47.50, 47.50 and 47.50 % sprouting percentage. While the T0
(Control) took 6.25 % sprouting percentage that are much long than the T3 (Mulch + Low
tunnel) and T2 (Low tunnel). Other treatments like T4, T5 and T6 took 15 % sprouting
percentage each. Fig 4.2.3 and 4.2.4 shows the graphs for treatment means for single and
double variety respectively. Fig 4.2.3 shows that T4, T5 and T6 shows 0 % sprouting
percentage in single variety while in double variety T4, T5 and T6 shows 15 % sprouting
percentage. T7, T8 and T9 in double variety show the sprouting percentage of 97.5 % each
in double variety while in single variety same treatments shows 15 % sprouting
percentage. Over all response of Polianthes tuberosa towards sprouting percentage of
double variety was better than the single variety that is clearly mentioned in fig. 4.2.3 and
4.2.4.
The observations can be compared with the results of Olasantan, (1999) showed
that tunnel and mulch had great impact in the early season growth and flowering.
Mulches greatly improve the soil moisture contents and lower the soil temperature.
Mulches also significantly increase the tuber yield of white yam plant. These results also
match with the results of Ramakrishna et al., (2006) that polyethylene and mulches
generally grow vigorously, tall and reached early flowering.
31
Table 4.3 Analysis of Variance Table for Days to Leave Emergence of Polianthes
tuberosa
Source DF Sum of Mean F
square square
VARIETY 1 31099.8 31099.8
TREATMENT 9 7349.6 816.6 33.82 **
ERROR 63 1521.4 24.1
TOTAL 79 40009.3
Table 4.3.1 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Days to Leave Emergence of

Polianthes tuberosa for Variety
1 64.795 A
2 25.361 B
Table 4.3.2 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Days to Leave Emergence of

Polianthes tuberosa for Treatment
Original Ranked
Order Order
T0 T0
T1 T4
T2 T6
T3 T5
T4 T1
T5 T7
T6 T8
T7 T9
T8 T2
T9 T3
Fig. 4.3.3 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Days to Leave Emergence of
32
100
80
Days
60
40
20
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Treatments
Single Variety
Fig. 4.3.4 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Days to Leave Emergence of

40
30
Days
20
10
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Treatments
Double Variety
33
Analysis of variance of data regarding days to leave emergence shown in the table
4.3 which illustrates that days to leave emergence of different treatments was significant
at alpha level 0.05 indicates that different treatments have a significant difference in days
to leave emergence. Mean values of the comparison of the two varieties are shown in
table 4.3.1 which illustrate that single variety took more days to emerge the leave as
compare to the double variety. Single variety took 64.795 days and double variety took
25.361 days to leaves emergence.
Comparison of means for days to leave emergence are shown in table 4.3.2 which
illustrate that T3 (Mulch + Low tunnel) and T2 (Low tunnel) took 44.3875 and 36.125
days for leaves emergence respectively followed by T9, T8 and T7 that took 63.425,
65.1225 and 64.3 days for leave emergence respectively. While the T0 (control) took
79.9125 days to leave emergence. Fig 4.3.3 and 4.3.4 shows the graphs for treatment
means for single and double variety respectively. Fig 4.3.3 shows that T4, T5 and T6
(Calcium carbide, Humic acid and Micronutrients) took 77.46, 75.9875 and 76.365 days
respectively for leaves emergence while the similar treatments for the double variety took
31.86364, 31 and 30.7 days respectively.
Over all response of Polianthes tuberosa towards the days to first leave
emergence of double variety is less than the single variety. This is due to the availability
of the water, weather conditions at the time of sowing of double and single variety,
adoptability to the particular environment because double variety is sown very rare in this
climatic conditions as compare to the single variety.
These findings are very similar with the findings of the Olasantan, (1999) showed
that tunnel and mulch had great impact in the early season growth and flowering that
ultimately reduces the days to leave emergence.
34
Table 4.4. Analysis of Variance Table for Number of Leaves per Plant of Polianthes
tuberosa
Square Square
REPLICATION 3 22.617 7.53909
VARIETY 1 0.405 0.40518
TREATMENT 9 77.466 8.60730 4.02 **
ERROR 63 134.933 2.14180
TOTAL 79 247.128
Table 4.4.1 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Number of Leaves per Plant of
1 16.886 A
2 16.744 A
Table 4.4.2 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Number of Leaves per Plant of
Original Ranked
Order Order
T0 T1
T1 T4
T2 T5
T3 T2
T4 T0
T5 T3
T6 T6
T7 T7
T8 T9
T9 T8
35
Fig 4.4.3 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Number of Leaves per Plant of
19.00
No. of Leaves
18.00
17.00
16.00
15.00
14.00
13.00
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Treatmants
Single Variety
Fig 4.4.4 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Number of Leaves per Plant of
20
No. of Leaves
15
10
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Treatments
Double Variety
36
Analysis of variance of data regarding number of leaves per plant shown in the
table 4.4 which illustrates that number of leaves per plant of different treatments was
significant at alpha level 0.05 which indicates that different treatments have not very
significant difference in number of leaves per plant. Mean values of the comparison of
the two varieties are shown in table 4.4.1 which illustrate that both single and double
varieties have not significant differences in case of number of leaves per plant. Mean for
both single and double varieties for number of leaves per plant were 16.886 and 16.744
respectively.
Comparisons of means for number of leaves per plant are shown in table 4.4.2
which illustrates that T1 (Mulch) have 18.206 numbers of leaves per plant followed by T 4
(Calcium carbide) and T5 (Humic acid) with 17.687, 17.500 number of leaves
respectively. While the T8 had lowest numbers of leaves with 14.792. Fig. 4.4.3 and 4.4.4
shows the graphs for number of leaves per plant for single and double variety
respectively which shows not significant difference between the both varieties in case of
numbers of leaves per plant.
These findings are very similar with the findings of the Olasantan, (1999) showed
that mulch greatly effect on the number of leaves per plants, vine diameter and leaf area
in plants than the other treatments. These results were also similar with the results of
Karaye and Yakubu, (2006) that number of leaves per plant, weed growth and yield
responded significantly to mulching.
37
Table 4.5. Analysis of Variance Table for Leaf Area of Polianthes tuberosa
Square Square
VARIETY 1 11217.2 11217.2
TREATMENT 9 2714.3 301.6 3.92 **
ERROR 63 4846.5 76.9
TOTAL 79 18887.8
Table 4.5.1. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Leaf Area of Polianthes tuberosa
for Variety
2 75.998 A
1 52.315 B
Table 4.5.2. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Leaf Area of Polianthes tuberosa
for Treatment
Original Ranked
Order Order
T0 T1
T1 T2
T2 T0
T3 T3
T4 T4
T5 T8
T6 T5
T7 T9
T8 T6
T9 T7
Fig. 4.5.3. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Leaf Area of Polianthes tuberosa
for Treatment
38
Leaf Area (cm)
80
60
40
20
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Treatments
Single Variety
Fig. 4.5.4. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Leaf Area of Polianthes tuberosa
for Treatment
Leaf Area (cm)
100
80
60
40
20
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Treatments
Double Variety
39
Analysis of variance of data regarding leaf area of Polianthes tuberosa shown in
the table 4.5 which illustrates that leaf areas of different treatments were significant at
alpha level 0.05 which indicates that different treatments have significant differences in
leaf area (cm). Comparison of the mean of both varieties are subjected to Latin Square
Design test which illustrated that double variety have 75.998 cm and single variety have
52.315 cm leaf area.
Comparisons of means of leaf area for different treatments shown in table 4.5.2
which illustrates that T1 (Mulch) had highest leaf area that is 74.350 cm followed by T2
and T0 with leaf area of 72.013 and 70.300 cm. While the T7 (Much + Calcium carbide)
have lowest leaf area than the all other treatments. Fig. 4.5.3 and 4.5.4 shows the graphs
for leaf area for single and double variety respectively which shows significant difference
between the both varieties in case of leaf areas. In single variety the leaf area of T3
(Mulch + Low tunnel) is very less as compared to the double variety that is 41.15 cm and
92.25 cm respectively. But there is no considerable differences in leaf areas of T1
(Mulch).
These findings are very similar with the findings of the Olasantan, (1999) that
mulch greatly effect on the vine diameter and leaf area in plants than the other treatments.
40
Table 5.6. Analysis of Variance Table for Days to Spike Emergence of Polianthes
tuberosa
Square Square
VARIETY 1 27569.8 27569.8
TREATMENT 9 7338.4 815.4 32.93 **
ERROR 63 1559.9 24.8
TOTAL 79 36485.8
Table 5.6.1. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Days to Spike Emergence of

