Farmers in Bihar’s Vaishali embrace anthurium farming

Vaishali: Farmers of Vaishali district in Bihar have decided to switch to flower farming instead of traditional crops to increase their earnings. Currently, they are taking a keen interest in the cultivation of marigolds and anthuriums. Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Hariharpur, has been providing support and training to them so that they can grow highly attractive flower anthuriums. Its farming is common in several states such as Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, West Bengal, and Maharashtra. Vaishali is the latest addition to its cultivation.

As per the experts, anthurium farming has the potential to provide substantial income to farmers. Not to talk of flowers, the demand for its leaves is high in the market. These flowers grow in different colours and shapes, and they are being cultivated all year in polyhouses. KVK Hariharpur has been supplying anthurium and transmitting technical knowledge to farmers regarding the cultivation of plants.

Also Read: Greater Noida gears up to host flower festival

The base for planting should be about 2.5 feet high and 25 feet long, with specially designed trays to hold the pots for successful cultivation of the plants. Anthurium needs fertilizer, which should be a mix of calcium nitrate (1.62 kg), ammonium nitrate (400 g), potassium (700 g), and iron (140 g) in 50 liters of water.

Another mix containing potassium (550 g), monopotassium (680 g), magnesium sulfate (1.12 kg), borax (10 g), zinc sulfate (4.3 g), and copper sulfate (0.56 g) in 50 liters of water. Pests attack anthuriums on a regular basis, so spraying is essential at least once a week. It is better for farmers to use organic pesticides for better results.