2024

DETAILED PROJECT
REPORT ON
HORTICULTURE
[RKVY – 2024]

Project Location:
Village– Salghari,
Nandugaon
Promotedby:
District–Namchi-737126
State – Sikkim
JAGRITI, SELF HELP GROUP
Geographical Area– South Sikkim SALGHARI,
Project Area–1.0378Acres NAMCHI 737126
 INDEX

Particulars PageNo.

1. Introduction3- 20

2. Area of Operation/Scope of the Area 21

3. Aims and Objectives 21

4. Problems to Address and Strategy 21

5. Target Beneficiaries 22

6. Finance and Cost Outlay 22- 26

7. Time Frame/Project Implementation 26

8. Land and Land Allocation 27

9. Promoter 27

10. Project Preparation 27

2
 1. INTRODUCTION-

Orchid
Orchids are accepted as royal flowers in every field of human life. In
House, Office, Parks, Hotels and in every occasion, orchids have a
position. This has created employment opportunities and business lines in
modern days. So orchid plant production, flower production, flower
arrangements, bouquet making, large scale cultivation, Tissue culture,
hardening of tissue culture plants, breeding new varieties, potting
materials, plastic and wooden pot making, orchid fertilizers etc. are all
business now. Young entrepreneur can very well jump into the field.

The expected income from one acre of covered land converted into orchid
farm will bring an income of Rs. 30 to 35 Lakhs every year with a onetime
investment of Rs. 50 Lakhs. High ranges are still to be exploited for
successful orchid farming. Asian countries China, Taiwan, Japan, Australia,
Hawaiian Islands etc. are growing Tropical Orchids suitable for Indian
conditions. Most of the hybrid varieties selected for commercial cultivation
are developed from Indian orchids or closely related plants. So, it is a
successful venture to go for large scale orchid cultivation in India.

Zones and Orchids

The orchid habitation found in Sikkim can be divided into 4 zones in
accordance with the prevailing climate in these zones.

- Tropical Zone
The main characteristic of this zone is its dense forests. The temperature
in this region ranges between 18 degree to 25 degrees. The rainfall
received in this region is under 3000 mm. Also the humidity levels are at
its peak i.e. nearly 100%. Some of the famous breeds of orchid found in
this region include Callicarpa, Acamperigida, Cymbidium aloiflolium etc.
among many others.

- Sub-tropical Zone
The elevation ranges between 1100 to 2000 mtrs. In comparision to
tropical zones, this zone is cooler and ranges between 20 degrees to 30
degrees. The trees are not tall and has abushy appearance. Some of the
orchids include

3
Podochiluskhasianum, Coelogyneelata, Cheirostylis moniliformis, Calanthe
puberula etc.
- Temperate Zone
This zone is characterized by a cold environment and accommodates
heavy rainfall throughout the year. The temperature range is below 20
degrees. Occasional snowfall is also observed in this zone. The higher
altitudes in this zone are covered with conifer trees. Some of the species
of orchid include Liparis perpusilla, Neottialisteroides, N. pantlingii,
Bulbophyllumreptans among many others.

- Alpine Zone
This zone is covered in snow for almost half of the year and has very less
rainfall. The region is exposed to stones, boulders and has a very limited
lining of soil for vegetation to grow. The elevation is the maximum for this
zone and ranges between 3500 to 5000 mtrs. The orchids growing in this
zone are at the ground level and famous ones include Rhododendron
setosum, Didicieacunninghamii, Aorchisspathulata etc.

National Research Centre for Orchids

NRCC was established in Sikkim in the year 1996 with the main motive of
improving the productivity and quality of orchids in the region, and also to
increase the commercial value of orchids. NRCC played a major part in
providing training to the orchid farmers on its production and
commercialization. On 18th of January, 2016, Sikkim was declared an
organic state by the prime minister Narendra Modi, which further
reinforced the ongoing schemes and plans prevailing in the state.
Today, the emphasis is on advancement of attractive
assortments/mixtures, sub- atomic characterisation, normalization of
agro-methods, post-collect administration, creation of value planting
materials through tissue culture and production of vault of data identified
with all parts of orchids.
Bottom line:
Sikkim is recognised as the “paradise of orchids” in India and is well
known through out the world. With current plans and programmes
induced for the betterment of the orchids in the state, we can surely hope
for a better future for the orchids of Sikkim.
4
Cultivation of Orchid
Cultivation of orchid here means growing orchids on commercial level.
Orchids are grown according to their requirement of light, humidity and
tolerable temperature. All tropical orchids can be grown in India. India
itself has all the different temperature zones and altitude zones. That
means many commercial orchids can be grown in India if plants are
selected carefully. Sikkim and other North Eastern states are growing Cool
Orchids like Cymbidium, Ladies slippers and other suitable orchids,
whereas Southern states especially Kerala is most suited for almost all the
tropical orchids like Vanda hybrids, Arantheras, Mokaras, Arachnis,
Arandas, Aeridachnisetc which are sunny plants and can be grown in open
sunlight. Dendobiums and Oncidiums can be grown in partial shade under
greenhouse conditions. Dendobiums which are becoming popular now a
days need more shade and low temperature particularly low night
temperature. Plants are selected according to the growing environment.
Among the mentioned orchids there are still many factors to be
considered when plants are selected for commercial cultivation.