1 73.438 A
2 36.310 B
Table 5.6.2. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Days to Spike Emergence of

Original Ranked
Order Order
T0 T0
T1 T5
T2 T4
T3 T6
T4 T7
T5 T1
T6 T8
T7 T9
T8 T2
T9 T3
Fig. 5.6.3. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Days to Spike Emergence of
41
100
80
Days
60
40
20
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Treatments
Single Variety
Fig. 5.6.4. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Days to Spike Emergence of

50
40
Days
30
20
10
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Treatments
Double Variety
42
Analysis of variance of data regarding days to spike emergence of Polianthes
tuberosa shown in the table 4.6 illustrates that spike emergence of different treatments
were significant at alpha level 0.05 which indicates that different treatments have
significant differences in leaf area (cm2). Comparison of the mean of both varieties are
subjected to Latin Square Design test which illustrated that single variety took 73.438
days and double variety took 36.310 days to spike emergence. There is very considerable
difference between the two varieties in case of number of days to spike emergence.
Comparisons of means of days to leaf emergence of Polianthes tuberosa for
different treatments shown in table 4.6.2 which illustrates that T0 (Control) took 65.101
days while the T3 took 36.026 days for the spike emergence followed by T 2 (Low tunnel)
and T9 (Mulch + Micronutrients) with 41.504 and 52.414 days respectively. Fig 4.6.3 and
4.6.4 are for the comparison of means for the days to spike emergence for single and
double variety respectively.
These results also match with the results of Ramakrishna et al., (2006) that
polyethylene and mulches prevent soil water evaporation retaining soil moisture.
Generally plants grow vigorously, tall and reached early flowering by producing early
spike production.
43
Table 4.7 Analysis of Variance Table for Plant Height of Polianthes tuberosa
Square Square
REPLICATION 3 667.34 222.447
VARIETY 1 169.32 169.323
TREATMENT 9 1128.09 125.343 2.80 **
ERROR 63 2816.39 44.705
TOTAL 79 4818.16
Table 4.7.1 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Plant Height of Polianthes

tuberosa for Variety
1 97.814 A
2 94.904 A
Table 4.7.2 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Plant Height of Polianthes

