The fields across the state are turning golden and orange as the marigold plants, which were planted eyeing the Onam season sales, have begun to bloom. The important fact that needs to be noted is that the area under flower cultivation has increased from around 300 hectares in 2023 to 500 hectares this year.However, the state has a long way to go before it can achieve the target of becoming self-sufficient in the Onam flower market, according to those in the industry and the agriculture department.
Pramod Madhavan, assistant director (planning) of the agriculture department, speaking to TNIE, says, "There has been a significant increase in the land holdings brought under flower cultivation in the state. More and more farmers are showing interest in the cultivation. Farmers find flower cultivation very attractive because of its low input and great output."
He says the acreage under marigold cultivation is higher compared to other types of flowers like vadamalli (globe amaranth) and jasmine. "The reason is the difficulty faced during the harvest and the time taken for the plant to bloom. The vadamalli flowers are small and harvesting is very difficult. In the case of jasmine, cultivation is difficult and flower production might not be as expected," he adds.
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