Abstract
Tulips are amongst the choicest cutflower that possess eminent status in global floriculture. However, they are not as productive in subtropical regions as they are in temperate zones. This crop has recently been introduced in Pakistan but the exotic cultivars responded with partial success in the new environment. A study was conducted to compare the potential of some elite cultivars (Apeldorn, Barcelona, Clear water, Golden Apeldorn, Ile de France, Leen Van der Mark, Parade, Purple flag, Queen of night, Spring green) for cut tulip production in the climatic condition of Faisalabad. Results indicated that cultivars like Parade, Leen Vander Mark and Ile de France responded best amongst the tested cultivars regarding their fresh mass, leaf area, tepal diameter, flower quality, stem diameter, earlier days to flower bud emergence, vase life and bulbils attributes. Overall, cultivar response was significantly inconsistent in context to their growth, morphology, flowering potential and post-harvest quality. Hence these cultivars (Leen Vander Mark, Ile de France and Parade) are recommended for commercial cultivation keeping in view their vigorous growth potential and adaptability. (c) 2018 Friends Science Publishers