tuberosa for Treatment
Original Ranked
Order Order
T0 T9
T1 T7
T2 T5
T3 T4
T4 T8
T5 T6
T6 T3
T7 T1
T8 T2
T9 T0
Fig. 4.7.3 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Plant Height of Polianthes tuberosa
for Treatment
44
Plant Height (cm)
110
100
90
80
70
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Treatments
Single Variety
Fig. 4.7.4 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Plant Height of Polianthes tuberosa
for Treatment
Plant Height (cm)
110
100
90
80
70
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
TREATMENTS
Double Variety
45
Analysis of variance of data regarding plant height of Polianthes tuberosa shown
in the table 4.7 illustrates that plant height of different treatments were significant at
alpha level 0.05 which indicates that different treatments have significant differences in
plant height (cm). Comparison of the mean of both varieties are subjected to Latin Square
Design test which illustrated that single variety have mean of 97.814 (cm) and double
variety have mean of 94.904 (cm). There is no considerable difference between the both
varieties in case of plant height.
Comparisons of means of plant height of Polianthes tuberosa for different
treatments shown in table 4.7.2 which illustrates that T9 (Mulch + Micronutrients)
attained height of 102.81 (cm) more as compared to other treatments followed by the T7
(Mulch + Calcium carbide) and T5 (Humic acid) that attained height of 99.83 and 98.50
cm respectively. While the T0 (Control) attained the height of 89.41 cm that is lowest
from all the other treatments. Fig. 4.7.3 and 7.7.4 showed the graphs for treatment means
of single and double variety respectively. There is no considerable difference between the
heights of plant in both varieties and are almost similar to each other.
These observations are similar with the observations of Chaudhry et al., (2004)
that maximum plant height was observed under mulching through mechanical loosning of
indicating that mechanical loosening of soil had some positive impact on plant height
where as non application of mulching material had the minimum plant height.
46
Table 4.8 Analysis of Variance Table for Plant Height When Tunnel Removed
Square Square
VARIETY 1 551.92 551.921
TREATMENT 9 6122.46 680.273 23.69 **
ERROR 63 1808.85 28.712
TOTAL 79 8489.76
Table 4.8.1 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Plant Height When Tunnel
Removed for Variety
2 26.032 A
1 20.779 B
Table 4.8.2 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Plant Height When Tunnel
Removed for Treatment
Original Ranked
Order Order
T0 T3
T1 T2
T2 T1
T3 T6
T4 T5
T5 T4
T6 T0
T7 T9
T8 T7
T9 T8
Fig. 4.8.3 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Plant Height When Tunnel
47
Plant Height (cm)
40
30
20
10
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Treatments
Single Variety
Fig. 4.8.4 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Plant Height When Tunnel
Plant Height (cm)
60
40
20
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Treatments
Double Variety
48
Analysis of variance of data regarding plant height when low tunnel were
removed of Polianthes tuberosa shown in the table 4.8 illustrates that plant height at the
time of low tunnel removal of different treatments were significant at alpha level 0.05
which indicates that different treatments have significant differences in plant height at the
time of tunnel removal (cm). Comparison of the mean of both varieties are subjected to
Latin Square Design test which illustrated that double variety have mean of 26.032 (cm)
and single variety have mean of 20.779 (cm). There is no considerable difference
between the both varieties in case of plant height at the time of tunnel removed. The
plastic tunnels were removed at 28th of April when the outside temperature of the
environment were high as compared to the temperature at the time of sowing date.
Comparisons of means of plant height at the time of tunnel removal of Polianthes
tuberosa for different treatments were arranged in table 4.8.2 which illustrates that T3
(Mulch + Low tunnel) attained the more height as compared to the other treatments that
were 42.504 cm followed by T2 and T1 that attained heights of 36.805 and 25.114 cm
respectively. While the T8 (Mulch + Humic acid) were the lowest with the height of
14.711 cm. there is considerable difference between the T3 (Mulch + Low tunnel) and T8
(Mulch + Humic acid). Fig 4.8.3 and 4.8.4 shows the comparison of means of single and
double varieties respectively.
These observations are similar with the observations of Solaiman et al., (2008)
that healthier vegetative growth observed with the plants under black plastic mulch while
minimum plant height and yield obtained in control.
49
Table 4.9. Analysis of Variance Table for Floret Emergence Date of Polianthes
tuberosa
Square Square
REPLICATION 3 733 244
VARIETY 1 301855 301855
REPLICATI*VARIETY 3 135 45
TREATMENT 9 5049 561 23.37 **
ERROR 63 1512 24
TOTAL 79 309285
Table 7.9.1 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Floret Emergence Date of

1 235.49 A
2 112.63 B
Table 4.9.2 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Floret Emergence Date of

Original Ranked
Order Order
T0 T0
T1 T4
T2 T5
T3 T6
T4 T1
T5 T2
T6 T7
T7 T9
T8 T8
T9 T3
50
Fig. 4.9.3 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Floret Emergence Date of
280
260
days
240
220
200
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Treatments
Singe Variety

