Standardization of integrated nutrient management modules for growth and flowering in chrysanthemum (Dendranthema × grandiflora Tzvelev)

The present investigation was carried out to find out the optimum dose of NPK in combination with biostimulants for quality flower production of chrysanthemum cv. 'Purnima'. In the experiment, various biostimulants i.e., fulvic acid, humic acid, seaweed extract and Arka microbial consortium were used with different levels of recommended doses of NPK fertilizers i.e., 50% and 75% RDF in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three number of replications. From the experiment, maximum plant height (50.76 cm), plant spread (27.74 cm), flower duration (57.75 days), flower diameter (8.85 cm), number of cut stems per plant (4.87), number of cut stems per square meter (43.8), the weight of cut stem (25.16 g) and vase life (22.27 days) was observed when 3 ml/l humic acid (after 30, 60 and 90 days of planting) was applied to the plants with 75% RDF. Further, early flower bud formation (43.85 days), and flowering (101.50 days) were also recorded in 3 ml/l humic acid (after 30, 60 and 90 days of planting) + 75% RDF. The benefit-cost ratio (B:C ratio) was also found highest in this treatment.