The peony flower, renowned for its vibrant hues, has historically been cultivated worldwide primarily for its ornamental allure.
Nevertheless, commercial cultivation of this exquisite flower in India has largely remained uncharted territory until recent trials undertaken at the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR)-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (IHBT)’s floriculture farm situated in Palampur. Spearheaded by a team of dedicated researchers, these trials have commenced at the CSIR-IHBT, yielding promising outcomes and sparking enthusiasm for the prospective cultivation of this profitable crop among farmers.
The favorable climatic conditions and soil attributes of the region, complemented by meticulous research and development endeavors, have culminated in noteworthy achievements for this high-value crop within the Indian Himalayan terrain.
Dr. Bhavya Bhargava, the lead researcher overseeing the peony trials, articulated his perspective on the outcomes. “The preliminary trials have exceeded our expectations. Peonies have exhibited remarkable adaptability to the local ecosystem, showcasing vigorous growth and blooming,” he affirmed. With a burgeoning global demand for peony flowers, the successful cultivation of peonies in India could herald new avenues of revenue generation for farmers.
Dr. Sudesh Kumar Yadav, the institute’s director, emphasized that the success of the peony trials at CSIR-IHBT not only underscores the institution’s dedication to groundbreaking research but also underscores the significance of exploring innovative crops aligned with India’s agricultural and economic objectives.
As the trials advance and further data is amassed, researchers maintain a sanguine outlook regarding the scalability of peony cultivation. In the ensuing years, the vision of peony fields adorning the picturesque landscapes of the Himalayas may become a familiar spectacle, presenting fresh prospects and aspirations to farmers and agricultural enthusiasts alike.