140
120
100
Days
80
60
40
20
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Treatments
Double Variety
51
Analysis of variance of data regarding floret emergence date of Polianthes
tuberosa as shown in the table 4.9 illustrates that floret emergence date of different
treatments were significant at alpha level 0.05 which indicates that different treatments
have significant differences in floret emergence date. Comparison of the means of both
varieties of Polianthes tuberosa were shown in table 4.9.1 which illustrated that double
variety took 112.63 days as compared to the single variety that took 235.49 days for the
floret emergence date. There is very prominent difference between the both varieties in
case of the floret emergence date of Polianthes tuberosa.
Comparisons of the means of treatments of both varieties were arranged in table
4.9.2 which illustrated that T3 (Mulch + Low tunnel) took 162.42 days to emerge the
florets followed by T8 (Mulch + Humic acid) and T9 (Mulch + Micronutrients) with
169.05 and 169.72 days respectively. While the T0 (Control) took the highest number of
days to emerge the florets. There is very significant difference between the T3 (Mulch +
Low tunnel) and T0 (Control). Fig. 4.9.3 and 4.9.4 shows the comparison of means
number of days to floret emergence of single and double varieties respectively.
These results also match with the results of Ramakrishna et al., (2006) that
polyethylene and mulches generally grow vigorously, tall and reached early flowering.
These results also favors the findings of Olasantan, (1999) that tunnel and mulch had
great impact in the early season growth and flowering.
52
Table 4.10 Analysis of Variance Table for Number of Florets per Spike of
Polianthes tuberosa
Square Square
VARIETY 1 321.49 321.486
TREATMENT 9 425.93 47.325 3.39 **
ERROR 63 880.08 13.970
TOTAL 79 1781.62
Table 4.10.1 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Number of Florets per Spike of
1 37.578 A
2 33.569 B
Table 4.10.2 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Number of Florets per Spike of
Original Ranked
Order Order
T0 T6
T1 T3
T2 T8
T3 T2
T4 T1
T5 T0
T6 T5
T7 T4
T8 T7
T9 T9

53
50
No. of Florets
40
30
20
10
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Treatments
Single Variety
Fig. 4.10.4 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Number of Florets per Spike of
40
No. of Florets
30
20
10
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Treatments
Double Variety
Analysis of variance of data regarding number of florets per spike of Polianthes

tuberosa as shown in the table 4.10 illustrates that number of florets per spike of plant of
different treatments were significant at alpha level 0.05 which indicates that different
54
treatments have significant differences in number of florets per spike of the plant.
Comparisons of means of both varieties were subjected to Latin Square Design Test in
table 4.10.1 which illustrated that single variety have 37.578 florets per spike while the
double variety have 33.569 florets per spike in comparison to the single variety. There is
significant difference between the numbers of florets per spike of Polianthes tuberosa.
Mean comparisons for the number of florets per spike were subjected to Latin
Square Design Test and arranged in order in table 4.10.2 which showed that T6
(Micronutrients) showed highest numbers of florets per spike with 38.042 followed by T3
(Mulch + low tunnel) and T8 (Mulch + Humic acid) with 37.700 and 37.354 number of
florets respectively. While T9 (Mulch + Micronutrients) showed 31.042 florets per spike
of Polianthes tuberosa. Fig.4.10.3 and 4.10.4 showed the comparison means of numbers
of florets per spike of single and double variety of Polianthes tuberosa respectively. It
showed that in single variety there were 42.56579 numbers of florets per spike while
double variety there were 32.833 numbers of florets per spike. It clearly showed the
difference between the single and double variety of tuberose in term of number of florets
per spike of the plants.
These results also favors the findings of Kumar and Arora (2000) that
micronutrients revealed earliness in flowering, increases the number of leaves and
number of florets, weight of spike and size of florets.
55
Table 4.11 Analysis of Variance Table for Spike Length of Polianthes tuberosa
Square Square
VARIETY 1 3.99 3.985
TREATMENT 9 1750.43 194.492 17.98 **
ERROR 63 681.49 10.817
TOTAL 79 2473.82
Table 4.11.1 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Spike Length of Polianthes

2 41.970 A
1 41.524 A
Table 4.11.2 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Spike Length of Polianthes

Original Ranked
Order Order
T0 T8
T1 T7
T2 T9
T3 T3
T4 T4
T5 T6
T6 T0
T7 T5
T8 T1
T9 T2
Fig. 4.11.3 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Spike Length of Polianthes
56
Spike Length (cm)
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Treatments
Single Variety
Fig. 4.11.4 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Spike Length of Polianthes

Spike Length (cm)
80
60
40
20
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Treatments
Double Variety
57
Analysis of variance of data regarding length of spike of Polianthes tuberosa as
shown in the table 4.11 illustrates that length of florets per spike of plant of different
treatments were significant at alpha level 0.05 which indicates that different treatments
have significant differences in spike length of the plant. Comparisons of means of both
varieties were subjected to Latin Square Design Test in table 4.11.1 which illustrated that
double variety have more spike length that were 41.970 cm as compared to the double
variety with 41.524 cm. there is no considerable difference between the both varieties in
case of spike length of a plant.
Mean comparisons for the spike length were subjected to Latin Square Design
Test and arranged in order in table 4.11.2 which illustrated that T8 (Mulch + Humic acid)
attained highest length that were 54.106 cm per spike followed by T7 and T9 with 45.581
and 42.700 cm respectively. While the T2 (Low Tunnel) and T1 (Mulch) attained less
heights with 37.393 and 37.993 cm respectively. There is considerable difference
between T8 (Mulch + Humic acid) and T2 (Low Tunnel). Fig. 4.11.3 and 4.11.4 showed
the comparisons of means of treatments for both single and double variety respectively.
These results also favors the findings of Wu et al. (2006) that In “ Bluecrop”,
plant height and width, spike length, dry weight of 100 leaves and dry weight of roots
were increased by the use of different mulching material. But these results are opposite
with the findings of Abdel et al. (2007) that humic acid along with doses of NPK reduces
the spike length and number of branches per plant.
58
Table 4.12. Analysis of Variance Table for Spike Thickness of Polianthes tuberosa
Square Square
REPLICATION 3 0.9552 0.31838
VARIETY 1 0.5155 0.51553
TREATMENT 9 8.8482 0.98313 2.89 **
ERROR 63 21.4023 0.33972
TOTAL 79 31.9768
Table 4.12.1 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Spike Thickness of Polianthes

2 5.5543 A
1 5.3937 A
Table 4.12.2 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Spike Thickness of Polianthes

