Performance of gerbera under protected condition in hilly region of West Bengal

An investigation was conducted to evaluate the performance of nine cultivars of gerbera (Gerbera jamesnii Bolus ex Hook, f.) under protected condition in the hilly region of West Bengal. Significant differences were recorded for all the characters studied. Marked variations in vegetative growth parameters appeared to be genotype-specific. Early flowering was observed in Red Explosion, while delayed flowering was evident in Kalimpong Red Accordingly, cultivars may be selected for having a prolonged blooming period. Flaurance exhibited maximum flower diameter, disc diameter and weight of flower stalk. Kalimpong Red exhibited the ability to produce greater number of flowers/clump/ year. Variations in floral traits can be attributed to the genetic makeup of the cultivar.