Effect of tree spacing and organic manures on various growth parameters of Calendula officinalis L under Grewia optiva based agro-forestry system

The present investigation was carried out in the experimental farm of Department of Silviculture and Agroforestry, Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, HP during 20102011. The study revealed that the maximum leaves and branch wood biomass were recorded in 3 m spacing. Growth parameters of Calendula officinalis were suppressed under the close spacing. Organic manures showed a remarkable effect on growth parameters of C officinalis. Among organic manure doses FYM @5.00 kg per plot was found to be the best which was closely followed by vermicompost (2.50 kg). Growth parameters were also found to be higher in open condition as compared to beneath tree canopy. However integrating winter annual flower crop with Grewia optiva offers an excellent opportunity for diversification and more income generation than the monoculture. It will also open new vistas for the research to evaluate the performance of flower crop under tree canopy.