Original Ranked
Order Order
T0 T6
T1 T7
T2 T9
T3 T8
T4 T5
T5 T0
T6 T3
T7 T4
T8 T1
T9 T2
Fig. 4.12.3 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Spike Thickness of Polianthes
59
Spike Thickness (mm)
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Treatments
Single Variety
Fig. 4.12.4 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Spike Thickness of Polianthes

Spike Thickness (mm)
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Treatments
Double Variety
60
Analysis of variance of data regarding thickness of spike of Polianthes tuberosa
as shown in the table 4.12 illustrates that thickness of florets per spike of plant of
different treatments were significant at alpha level 0.05 which indicates that different
treatments have significant differences in spike thickness of the plant. Comparisons of
means of both varieties were subjected to Latin Square Design Test in table 4.12.1 which
illustrated that double variety attained more spike thickness (5.5543 mm) as compared to
the single variety (5.3937 mm). There is little difference in spike thickness between the
single variety and double variety.
Mean comparisons for the spike thickness were subjected to Latin Square Design
Test and arranged in order in table 4.12.2 which illustrated that T6 (Micronutrients) were
6.1438 mm followed by T7 (Mulch + Calcium carbide) and T9 (Mulch + Micro nutrients)
with 5.8550 and 5.7225 mm in thickness respectively. While T2 (Low tunnel) and T1
(Mulch) attained less thickness with 5.1380 and 5.1386 mm thick respectively. There is
very little difference between the T6 (Micronutrients) and T2 (Low tunnel) in case of
thickness. Fig 4.12.3 and 4.13.4 showed the graphs for treatments of single and double
variety respectively.
These results also favors the findings of Kumar and Arora (2000) that
micronutrients revealed earliness in flowering, increases the number of leaves and
number of florets, weight of spike by thickening the spike, increases plant height and size
of florets.
61
Table 4.13. Analysis of Variance Table for Floret Diameter of Polianthes tuberosa
Square Square
VARIETY 1 106.54 106.540
TREATMENT 9 678.82 75.425 17.00 **
ERROR 63 279.48 4.436
TOTAL 79 1070.54
Table 4.13.1 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Floret Diameter of Polianthes

1 34.766 A
2 32.458 B
Table 4.13.2 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Floret Diameter of Polianthes

Original Ranked
Order Order
T0 T6
T1 T9
T2 T0
T3 T2
T4 T1
T5 T4
T6 T3
T7 T5
T8 T8
T9 T7
Fig. 4.13.3 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Floret Diameter of Polianthes
62
Floret Diameter (mm)
50
40
30
20
10
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Treatments
Single Variety
Fig. 4.13.4 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Floret Diameter of Polianthes

Floret Diameter (mm)
50
40
30
20
10
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Treatments
Double Variety
63
Analysis of variance of data regarding floret diameter of Polianthes tuberosa as
shown in the table 4.13 illustrated that floret diameter of plant of different treatments
significant differences in floret diameter of the plants. Data of the mean comparisons of
both varieties were procured and arranged in table 4.13.1 which showed that single
variety have more floret diameter with 34.766 mm as compared to the 32.458 mm of
double variety. There is little difference between two varieties in term of floret diameter
Data regarding to the mean comparisons of treatments were arranged in table
4.13.3 which showed that T6 (Micronutrients) took highest floret diameter with 40.277
mm followed by T9 (Mulch + Micronutrients) and T0 (Control) with diameter of 36.837
and 34.681 mm respectively. But T7 (Mulch + Calcium carbide) and T8 (Mulch + Humic
acid) took the lowest floret diameter with 30.285 and 30.385 mm respectively. Fig. 4.13.3
and 4.13.4 illustrated the graphical representation of means comparisons of treatments for
single and double variety respectively. There is no very considerable difference among
the treatment of both varieties.
These observations are similar with the results of Kumar and Arora (2000)
that micronutrients increases the number of leaves and number of florets, weight of spike
by thickening the spike, increases plant height and size of florets by increasing the floret
diameter of the plants.
64
Table 4.14 Analysis of Variance Table for Color of Florets of Polianthes tuberosa
Square Square
REPLICATION 3 1.904E-29 6.347E-30
VARIETY 1 567.113 567.113
REPLICATI*VARIETY 3 4.995E-30 1.665E-30
TREATMENT 9 31.6125 3.51250 19.22 **
ERROR 63 11.5125 0.18274
TOTAL 79 610.238
Table 4.14.1 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Color of Florets of Polianthes

1 8.6500 A
2 3.3250 B
Table 4.14.2 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Color of Florets of Polianthes

Original Ranked
Order Order
T0 T3
T1 T1
T2 T9
T3 T2
T4 T6
T5 T7
T6 T4
T7 T8
T8 T0
T9 T5
Fig. 4.14.3 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Color of Florets of Polianthes
65
12
10
Color 8
6
4
2
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Treatments
Single Variety
Fig. 4.14.4 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Color of Florets of Polianthes

