A collaborative study by Pakistan’s Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University (SBBU) and China’s Yunnan Academy of Agricultural Sciences (YAAS) has developed new techniques to help farmers grow roses and marigolds more efficiently. These flowers play an important role in Pakistan’s cultural events and celebrations.
Over the course of a one-year project in Yunnan, China, researchers tackled challenges such as disease control and pest management. They introduced new rose and marigold varieties that grow faster, cost less, and resist diseases better, providing a much-needed solution for farmers.
Healthier Flowers, Stronger Crops
Dr. Niaz Ali, a lecturer at SBBU, played a key role in the study. He explained that these new floral varieties grow without complex tissue culture processes, making them easier and more affordable to cultivate. Additionally, they adapt better to Pakistan’s climate, which enhances their durability.
To protect these flowers from fungal and viral infections, the researchers introduced a pathogen detection technique that helps farmers identify diseases early. These methods could also benefit other major crops like cotton, wheat, and rice, expanding their impact beyond the floral industry.
Future Plans for Growth
Following this breakthrough, SBBU and YAAS plan to:
- Develop more high-yield, disease-resistant flower varieties.
- Train farmers in advanced cultivation methods.
- Explore the commercial potential of roses and marigolds in essential oils and medicine.
This Pakistan-China partnership brings modern farming techniques to Pakistan, offering farmers new opportunities to improve productivity and sustainability. As a result, floral farming will become more profitable and environmentally friendly.
