Assessing the Performance and Flower Quality of Dendrobium Varieties Grown Under Shade-net in Konkan Region

Abstract

Dendrobium orchids are highly valued for their aesthetic appeal and durability, constituting a major segment of the global orchid market. A study was conducted in the Konkan region of Maharashtra (India) to determine the most suitable varieties for the specific climatic conditions of this area. The research was carried out under shade-net condition at the Hitech Nursery, College of Horticulture, Dapoli, in a Randomized Block Design (RBD) that included twelve varieties and thrice replications. The research revealed significant differences in various characteristics, including the timing of inflorescence emergence, spike length, the number of florets per spike, as well as flower length, diameter, and overall lifespan among different cultivars. During the findings, ‘Areedang Blue’ showed early inflorescence emergence as well as flowering (14.5 days), while ‘Thongchai Gold x Udom Yellow’ had late inflorescence emergence and flowering (19.89). The variety ‘White 5N’ was particularly noted for its extended spike length (57.60 cm) and consistently high florets per spike (10.66), while ‘Sonia Red’ was recognized for having the longest flower lifespan (62.59 days) with good flower size. Conversely, certain varieties such as ‘King Dragon’ and ‘Burana Jade x Madam Vipa’ did not expressed their potential to the local environment. This investigation offers prime information for the selection of best Dendrobium varieties suitable for cultivation in Konkan region under shade-net condition.