5
4
Color
3
2
1
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Treatments
Double Variety
66
Analysis of variance of data regarding color of florets of Polianthes tuberosa as
shown in the table 4.14 illustrated that color of the floret of plant of different treatments
significant differences in color of florets of the plants. Data of the mean comparisons of
both varieties were arranged in table 4.14.1 which showed that single variety have more
attractive and shinning creamy whitish floret color as compared to the of double variety
with less shinning florets color. According to the judges single variety got 8.6500 marks
in comparison to the double variety which got 3.3250 marks of floret color. There is very
clear difference between the two varieties in case of floret color parameter.
Data regarding to the mean comparisons of treatments about the floret color were
arranged in table 4.15.2 which showed that T3 (Mulch + Low tunnel) took 7.0000 marks
of floret color followed by T1 (Mulch) and T9 (Mulch + Micronutrients) with 6.8750 and
6.3750 marks respectively. But T5 (Humic acid) took 5.0000 marks from the judges with
lowest marks followed by T0 (Control) with 5.2500 marks. There is considerable
difference between T3 (Mulch + Low tunnel) and T5 (Humic acid) in case of marks of
floret color. Fig. 4.15.3 and 4.15.4 showed the comparisons of the means of treatment for
single and double variety respectively. These graphs clearly showed that there is clear
difference in each treatment of both varieties where single variety got more marks as
compared to the double variety.
These results are similar with the findings of Rodrigues et al. (1999) that
significant differences in flower production and quality, using the mulched system as
compared to the other treatments.
67
Table 4.15 Analysis of Variance Table for Fragrance of Polianthes tuberosa
Square Square
REPLICATION 3 9.316E-29 3.105E-29
VARIETY 1 567.113 567.113
REPLICATI*VARIETY 3 2.217E-29 7.389E-30
TREATMENT 9 31.6125 3.51250 19.22 **
ERROR 63 11.5125 0.18274
TOTAL 79 610.238
Table 4.15.1 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Fragrance of Polianthes

1 8.6500 A
2 3.3250 B
Table 4.15.2 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Fragrance of Polianthes

Original Ranked
Order Order
T0 T3
T1 T1
T2 T9
T3 T2
T4 T6
T5 T7
T6 T4
T7 T8
T8 T0
T9 T5
Fig. 4.15.3 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Fragrance of Polianthes tuberosa
for Treatment
68
12
Fragrance
10
8
6
4
2
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Treatments
Single Variety
Fig. 4.15.4 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Fragrance of Polianthes tuberosa

for Treatment
5
Fragrance
4
3
2
1
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Treatments
Double Variety
69
Analysis of variance of data regarding fragrance of florets of Polianthes tuberosa
as shown in the table 4.15 illustrated that fragrance of the floret of plant of different
treatments were significant at alpha level 0.05 which indicated that different treatments
have significant differences in fragrance of florets of the plants. Data of the mean
comparisons of both varieties were arranged in table 4.15.1 which showed that single
variety have more fragrant as compared to the of double variety with less fragrant.
According to the judges single variety got 8.6500 marks in comparison to the double
variety which got 3.3250 marks of fragrance of the florets. There is very clear difference
between the two varieties in case of fragrance of the floret parameter.
Data regarding to the mean comparisons of treatments about the fragrance were
arranged in table 4.15.2 which showed that T3 (Mulch + Low tunnel) took 7.0000 marks
of fragrance followed by T1 (Mulch) and T9 (Mulch + Micronutrients) with 6.8750 and
lowest marks followed by T0 (Control) with 5.2500 marks. There is considerable
difference between T3 (Mulch + Low tunnel) and T5 (Humic acid) in case of marks of the
fragrant florets. Fig. 4.15.3 and 4.15.4 showed the comparisons of the means of treatment
for single and double variety respectively. These graphs clearly showed that there is clear
difference in each treatment of both varieties where single variety got more marks as
compared to the double variety.
More fragrance that found in the single variety and less found in double variety
was due to the genetic bases of the both varieties.
70
Table 4.16 Analysis of Variance Table for Earliness of Polianthes tuberosa
Square Square
VARIETY 1 12168.1 12168.1
TREATMENT 9 30916.1 3435.1 32.97 **
ERROR 63 6564.1 104.2
TOTAL 79 49691.9
Table 4.16.1 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Earliness of Polianthes tuberosa

for Variety
1 36.796 A
2 16.690 B
Table 4.16.2 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Earliness of Polianthes tuberosa

for Treatment
Original Ranked
Order Order
T0 T3
T1 T2
T2 T6
T3 T9
T4 T1
T5 T6
T6 T8
T7 T4
T8 T5
T9 T0
Fig. 4.16.3 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Earliness of Polianthes tuberosa
for Treatment
71
50
40
Days 30
20
10
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Treatments
Single Variety
Fig. 4.16.4 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Earliness of Polianthes tuberosa

