Horticulturists take to Zantedeschia farming in Uttarakhand

Nainital, June 4 (ANI): In a bid to boost the production and export of Zantedeschia flower, the horticulturists here have engaged themselves in growing its seeds through the innovative process of tissue culture with multiple techniques.

The state government and the Horticulture department have installed a processing unit for growing seeds on a large scale.

The Director of Indo-Dutch Horticulture Park, Sudhir Chaddha, said the initiative had been launched as an experiment to reduce the import of Zantedeschia seeds and increase its export.

"We were trying to develop it from the last 7 to 8 years. Through the Indo-Dutch Horticulture Technology, the development of the seed has taken place. The production is of international level. I think we can promote the export of this flower," Chaddha said.

The Director also appreciated the enhanced quality and production of flowers through new technology.

"This is for the first time that this technology has been used. We are quite surprised with the increased production and enhanced quality. We can cultivate this flower on a wider scale in future. This is a new concept for the country," he added.

Zantedeschia flowers are popular and in great demand in New Zealand and Holland.

The current standards within the country have opened the doors for its exports.

The project would also facilitate the farmers to buy these seeds at lower prices.

The seeds, if exported would cost up to Rs.125 - 150, whereas the farmers could get the seeds grown within the state at Rs. 70 - 80. (ANI)