Effect of Different Grade-Sizes of Planting Materials on Flowering and Multiplication of Gladiolus Var. ‘White Oak’

The present investigation was carried out at I. A. R. I. Regional Station, Katrain (Kulu Valley) during 1982 and 1983 on gladiolus var, ‘White Oak’ taking all the possible 10 grades of planting materials (Jumbo and 9 other grades) to ascertain the behaviour of different grade-sizes on flowering and vegtative reproduction. It was found that quality spikes may be obtained only from Jumbo to grade No. 4 plantings, however, for home decoration Nos. 5–7 may also be used, although, grade Nos. 8 and 9 are non-flowering. Floret-size remains nearly the same irrespective of the grade planted. Corm size remains better upto grade No. 7 but number of corms produced per plant is better in Jumbo followed by grade No. 1 whereas weight of one corm is superior in grade Nos. 4 and 2. Weight and number of cormels remain supreme under grade No. 1 whereas propagation coefficient goes on increasing multifold with the decrease in the grade-sizes.