Flower cultivation expands in Madhya Pradesh as local supply grows

Madhya Pradesh farmers have expanded flower cultivation, with the area under it reaching about 45,000 hectares. The area has grown by around 25% over three years, and local farmers now supply about 80% of the flowers in the market. Ahead of Diwali, flower demand in the state was reported to have risen by about 70%. Bhopal’s wholesale market was receiving around 300 quintals of flowers a day, with marigolds selling for ₹40–50 per kilogram. Farmers in areas including Sehore district grow marigold, rose and gerbera. Flower prices had been as low as ₹5 per kilogram earlier in the season, leaving some growers unable to cover costs.

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Notable Points

• Marigold petals in poultry feed: Dried marigold petals can be ground into powder and added to poultry feed to colour egg yolks and broiler skin.