Impact of Benzyl Adenine Application on Early and Uniform Flowering in Orchids

Abstract

Orchid cultivation is a high-value horticultural enterprise in the southern states of India; however, irregular flowering often limits profitability. A Front Line Demonstration (FLD) was conducted by Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Kottayam, Kerala, at Karukachal during 2023–24 and 2024–25 to assess the effectiveness of benzyl adenine (BA, 100 ppm) in inducing early flowering in Dendrobium orchids and to evaluate its adoption by farmers. The demonstration was carried out in farmers’ fields by comparing BA-treated plants with traditional practices. Results indicated a marked improvement in flowering percentage, with demonstration plots recording 82.00% flowering compared with 36.00% under farmers’ practice in 2023–24. Improved qualitative traits were also observed, including early spike initiation, uniform flowering, an increased number of flowering shoots per plant, and enhanced plant vigour. Economic analysis revealed higher gross returns of Rs. 5.42 lakhs/ha and net returns of Rs. 3.62 lakhs/ha in demonstration plots compared with farmers’ practice, which recorded gross returns of Rs. 3.51 lakhs/ha and net returns of Rs. 1.71 lakhs/ha, with a benefit-cost ratio of 3.01. The large extension gap highlights the need for wider dissemination of BA technology. The study indicates that BA application is an economically viable practice for inducing early flowering, improving productivity, and enhancing farmers’ income in orchid cultivation.