PERFORMANCE OF DIFFERENT BIO-STIMULANTS ON VEGETATIVE, FLORAL, TUBER YIELD AND PROLONGING VASE LIFE QUALITY PARAMETERS OF DAHLIA (DAHLIA VARIABILIS L.)

The present investigation was conducted to determine the effects of different bio-stimulants on vegetative growth parameters, floral and tuber yield parameters, and different holding solutions on vase life of Dahlia. Seaweed extract, Humic acid and Panchgavya were sprayed on plants four times at 15 days, 30 days, 45 days and 60 days, respectively with different concentrations. The harvested flowers were subjected to treat with Sucrose alone and in combination with Salicylic acid (SA), and Ascorbic acid as vase solutions for assessment of vase life of cut flowers. Results indicated that treatment T9 (75% recommended dose of 50% RDF+ 5% seaweed extract + 3% Humic Acid + 3% Panchgavya foliar spray) was the most effective in improving Dahlia growth and flower yield, while treatment T4 (75% RDF + 3% Humic acid foliar spray) was the most effective in improving tuber yield and quality. However, the vase life analysis revealed that salicylic acid 1.0 mM + 4% sucrose treatment showed the best effect on the viz., maximum fresh weight, total solution uptake and vase life of the dahlia cut flowers.