EFFECTS OF FARMYARD MANURE, VERMICOMPOST AND TRICHODERMA ON FLOWERING AND CORM ATTRIBUTES IN GLADIOLUS

To see the effect of farmyard manure (FYM), vermicompost and Trichoderma alone and in combination on flowering and corm yield in gladiolus a field experiment was conducted. Application of vermicompost + Trichoderma resulted in early spike emergence, floret colour show, opening of first floret and increased diameter of first, third and fifth floret. Maximum length of spike, no. of florets/spike and duration of flowering was registered with application of farmyard manure. Treatment FYM + vermicompost significantly enhanced shelf life of first and third floret. However, maximum weight of corms/plant and diameter of corm recorded with FYM + vermicompost + Trichoderma and FYM + vermicompost treatments, respectively.