Seed Production of Cut Flowers of Callistephus chinensis in Bulgaria – Status, Trends and Perspectives

Abstract

Callistephus chinensis is one of the most widespread annual species successfully used to form color groups in the landscaping, it is used as potted plant, and especially as attractive cut flower with relatively long vase life. After 1999 the period of frequent political and economic changes in the country has led to decline in flower production. There is a lack of information on the availability of land and number of farms engaged in seed production and production of cut flowers from annual asters. The purpose of this study is by using literature and official statistics of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food to outline the present actual production and consumption of annual asters in Bulgaria. The results highlight Callistephus chinensis as perspective ornamental crop but with still greatly reduced production in Bulgaria.