for Treatment
20
15
Days
10
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Treatments
Double Variety
72
Analysis of variance of data regarding earliness of Polianthes tuberosa as shown
in the table 4.16 illustrated that earliness of plants of different treatments were significant
at alpha level 0.05 which indicated that different treatments have significant differences
in earliness of the plants. Data of the mean comparisons of both varieties were arranged
in table 4.16.1 which showed that single variety created more earliness as compared to
the of double variety. Single variety created earliness 36.796 days as compared to the
double variety that created 16.690 days of earliness. It means that single variety created
20.106 days of earliness than the double variety.
Data regarding to the comparison of means of treatments were shown in table
4.16.2 which showed that T3 (Mulch + Low tunnel) created more earliness of 41.100 days
followed by T2 (Low tunnel) and T9 (Mulch + Micronutrients) with 36.277 and 30.612
days respectively. While the T5 (Humic acid) and T4 (Calcium carbide) showed lowest
earliness of 12.505 and 18.836 days respectively. Fig. 4.16.3 and 4.16.4 showed the
comparison of means of single and double variety respectively.
These results are also similar with the findings of Olasantan, (1999) that tunnel
and mulch had great impact in the early season growth and flowering that ultimately
reduces the days to spout and as a result early flowering occurred..
73
CHAPTER 5
SUMMARY
Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan to investigate the effects of
different techniques on extending the growth period and flowering quality of tuberose
(Polianthes tuberosa L.). There were two cultivars of tuberose Single Mexican (V1) and
the Double Pearl (V2). The experiment was consisting of ten treatments and each
treatment was replicated four times. Humid acid was applied @ 8 % per plant. Paint
coated calcium carbide was applied @ 200 mg per plant and micronutrients was applied
by foliar application @ 5-6 ml per 100 ml. Experiment was laid out according to
Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD). Data regarding growth, flower and quality
There were ten treatments in the experiment and each treatment was replicated four
times. These treatments included T0 (Control), T1 (Mulch), T2 (Low tunnel), T3 (Mulch +
low tunnel), T4 (Calcium carbide), T5 (Humic acid), T6 (Micronutrients), T7 (Mulch +
Calcium carbide), T8 (Mulch + Humic acid) and T9 (Mulch + Micronutrients). Data were
recorded on the different parameters like Sprouting date, Sprouting percentage, Days to
leave emergence, Number of leaves per plant, Leaf area (cm), Days to spike emergence,
Plant height (cm), Plant height at the time of tunnel removal, Florets emergence date
(Days), Number of florets per spike, Length of spike (cm), Thickness of spike (mm),
Floret diameter (mm), Color of florets, Fragrance of florets, Earliness (Days).
Observation recorded on sprouting date showed that T3 took fewer days (25.883) to
sprout while the T2 (Low tunnel) were at 2nd position with 31.567 days. All treatments
were sprouted earlier than the T0 (Control) that was sprouted after 55.277 days.
Results showed that the sprouting percentage of double variety were better than the single
variety and among the treatments low tunnel and mulch + low tunnel showed 100 %
results in both varieties but mulch + Calcium carbide, mulch + humic acid and mulch +
74
micronutrients in double variety showed 97.5 % sprouting percentage but T0 were last
with 0 % and 12.5 % sprouting percentage of single and double variety respectively.
In case of parameter days to leave emergence T3 (Mulch + low tunnel) was at the top with
36.125 days and T2 (Low tunnel) was 2nd with 44.3875 days to leave emergence. T0
(Control) was last with 55.888 days. Double variety performed better than single variety
with 25.361 days while single variety took 64.795 days to leave emergence.
Data regarding to number of leaves per plant showed that both single and double varieties
were equal in number of leaves per plant with 16.886 and 16.744 respectively. But the T1
(Mulch) have 18.206 numbers of leaves per plant followed by T4 (Calcium carbide)
17.687. T8 (Mulch + humic acid) had lowest numbers of leaves with 14.792.
Observations about leaf area illustrated that double variety have 75.998 cm and single
variety have 52.315 cm leaf area. T1 (Mulch) had highest leaf area that is 74.350 cm
followed by T2 (Low tunnel) with 72.013 cm. While the T7 (Much + Calcium carbide)
have lowest leaf area than the all other treatments.
Parameter days to spike emergence showed similar results as the findings of days to leave
emergence. But T3 (Mulch + low tunnel) was at the top with 36.026 days and T2 (Low
tunnel) was 2nd with 41.504 days to leave emergence. T0 (Control) was last with
65.101days. Double variety took 36.310 days for spike emergence and single variety took
73.438 days for spike emergence.
Data about plant height illustrated that single variety have mean of 97.814 cm and double
variety have mean of 94.904 cm plant height. T9 (Mulch + Micronutrients) attained height
of 102.81 cm more as compared to other treatments followed by the T 7 (Mulch +
Calcium carbide) with 99.83 cm. While the T0 (Control) attained the height of 89.41 cm
that is lowest from all the other treatments
Observations about plant height at the time of tunnel removal illustrated that double
variety have mean of 26.032 (cm) and single variety have mean of 20.779 (cm). In case
of treatments, T3 (Mulch + Low tunnel) attained the more height that were 42.504 cm as
compared to the other treatments followed by T2 (Low tunnel) and T1 (Mulch) that
attained heights of 36.805 and 25.114 cm respectively. While the T8 (Mulch + Humic
acid) were the lowest with the height of 14.711 cm.
75
Results about floret emergence date illustrated that double variety took 112.63 days as
compared to the single variety that took 235.49 days for the floret emergence date. T3
(Mulch + Low tunnel) took 162.42 days to emerge the florets followed by T8 (Mulch +
Humic acid) and T9 (Mulch + Micronutrients) with 169.05 and 169.72 days respectively.
While the T0 (Control) took the highest number of days to emerge the florets.
Results about numbers of florets per spike illustrated that single variety have 37.578
florets per spike while the double variety have 33.569 florets per spike in comparison to
the single variety. But in T6 (Micronutrients) showed highest numbers of florets per spike
with 38.042 followed by T3 (Mulch + low tunnel) and T8 (Mulch + Humic acid) with
37.700 and 37.354 number of florets per spike. While T9 (Mulch + Micronutrients)
showed 31.042 florets per spike of Polianthes tuberosa.
Data about spike length illustrated that double variety have more spike length that were
41.970 cm as compared to the double variety with 41.524 cm. But the results about
treatments showed that T8 (Mulch + Humic acid) attained highest length that were 54.106
cm per spike followed by T7 and T9 with 45.581 and 42.700 cm respectively. While the T2
(Low Tunnel) and T1 (Mulch) attained less heights with 37.393 and 37.993 cm
respectively.
Observations about thickness of spike of Polianthes tuberosa illustrated that double
variety attained more spike thickness (5.5543 mm) as compared to the single variety
(5.3937 mm). In case of treatments T6 (Micronutrients) were 6.1438 mm followed by T7
(Mulch + Calcium carbide) and T9 (Mulch + Micro nutrients) with 5.8550 and 5.7225 mm
in thickness respectively. While T2 (Low tunnel) and T1 (Mulch) attained less thickness
with 5.1380 and 5.1386 mm thick respectively.
Finding about floret diameter showed that single variety have more floret diameter with
34.766 mm as compared to the 32.458 mm of double variety. In case of treatments results
showed that T6 (Micronutrients) took highest floret diameter with 40.277 mm followed by
T9 (Mulch + Micronutrients) and T0 (Control) with diameter of 36.837 and 34.681 mm
respectively. But T7 (Mulch + Calcium carbide) and T8 (Mulch + Humic acid) took the
lowest floret diameter with 30.285 and 30.385 mm respectively.
Observations regarding to the color of florets showed that single variety have more
attractive and shinning creamy whitish floret color as compared to the double variety
76
with less shinning florets color. According to the judges single variety got 8.6500 marks
in comparison to the double variety which got 3.3250 marks of floret color. But the
treatments T3 (Mulch + Low tunnel) took 7.0000 marks of floret color followed by T1
(Mulch) and T9 (Mulch + Micronutrients) with 6.8750 and 6.3750 marks respectively. But
T5 (Humic acid) took 5.0000 marks from the judges with lowest marks followed by T 0
(Control) with 5.2500 marks.
Observations about fragrance showed that T3 (Mulch + Low tunnel) took 7.0000 marks of
fragrance followed by T1 (Mulch) and T9 (Mulch + Micronutrients) with 6.8750 and
lowest marks followed by T0 (Control) with 5.2500 marks. In case of variety showed that
single variety have more fragrant as compared to the double variety with less fragrant.
According to the judges single variety got 8.6500 marks in comparison to the double
variety which got 3.3250 marks of fragrance of the florets.
Findings about the earliness showed that single variety created more earliness as
compared to the double variety. Single variety created earliness 36.796 days as compared
to the double variety that created 16.690 days of earliness. It means that single variety
created 20.106 days of earliness than the double variety. In case of treatments, T3 (Mulch
+ Low tunnel) created more earliness of 41.100 days followed by T2 (Low tunnel) and T9
(Mulch + Micronutrients) with 36.277 and 30.612 days respectively. While the T5
(Humic acid) and T4 (Calcium carbide) showed lowest earliness of 12.505 and 18.836
days respectively.
77
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85

