Effect of Land Configuration and Vermicompost on Hardening Status of Gaillardia pulchella under Micro-climate Conditions

Abstract

Gaillardia (Gaillardia pulchella Foug), commonly known as the blanket flower, is a herbaceous perennial renowned for its vibrant, daisy-like flowers. This paper provides a thorough examination of G. pulchella, encompassing its botanical characteristics, hardening configuration, and ecological significance. The present study investigates the impact of land configuration and vermicompost application on the growth metrics of Gaillardia pulchella, and discuss how different configurations affect microclimate conditions and plant acclimatization. By evaluating different land configurations and vermicompost treatments, this research aims to optimize cultivation practices for enhancing the plant’s growth performance, floral quality, and overall yield. The findings provide insights into sustainable agricultural practices for improving the productivity and aesthetic value of G. pulchella. The present results suggest that the flat, ridge and furrow and raised bed configuration, particularly with 75% vermicompost with (33.53, 34.44 and 42.70) is optimal for cultivating Gaillardia flowers. However, minimum plant height was observed under the control plot (24.56, 17.77 and 31.72) cm for all three bed types. The maximum number of leaves count treatment were maximum (83.40, 81.46 and 99.26) with 50% vermicompost under flat, ridge and furrow and raised bed configuration. Number of new shoots per plant at hardening was found maximum (8.66, 9.33 and 9.23) under 50% vermicompost. Moreover, the survival percentage (%) were also found maximum (83.40, 81.46 and 99.26) under 50% vermicompost. It may be concluded that by assessing different land configurations and vermicompost treatments which influences the hardening process characterized by plant acclimatization to environmental stress which ultimate the research aims to enhance the resilience and establishment of G. pulchella in controlled environments.