Evaluation of gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii Bolus ex. Hooker f.) genotypes for vegetative and flower quality under poly house

The present investigation was carried out to evaluate the performance of seven genotypes under polyhouse conditions in sub-tropical mid hills of Meghalaya. Significant differences were observed for all the characters. The results revealed that genotype Monarch recorded maximum leaf length (38.75 cm), number of leaves/plant (23.22) and delayed bud burst (123.00 days) and first flower opening (130.00 days). Maximum stalk length (62.85 cm) and disc diameter (2.97 cm) was recorded in genotype Piton. Genotype Sangria recorded maximum leaf breadth (11.25 cm), number of suckers/plant (4.13) and number of ray florets/flower head (69.65 cm). Maximum plant spread (46.51 cm), stalk diameter (0.83 cm), flower diameter (12.98 cm) and vase life (11.65 days) was recorded in genotype Pink Elegance. However, genotype Sazou recorded maximum number of flowers/plant (37.65 cm) followed by Pi ton (37.25) and Sangria (36.62). On the basis of overall performance, genotypes Pink Elegance, Pi ton and Sangria were found promising for cut flower production under polyhouse in Meghalaya conditions.