Farmer scripts success in ornamental floriculture

When Yellow Leaf Disease affected arecanut plantations and growers started losing hope in the cultivation of arecanut in Malnad region, a farmer has proved that ornamental floriculture in arecanut plantation can fetch good income.

Bharath Kumar, son of Keremane Bhaskar Rao, has grown Ginger Torch and Heliconia—ornamental flowers and has proved that farmers can achieve success through floriculture.

Flowers in demand

Ginger Torch is mostly grown in Jawa and Sumatra. Apart from being a ornamental flower, it is also used in cooking in Thailand. “If taken good care, each plant will bear 80 flowers annually. The flower remains fresh in the plant for 25 days and a cut flower lasts for three days. Barring June, July and August, the plant bears flowers throughout the year. It is available in orange, red and pink colours and there is demand for the flowers in cities. Shade and water in arecanut plantation and humid weather suits the plant’s cultivation,” Kumar said.

Heliconia originated in South America. It is available throughout the year and is available in more than 10 colours. “The plant can be grown in shade in arecanut plantation to get regular income,” he added.

In the last three years, Kumar has grown Ginger torch and Heliconia, on one acre of land. Ginger torch is sold for Rs 30 per flower and heliconia for Rs seven per flower. The flowers are also sent to Bengaluru and Mangaluru as well, he added.

Heliconia is in great demand flower in cut flower industry. Heliconias come in different colours are mainly used in stage decorations, Kumar said.