Study on the performance of some varieties of China aster (Callistephus chinensis Ness.) in Andhra Pradesh

An experiment was conducted to identify suitable variety(s) of China aster under open-conditions at the Agricultural Research Institute, APHU, Hyderabad during the year 2008–09. The results revealed a highly significant variation for various growths, floral, and flower yield parameters among the seven varieties. The maximum plant height, number of primary and secondary branches, plant spread and number of leaves at all stage of plant growth was noted in Phule Ganesh Violet. With regards to flowering traits, Phule Ganesh Pink recorded minimum number of days for first flower bud initiation (57.20), first flowering (66.73), 50% flowering (85.67) and flowering duration (60.96). Phule Ganesh White produced maximum flower diameter (7.37 cm), stalk length (34.78 cm) and vase life both as cut (9.13 days) and loose (4.73 days) flower. Phule Ganesh White also gave maximum number of flower per plant (36.73) and yield both per plant (208.81 g) and per hectare (23.20 t/ha). The minimum values for all these characters was recorded by cv. Local, except flowering duration, days to first flower bud initiation and their opening. Therefore, Phule Ganesh white can be adopted for commercial cultivation under Hyderabad conditions.