Economic Evaluation of Gladiolus (Gladiolus L.) Genotypes for off Season Cultivation in Sub Temperate Zone

Abstract

Gladiolus is an economically important ornamental flower, widely grown for its vibrant spikes and commercial value in India. This study assessed the yield and economic performance of eleven gladiolus genotypes (Arka Ayush, Arka Darshan, Arka Kumkum, Arka Naveen, Pratap Glad-1, Punjab Elegance, Punjab Glad-2, Punjab Glance, Punjab Lemon Delight, Pusa Manmohak and Punjab Dawn) over two cropping seasons (2021-2022 and 2022-2023) under naturally ventilated polyhouse conditions. The experiment was conducted at the Floriculture Research Farm, Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Himachal Pradesh, using a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications. Corms were planted in mid-December at 30 cm × 10 cm spacing and 5 cm depth, accommodating approximately 30 plants per square meter. Significant variation was observed among genotypes regarding corm and spike yield as well as gross return, net return and benefit-cost ratio. Punjab Dawn achieved the highest spike and corm production (46,240.00/ 800 m²) with maximum total revenue (₹ 3,69,920.00) and maximum B:C ratio (1.76), making it the most profitable cultivar for offseason cultivation under protected conditions compared to other genotypes under study. These results demonstrate the economic potential of selecting superior genotypes and adopting improved cultivation methods under protected environments. The findings provide practical insights for growers and policymakers to optimize resource allocation, increase profitability and enhance sustainability in gladiolus production.