Impact of Trichoderma, Manure and Fertilizer on Flower Yield and Postharvest Traits in Rose under Polyhouse

Abstract

The floriculture sector in India is experiencing rapid expansion driven by heightened demand, export opportunities and improvements in cultivation techniques. Among the most commercially valuable crops are roses, often referred to as the 'King of Flowers,' whose quality and yield are significantly affected by soil fertility and nutrient management practices. This research was carried out in a naturally ventilated polyhouse at Horticulture Research Farm, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University from 2023 to 2025 in rose variety Top Secret. The findings indicated that treatment T8 (50% Vermicompost + 50% RDF with Trichoderma inoculation) significantly enhanced plant spread (47.12 cm) and leaf area (1283.82 cm²). Treatment T7 (50% FYM + 50% RDF with Trichoderma inoculation) achieved the maximum flower diameter (112.28 mm) and stem length (70.52 cm), while T7 (50% FYM + 50% RDF with Trichoderma inoculation) produced the maximum petals per flower (78.72). Additionally, postharvest quality was improved, with T7 exhibiting the least weight loss (5.01%) and the highest MDA content (8.08 nmol/g FW), highest flower yield (380.68), stem diameter (5.34 mm) and branch number (6.52). The combination of organic and inorganic nutrient sources, particularly with Trichoderma, resulted in notable enhancements in overall plant performance and postharvest durability.