Status and availability of tuberose for commercial cultivation: A study on consumers’ choice

The demand for the floricultural products has been steadily increasing both in domestic as well as in export markets. Foothills of Uttarakhand have variable climatic conditions along with efficient transport and communication connectivity. The study was to assess consumers’ opinion about status of tuberose cultivation and availability of planting materials and to identify the preference of tuberose cultivation among different levels of consumers. A multi-stage, purposive cum random sampling design was used in the study for selecting respondents. “Understanding the consumer’s choice” in respect of cut flowers particularly tuberose at producers, consumers, and a florist’s levels. A questionnaire was developed to serve as the instrument for data collection. Responses were recorded in the form of frequencies. Per cent of score was calculated and ranked. The study revealed that tuberose is the most preferred cut flower crop (56.67%) by the producer, consumer and it blooms during March to September when flower requirement is high. Maximum (53.33%) respondents procured planting material of tuberose from progressive farmers of nearby area areas. Most of the consumers had opined to purchase double type tuberose varieties for decoration purpose. In response to availability of planting material with novel traits, maximum (66.67%) responses were given to ‘broadening of consumer’s choice will be enhanced’. The majority (66.33%) of the consumers responded to procure flower spikes of tuberose from local florist. The majority (36.67 per cent) of the consumers choice towards double type with long rachis length tuberose variety.