Cut Foliage Crops: Production Systems, Postharvest Handling and Global Trade Perspectives
S. P. Mirunalini *
Department of Horticulture, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru College of Agriculture and Research Institute, Karaikal – 609 603, Pondicherry, India.
A. Shanthi
Department of Horticulture, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru College of Agriculture and Research Institute, Karaikal – 609 603, Pondicherry, India.
M. Manikandan
Department of Horticulture, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru College of Agriculture and Research Institute, Karaikal – 609 603, Pondicherry, India.
C. Jayalakshmi
Department of Horticulture, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru College of Agriculture and Research Institute, Karaikal – 609 603, Pondicherry, India.
M. Ganga
Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore – 641 003, Tamil Nadu, India.
Malepati S. N. V. S. Sri Priya Bhargavi
Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore – 641 003, Tamil Nadu, India.
Shaik Sumera
Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore – 641 003, Tamil Nadu, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Cut foliage crops represent an indispensable component of modern floriculture, contributing significantly to aesthetic value, economic sustainability and environmental quality. Their wide adaptability, long vase life and low production costs make them suitable for both domestic and export-oriented floriculture systems. Advances in propagation techniques, cultivation practices and postharvest management have enhanced the commercial potential of foliage crops. However, further research is required to develop standardized production protocols and improve postharvest technologies. Overall, cut foliage crops represent a sustainable, economically viable and aesthetically valuable segment of modern floriculture in both domestic and global markets.
Keywords: Modern floriculture, cut foliage, cultivation, propagation, market demand