Resource Book on Horticulture Nursery Management

Unit 1: Introduction to Horticulture Nursery
Index
1.1 Introduction
1.2 Contents
1.2.1 Scope and Importance of Plant Propagation
1.2.2 Role of Nurseries in Horticulture Development
1.2.3 Types of Plant Propagation Nurseries
1.2.4 Physical and Financial <strong>Resource</strong>s for Nursery
1.2.5 Mother Plants: Selection and Maintenance
1.3 Glossary
1.4 Points to Remember
1.5 Self Check Questions
1.1 Introduction
Agriculture and Horticulture are vital sciences as they suffice the very basic need of
food for the Human beings. Qualitative and quantitative food can essentially be produced
from healthy plants which in turn are produced only when their seedlings/sapplings are
vigorous and healthy. Nursery is consequently the basic need of horticulture. Plant
propagation techniques and practices is the core of horticulture nurseries. The planting
materials for horticultural plantations are raised from seeds and vegetative parts.
Role of Mother Plants is very primary and important. The fate of nursery depends on
quality and truthfulness of mother plants. A good nursery entrepreneur does not depend
on others for procurement of mother plants. Mother plants are required for both stock and
scion. Mother plants should be selected on the basis of its genetic traits and other factors
like availability and adaptation in the growing environment.
At the end of this unit, you will be able to know and understand,
� Importance of plant propagation nurseries.
� Role of nurseries in Horticultural development.
� Types of plant propagation nurseries.
� Various sections in the nursery and their importance.
� Financial and other resources for the nursery enterprise.
1.2 Contents
1.2.1 Scope and Importance of Plant Propagation in Horticulture
Most of the horticultural plants, particularly the fruit trees, are perennial in nature.
Some of the fruit trees survive and produce fruits for about 100 years. Horticulture has a
significant role in human nutrition. It plays a prime role in wealth generation and socio-
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