This course provides students with the knowledge of various recommended techniques for successfully cultivating profitable Gerbera crop under controlled conditions. Gerbera flowers have become popular for cultivation in India due to their color variations, symbolic meanings, flower size, long-lasting nature, and adaptability to different cultivation methods. The demand for Gerbera is high in both domestic and export markets throughout the year, making it one of the top ten cut flowers in the global flower trade. India, being geographically closer to major flower-consuming countries, has significant potential in the flower trade, especially during severe winters in other flower-producing countries.
To meet international quality standards, it is necessary to cultivate high-yielding and long-lasting hybrid cultivars in polyhouses or greenhouses. Growing Gerbera under cover has several advantages, including the exploitation of genetic potential in exotic hybrids or varieties, year-round cultivation, protection against adverse weather conditions, and prevention of pest and disease incidence. This approach allows farmers to achieve higher returns.
By taking this course, students will gain the confidence and knowledge to adopt Gerbera cultivation as a business model. They will analyze both the opportunities and threats associated with this practice and develop strategies to overcome challenges. This course aims to empower students to pursue Gerbera cultivation as a profitable venture.