Commercial Floriculture in Pakistan: Tuberose Production Under Tunnel Technology

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Commercial Floriculture in Pakistan: Tuberose Production Under Tunnel Technology

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CHAPTER 1

Tuberose (Polianthus tuberosa L.) member of Amaryllidaceae family, native of Mexico,

Olasantan, (1999) conducted an experiment to observe the influence of mulching on the

Singh and Bhattacharjee, (1999) studied the concentrations of nutrients in tissue

Saleem et al. (2002) conducted a field experiment to evaluate influence of encapsulated

Velinden, (2003) observed changes in the nutritional status of corollas during

Chaudhry et al. (2004) evaluated the efficiency of different mulching materials on

De et al, (2005) conducted an experiment to study the efficacy of some mulching

Henschke and Jerzy, (2006) conducted an experiment on height of shrubs, length of

Szewezuk and Gudarowska, (2006) conducted an experiment to check the influence of

Baloach et al. (2008) tested a commercial foliar fertilizer, HiGrow which is a

MATERIALS AND METHODS

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Table 4.1.1. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Sprouting Date of Polianthes

Table 4.1.2. LSD all-pairwise comparisons test of sprouting date of Polianthes

Fig. 4.1.4. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Sprouting Date of Polianthes

Table 4.2.1. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Sprouting Percentage of

Table 4.2.2. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Sprouting Percentage of

Fig. 4.2.4. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Sprouting Percentage of

Table 4.3.1 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Days to Leave Emergence of

Table 4.3.2 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Days to Leave Emergence of

Fig. 4.3.4 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Days to Leave Emergence of

Table 5.6.1. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Days to Spike Emergence of

Table 5.6.2. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Days to Spike Emergence of

Fig. 5.6.4. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Days to Spike Emergence of

Table 4.7.1 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Plant Height of Polianthes

Table 4.7.2 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Plant Height of Polianthes

Table 7.9.1 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Floret Emergence Date of

Table 4.9.2 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Floret Emergence Date of

Fig. 4.9.4 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Floret Emergence Date of

Fig. 4.10.3 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Floret Emergence Date of

Analysis of variance of data regarding number of florets per spike of Polianthes

Table 4.11.1 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Spike Length of Polianthes

Table 4.11.2 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Spike Length of Polianthes

Fig. 4.11.4 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Spike Length of Polianthes

Table 4.12.1 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Spike Thickness of Polianthes

Table 4.12.2 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Spike Thickness of Polianthes

Fig. 4.12.4 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Spike Thickness of Polianthes

Table 4.13.1 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Floret Diameter of Polianthes

Table 4.13.2 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Floret Diameter of Polianthes

Fig. 4.13.4 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Floret Diameter of Polianthes

Table 4.14.1 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Color of Florets of Polianthes

Table 4.14.2 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Color of Florets of Polianthes

Fig. 4.14.4 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Color of Florets of Polianthes

Table 4.15.1 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Fragrance of Polianthes

Table 4.15.2 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Fragrance of Polianthes

Fig. 4.15.4 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Fragrance of Polianthes tuberosa

Table 4.16.1 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Earliness of Polianthes tuberosa

Table 4.16.2 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Earliness of Polianthes tuberosa

Fig. 4.16.4 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Earliness of Polianthes tuberosa

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