Response of herbal kunapajala on vegetative, flowering and corm attributes of gladiolus cv. Jessica

Abstract

Intensive farming in India has led to the deterioration of soil and ecology. Flower crops, with their high nutrient demands, are especially vulnerable to intensive farming methods. However, for sustainable alternatives has spurred a shift to organic practices, including the use of nettle grass and neem-based Kunapajala. To explore the efficacy of Kunapajala, an experiment was carried out to evaluate the response herbal kunapajala, on vegetative, flowering and corm attributes of Gladiolus cv. Jessica at Model Floriculture Centre, GBPUA&T, Pantnagar during 2019-20 and 2020-21. Thirteen treatments, including three Kunapajala compositions, were compared to a control (conventional fertilizers). Based on the results, 10% of KJ2 (nettle grass + seasonal weed-based KJ) at a dose of 150 mL/m2 significantly improved flower yield, spike quality, and corm attributes. These results highlight the potential of ancient organic farming practices to enhance crop health and productivity, reducing reliance on chemical chemicals for sustainable agriculture in India.