Effect of different varieties and spacing on growth and flower yield of China aster

The present investigation was carried out by Horticulture Section, College of Agriculture, Nagpur during the year 2023–24 with the objectives to study the effects of different varieties and spacing on growth and flower yield of China aster. The experiment was laid out in factorial randomized block design with three levels of variety viz., Phule Ganesh Violet, Phule Ganesh Pink, Phule Ganesh Purple and four levels of spacing viz., 30×20 cm, 30×30 cm, 30×45cm and 45×45cm with twelve treatment combinations replicated thrice over a fertile soil. The results of present investigation in respect of growth parameters, viz. maximum plant height was observed with the variety Phule Ganesh Purple with 30 cm × 20 cm spacing. Number of branches/plant and leaf area at 50% flowering were recorded maximum with the variety Phule Ganesh Violet at 45 cm × 45 cm spacing. In respect of quality parameters, Phule Ganesh Pink variety with 30 cm × 20 cm spacing showed the early first flower bud initiation, days to 50% flowering and days to first harvest. Regarding number of flowers/plant was observed maximum in the variety Phule Ganesh Pink with spacing 45 cm × 45 cm. Whereas, the maximum flower yield was recorded with the variety Phule Ganesh Pink at spacing of 30 cm × 20 cm in China aster.