Effect of silicic acid application on growth, flower yield and quality of gerbera cultivars under protected condition

Abstract

A study on performance of gerbera cultivars for different levels of silicic acid application was carried out under protected condition. The results revealed that among all seven cultivars, ‘Marinilla’ recorded with higher number of flowers (15.11) and lower number of flowers observed with cultivar ‘Vilassar’ (13.11). Cultivars ‘Vilassar’ and ‘Amelie’ recorded with higher flower diameter (11.88 mm) than ‘Natasha’ (10.47 mm). Stalk length was recorded higher with cultivar ‘Marinilla’ (70.16 cm) and lower stalk length was observed in cultivar ‘Nijela’ (64.16 cm) after fourth spray. Flowers of cultivars ‘Vilassar’ and ‘Amlet’ was recorded with higher vase life (13.88 days) compared to other cultivars. Silicic acid spray showed better results with respect to number of flowers, flower diameter, stalk length and vase life of flower. Foliar spray of silicic acid 2 ml/L of water was recorded with higher vase life of flower (14.33 days). Treatment without silicic acid (0 ml/L) recorded with lower vase life (12.76 days).