Assessment of the response to foliar application of nano fertilizers on the growth and flowering attributes of rose (Rosa Hybrida L.) cv Taj

Abstract:

An investigation was undertaken to assess the response of foliar application of nano fertilizers on growth and flowering attributes of Rose (Rosa hybrida L.) cv. 'Taj' under protected cultivation conditions. The experiment was conducted during 2025–26 at Balaji Krishi Farm, Patan, Durg (Chhattisgarh), while laboratory observations were recorded at the College of Horticulture and Research Station, Sankara, Patan. The experiment was arranged in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) consisting of ten treatments with three replications. Different concentrations of Nano DAP and Nano Zinc were applied individually and in combination through foliar spraying. The application of nano fertilizers significantly improved various growth and flowering attributes of rose plants. Among the evaluated treatments, the combined application of Nano DAP 6 ml L⁻¹ + Nano zinc 0.075 ml L⁻¹ (T₈) exhibited the most favourable response by recording the highest plant height at 30 and 60 days after treatment (127.67 and 136.10 cm, respectively), maximum number of branches (7.97), stem diameter (6.02 mm), number of leaves (70.67), leaf area (28.97 cm²) and total shoot production (9.67). Furthermore, T₈ resulted in early flower bud appearance (35.33 days) and minimum duration for flower bud opening (5.30 days). The enhanced growth and flowering performance under combined nano fertilizer application may be associated with improved nutrient availability, efficient nutrient absorption and enhanced physiological functioning of plants. The findings suggest that foliar application of Nano DAP at 6 ml L⁻¹ combined with Nano zinc at 0.075 ml L⁻¹ can be effectively used to improve growth and flowering potential of rose cv. Taj under protected cultivation.