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SCENARIO OF GLADIOLUS PRODUCTION IN PUNJAB, PAKISTAN 

TARIQ RIAZ, SALIK NAWAZ KHAN^* AND ARSHAD JAVAID

Abstract: Consumption of cut flowers is going to increase day by day in Pakistan. It is related with the rising living standards, education and electronic media that have promoted this business in recent years. The production and consumption of cut flowers has increased over the past decade and this increase is expected to continue. However, local consumption and demand is yet to be satisfied. Gladiolus is one of the most popular cut flowers. The consumers appreciate it due to its magnificent inflorescence. A survey of the Punjab was carried out during 2004-2005 to investigate the production status of Gladiolus in the province in comparison to other cut flowers. Structured questionnaires were distributed among the growers and sellers of the Punjab. The results of the survey revealed that varied agro-climatic conditions in Punjab could allow commercial cultivation of all varieties of Gladiolus flowers either in open field or under green house conditions. However, the commercial cultivation of Gladiolus in the country has so far been restricted to limited areas of the province mainly due to domestic market for these flowers. Comprehensive survey indicates Gladiolus is next to roses in preference by the consumers in various cities of the Punjab.

Institute of Mycology and Plant Pathology, University of the Punjab Quaid-e-Azam Campus, Lahore-54590, Pakistan