Influence of Photoperiods on Dormancy and Rhizome Formation of Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe)

Abstract

The effects of photoperiods on dormancy and rhizome formation of ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) were studied, Ginger plantlets produced form tissue culture were transplanted for better establishment and acclimatization under greenhouse and open field conditions. Well established and acclimatized plants were exposed to 8,10,12,14 hours and natural (12.01-11.19 hours) photoperiods during October, 1995 to January, 1996. After adjustment of photoperiods in October, new tillers were continuously produced till January under 14 and 12 hours photoperiods. New tiers were not produced and plants started yellowing and dying in November under 8 hours photoperiod and in December under 10 hours and natural photoperiods. The crop had no dormancy under 14 and 12 hours but entered dormancy under 8,10 hours and natural photoperiods. The highest fresh rhizome yield was produced under 12 hours photoperiod but rhizome yield for seed purpose was highest under 10 hours and natural photoperiods.