Division of Ornamental Crops started in 1968 with the establishment of Indian Institute of Horticulture Research at Bangalore. The division focused on development of novel varieties of ornamental crops along with appropriate production technology. With the emphasis on export earning and emergence in the demand for cut flowers, efforts were diversified to include protected cultivation. Over the years, the division has developed a good number of varieties and hybrids for open field as well as for protected cultivation. Many of these varieties are popular with farmers and are in demand throughout the country.
For efficient catering of planting material, time and again the division has established collaboration with Department of Horticulture, Karnataka State. With the changing scenario in research, the division got support from ICAR and DBT to take up advanced research. With emerging issues of Plant Breeders Rights, the division is doing collaborative work with the support of PPV & FR (Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers Rights) Authority, for implementation of the act. Scientists of the division have been recognized as Post graduate teacher and Guide for PG research in University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore; University of Horticulture Sciences, Bagalkot; Kuvempu University, Karnataka; Dr. Y.S.R. Horticultural University, Andhra Pradesh; and IARI, New Delhi.
Mandate
- Carrying out basic and strategic research for enhancing productivity and quality of ornamental crops
- To act as a repository of genetic resources in ornamental crops
- To undertake front line demonstration in new technologies evolved and to impart training for upgrading scientific knowledge of technical personnel involved in floriculture enterprises.
Thrust Areas
- Developing superior varieties/hybrids suitable for open / protected cultivation.
- Developing varieties resistant to biotic and abiotic stresses.
- Mitigation of abiotic stresses through substrate dynamics and optimization of growth factors.
- Use of ornamentals and indigenous plants for better health and ecofriendly environment.
- Multiplication of quality planting material, popularization and commercialization through public-private partnership.
Transfer of Technology
- To spread the advancement made in research, the division is conducting several National and International training program in various aspects of floriculture.
- The division also focuses on strengthening public private partnership through commercialization of varieties and technologies developed.
- With the collaboration of State Dept. of Horticulture, seed and planting material are multiplied and new varieties have spread along with advanced production technology.
Dr Tejaswini P
Principal Scientist & I/c. Head
Division of Floriculture and Medicinal Crops
IIHR, Hessaraghatta Lake Post
Bangalore - 560 089.