Marigold Farming in India: Cultivation and Market Value

Marigold farming is slowly growing in India since it is widely used in religious activities and festivals and as a decorative item. The bright-coloured flowers, particularly those of yellow and orange varieties, are ubiquitously seen in Indian homes and temples. Marigold farming is, therefore, financially rewarding for farmers due to a high return on their input and investment. However, if the appropriate measures are taken in marigold farming, it will yield good profits.

Let’s learn more about the cultivation techniques used to grow marigolds and their value in the Indian market.

Different Types of Marigold in the Indian Market

There are two main types of marigolds cultivated in India:

African Marigold (Tagetes erecta):

The African marigold has large, round flowers and is commonly used for ornamental and religious uses. It has shiny and brightly coloured flowers, which include orange and yellow, and the colourful flowers grow densely and are tough, which makes them suitable for agriculture in various regions.

French Marigold (Tagetes patula):

The French marigold is a bit smaller compared to its showy counterpart but is lively nonetheless; it is the best fit for gardens and landscapes. It is also known for its disease resistance and anti-pest character. Thus, it is associated with the companion planting of various crops.

Climate and Soil Requirements

In India, marigolds can be grown in different climate zones. Nonetheless, they thrive in warm and sunny areas of the earth or any other region.

Climate:

Marigolds are native to tropical and subtropical climates. Proper growth requires full sun exposure and a temperature range of 18- 25 °C. While the plants can grow in soft frost, the frost has the potential to cause great destruction.

Soil:

Marigolds can be grown in all types of soils, but they thrive well in well-drained, loamy soils that are dark in colour and have plenty of organic matter. For optimal marigold growth, the best pH is considered to range between 6. 5 and 7. 5. Incorporating organic manure or compost into the soil before planting increases the fertility of the soil, thus increasing the yield of flowers.

Steps for Marigold Cultivation

Let’s discuss the cultivation process, from soil preparation to harvesting, to understand Marigold farming better.

Soil Preparation:

The soil should be tilled with a plough 2 to 3 times before sowing. This will help break the clumps for aeration. To change the soil texture, use compost or organic manure in the garden. Rotavators can help farmers break down and level the soil for the next process. Farmers who are looking to buy a good rotavator can consider checking out Mahindra Rotavator. They come in different models with different specifications.

Sowing and Planting:

Marigolds may be grown from seeds or seedlings. They are mostly rooted in a nursery bed, and once they remain for 4-5 weeks, then it is transplanted into the field. They also recommended that the seedlings should be planted 40cm apart so as to allow good air circulation and growth.

Irrigation:

The plants need water, which should be frequently supplied to them at the initial stage of their growth. Irrigation should be carried from the time the plant is transplanted from the nursery to the new field. Further irrigation may then be done based on this or in reference to the soil moisture levels, but it is very important to ensure that the plant is not over-watered so as to discourage root rot.

Fertilization:

It is also advisable to apply the correct proportions of fertilizers during the plant’s growth period. Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in the proportions of 40N-60P-40K are advised most often. Organic sources of soil amendment also include the use of organic fertilizers such as locally prepared vermicompost or farmyard manure.

Weed Control:

Maintenance activities include continually weeding the crops to ensure that they do not struggle for nutrients and water. Manual weeding can be applied at the early stages of development, while as the plants grow, they intercede with each other to minimize the growth of weeds.

Pest and Disease Management:

Marigold plants are fairly tolerant but are prone to pests such as aphids, caterpillars, and mites. There is also a risk of bacterial infections, including blight root rot and fungal diseases. Pests, diseases, and illnesses can be managed by constant checks and the use of neem-based pesticides/biological agents.

Harvesting:

Marigolds are harvested after 60-70 days of transplanting. The flowers should be picked when they have not yet wilted but have bloomed to their optimum best. The flowers are harvested by hand, and in order to maximize their freshness, they need to be picked in the morning.

The market value of Marigold Flowers

Marigolds have a considerable market position in India, where they are highly demanded in religious, cultural, and social ceremonies. Marigold is commonly used in temples and during festival seasons like Diwali, Dussehra & Duga puja etc.

Currently, India is a leading exporter of marigold flowers and seeds, and the countries that import them include the USA, UAE, and European countries. The market of exporting marigolds further boosts the overall market value, thus creating income opportunities for Indian farmers. In addition, the flowers of the marigold plant are used in the preparation of natural dyes, oils, and cosmetics.