MSc.

The study entitled “Impact of seasons and pinching on growth and flowering in African marigold (Tagetes erecta L.)” was undertaken at the College of Agriculture, Padannakkad during 2013-2015. The experiment was conducted in three seasons namely, premonsoon (January 2014), monsoon (May 2014) and postmonsoon season (September 2014).The experiment consisted of two varieties (V1- Pusa Narangi Gainda, V2- Pusa Basanti Gainda) and two levels of pinching (P0- no pinching, P1- pinching at 30 days after transplanting). The interaction effect of variety x pinching on growth and yield was also studied.
Pinching had significant influence on growth and flowering of two African marigold varieties. Growth parameters like plant height, number of primary branches, number of secondary branches, leaf area and total biomass varied with pinching during three seasons. In both the varieties maximum number of primary branches was observed in January sown crop with pinching. In both the varieties, May sown crop recorded maximum number of secondary branches with pinching. Leaf area and total biomass was found maximum in May sown crop for both the varieties with pinching. Early flowering was observed in September sown crop. Flower diameter, length of flower stalk and flower weight was not influenced by season and pinching.
Maximum number of flowers and flower yield was observed in January sown crop in both the varieties with pinching. Among the varieties, Pusa Basanti Gainda can be recommended for cultivation during premonsoon season (Jan- April). In monsoon season, Pusa Narangi Gainda can be recommended for cultivation to meet the demand during Onam season.