Assessment of cultivars of China aster (Callistephus chinensis L.) Nees) in Kerala's Northern laterite region

Abstract

The trial was conducted at ARS Anakkayam, Kerala Agricultural University, to assess the performance of seven cultivars of China aster under Northern laterites region of Kerala. The outcomes presented high dissimilarity in the performance of all seven cultivars for growth and flowering characteristics. Maximum plant height (69.93 cm) in addition to the highest number of leaves per plant was noted in Arka Shashank while Arka Archana recorded the highest width of disc florets, leaf length as well as maximum yield per plant. On the other hand, Arka Archana and Arka Aadya were early to flower (76 days). Arka Aadya recorded the highest number of primary branches as well as the highest vase life (24.47 days). The minimum value for the number of primary branches, number of flowers per plant, and flower diameter of disc florets was observed in Arka Poornima while the same variety recorded the highest flower diameter of ray florets as well as days required for first flowering. Individual flower weight (1.46 g) was recorded highest by Arka Shubhi (1.46 grams) followed by Arka Poornima (1.45 g).