This book is designed as a foundational guide for students, educators, hobbyists, and anyone interested in the fascinating world of floral cultivation. It aims to provide a comprehensive yet accessible introduction to the essential principles, practices, and prospects in Floriculture. Beginning with the history and scope of the discipline, this book covers key topics, such as plant propagation, greenhouse management, soil and nutrient requirements, pest and disease control, and the cultivation of popular ornamental crops. Additionally, it delves into commercial aspects, such as f lower marketing, design, and post-harvest management, offering a well rounded understanding of both traditional and modern approaches in the field. The objective of this work is not only to impart technical knowledge but also to inspire a deeper appreciation for the diversity and importance of ornamental plants in our lives. In an age where sustainability, biodiversity, and green spaces are increasingly valued, floriculture presents unique opportunities for innovation, conservation, and personal fulfillment. I hope this book serves as a valuable starting point for further exploration and engagement with Floriculture, whether in academic study, professional practice, or personal knowledge.
Dr. Rajesh K. Pandey is currently serving as a Professor and Head, Division of Floriculture & Landscaping at Sher-e Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu (SKUAST-Jammu). He earned his Master’s degree (1996) and Doctorate (2001) in Horticulture (Floriculture) from B.R. Ambedkar University, Agra. Dr. Pandey joined SKUAST-Jammu as an Assistant Professor (Floriculture) in 2001 and was promoted to Associate Professor in 2007 and as a Professor in 2013. With over 25 years of experience in teaching, research, and extension, he has made significant contributions to the development and promotion of floriculture in the Jammu region. His research primarily focuses on the production and improvement of flower crops. Dr. Pandey has recommended improved varieties of gladiolus, marigold, chrysanthemum, and tuberose for the Jammu region. Furthermore, 15 of his developed technologies on flower production have been incorporated into the “Package of Practices for Floriculture”, providing practical guidelines for growers in the region. He has guided eight Master’s and two Doctoral students, and his academic contributions include 40 research papers published in reputed national and international journals, several book chapters, 3 review articles, 10 technical bulletins, 15 extension folders, popular articles, and 2 practical manuals. Additionally, he holds 2 patents to his credit. As a Principal Investigator, Dr. Pandey has successfully completed three externally funded projects supported by HTMM (ICAR), NHB, and NABARD. Presently, he is leading as a Coordinator of the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) Project on Floriculture, funded by the Government of Jammu & Kashmir. Dr. Pandey is a lifetime member of several national and international scientific societies and continues to contribute significantly to the advancement of floriculture through research, technology development, and extension services.
Dr. Ali Haidar Shah is currently working as a SRF in Division of Floriculture & Landscaping, Sher-e- Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu. He obtained his Master’s degree from SKUAST Jammu in 2020 and Ph.D. from Dr. Yspuhf Nauni, Solan, H.P. in 2024. He has published 20 research/review papers in the journals of national and international repute, 5 book chapters, 2 patents, 20 newspaper articles. He is lifetime member of national and international Scientific/Non government/Agricultural Welfare Societies.
Dr. Rakesh Kumar is working as an Associate Professor (Floriculture & Landscaping) in Division of Floriculture & Landscaping at Faculty of Horticulture & Forestry at Sher-e Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Chatha, Jammu in June, 2024. Before joining this University, he worked as an Assistant Professor in Department of Floriculture and Landscaping, College of Horticulture, Banda University of Agriculture & Technology, Banda, Uttar Pradesh for about 10 years. He obtained his graduation degree from Dr. Y. S. Parmar, UHF, Nauni, Solan (H.P.) in 2005. He completed his post-graduation in Floriculture and Landscaping through ICAR-JRF from Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab in 2007. He completed his Ph.D. degree in Horticulture (Floriculture and Landscaping) through ICAR-SRF from G.B. Pant University of Agriculture & Technology, Pantnagar, U.S. Nagar, Uttarakhand in 2011. As a Co-PI, he was associated with several projects, namely AICRP MAP & Betelvine (Volunteer Centre) project from ICAR- DMAPR, Gujarat; Establishment of Hi-Tech Nursery for Promoting Horticultural and forestry plants in Bundelkhand Region of Uttar Pradesh funded from RKVY and “Development of Botanical Garden” for ex-situ conservation of indigenous, rare, endangered and threatened (RET) plants funded by Banda University of Agriculture & Technology, Banda. He is actively engaged in teaching, research and extension in the field of Floriculture and Landscaping for more than 10 years. He has guided 06 post-graduate students and published 37 research papers, 29 popular articles, 03 books, 10 book chapters and 6 practical manuals 2 patents.
1. Introduction to Floriculture .....................................................................1
2. Scope and Importance of Commercial Floriculture in India ...................5
3. Anatomy of Flowering Plants ...............................................................19
4. Cacti and Succulents .............................................................................35
5. Ferns, Palms and Foliage Plants ............................................................45
6. Greenhouse Plant ..................................................................................65
7. Classification of Flowers and Ornamental Plants (Annuals, Perennials, Biennials, Herbaceous and Grasses) ...................................93
8. Design and Establishment of Gardens (Hedges, Edges, Borders, Flower Bed, Fence, Garden Walls, Carpet Beds and Bridges) ............107
9. Shade Gardens .....................................................................................121
10. Garden Components ............................................................................125
11. Garden Adornments ............................................................................139
12. Lawns ..................................................................................................143
13. Flower Management ............................................................................149
14. Bonsai: The Art of Creation, Culture, and Care ..................................159
15. Diseases and Pests of Ornamental Plants ............................................181
16. Soil-borne Pathogens in Floriculture Crops ........................................185
17. Weed Management in Floricultural Crops ..........................................191
18. Production Technology of Commercial Flowers.................................195
19. Weed Management in Flowers and Ornamental Crops: Harmful and Beneficial Effects, Classification, Propagation and Dissemination ....253
20. Flower Management ............................................................................269
References ...........................................................................................273