The major factors which make orchid cultivation more important are:
1. Orchids are more profitable than any other floriculture ventures.
2. The global acceptance for orchid flowers with royal status.
3. Once the method is known it is very easy to cultivate.
4. Once planted this need minimum aftercare and labour; just maintenance
only.

5. Many commercial orchids are fast multiplied.

6. Every-man engagement is also possible for commercial cultivation.
7. Even with minimum area of land it is possible.
8. High demand for orchids. At present marketing of flowers and plants is not
at all a problem.
9. This suits any entrepreneur who seeks status in activities.
10.Many orchid related side businesses are successful.
11.Orchid flowers as cut flowers are long lasting with more vase-life.
12. All colors, sizes and shapes suit any floral arrangement make
orchid’s number one.
5
Main factors which are to be taken care regarding Orchid cultivation are:
1. Wrong selection of Orchid plants without considering growing environment.
2. Light and shade consideration.
3. Differentiation of species orchids and hybrids.
4. Quality of planting material
5. Reliability about the variety of plants, as similar looking plants is many.

PLANTS SUITABLE FOR COMMERCIAL FLOWER PRODUCTION

Following orchid plants are available for cultivation in India;
Sikkim is situated in an ecological hotspot of the lower Himalayas, one of
only three among the eco regions of India.The forested regions of the
state exhibit a diverse range of fauna and flora. Owing to its altitudinal
gradation, the state has a wide variety of plants, from tropical species to
temperate, alpine and tundra ones, and is perhaps one of the few regions
to exhibit such a diversity within such a small area. Nearly 81 per cent of
the area of Sikkim comes under the administration of its forest
department.

Sikkim is home to around 515 rare orchids, 60 primula species and 36

rhododendron species. A relative of the Poinsettia, locally known as
"Christmas Flower", can be found in abundance in the mountainous state.
The Noble Dendrobiumis the official flower of Sikkim, while the
rhododendron is the state tree.

i) ARANTHERAS
Hybrid of Arachnis and Renantheras.arachnis are cutflower orchids for a
pretty long period with long flower spikes. Usually, arantheras have red
flowers on long spikes like that of Arachnis.The shelf life of flowers is very
good. Sometimes they are called red spiders. The common varieties
cultivated are Aranthera Annie Black, Aranthera Mohammed hannif,
Aranthera James Storeii. and new varieties are beingintroduced even now.

ii) ARACHNIS
They are the famous spider orchids sometimes called scorpion orchids
with respect to the shape of flowers. It is called a spider may be because
the arrangements of flowers on the erect spike resembles a spider
crawling up. The commonly cultivated plants are Arachnis, Maggie Oei.
They have different shades. Mainly "Red Ribbon"
and"YellowRibbon".SomecloselyrelatedtothespeciesArachnisflosaerisis
6
"Black ribbon". Its flowers are fragrant like the original species. Arachnis
are early varieties butstill used asthey are comparatively cheap toproduce
and easy growing varieties. The spikes will be 80 cm to 100 cms or more
in length with more than a dozen flowers. Related plants are Arachnis
Ishabel, Arachnis Kapama etcf/. kapama has fleshy flowers arranged all
facing a singleside, makingit good for many kinds of arrangements.
iii) ARANDAS
Arandas are hybrids made crossing Arachnis and Vandas. Since so many vandas
are used in hybridisation work a lot of Aranda varieties of different colours and sizes
are made. Aranda flowers are having wider petals than Arachnis and Arantheras,
erect spikes, bright coloured flowers, and easy growing. Popular items are aranda
Christene, Aranda Noorah blue, Aranda Golden sands, a Aranda Majula etc. new
varieties include Aranda green tiger, Aranda.
iv) VANDAS
Vandas are used from early period for cut flower production. The first cut
flower Vanda is Vanda Miss Jua Quim, the National Flower of Singapore.
Vandas are of various types according to the leaf types. Strap leaf vandas
are common. There are Pencil Vandas with pencil like cylindrical leaves
which can tolerate bright sunlightEG. Vanda miss Jua Quim, Vanda Poe
Poe Diana, Vanda Ruby Prince etc. Crossed with strap leaf type there are
semi terete vandas and majority of commercial vandas come under this
category. A lot of semis terete vandas are used in large scale cultivation.
Vanda John Clubbs, Vanda TMA, Vanda Josephine van Brero, Vanda
Velthuis, V. Emma Van devender,Vanda Hilo blue, vanda crosses with
other plants like Ascocentrum, Vandopsis, and many hybrids are used for
cut flower production.

v) MOKARAS
Mokaras are trigeneric hybrids involving, Ascocentrum, Arachnis and
Vanda. All the qualities of these generas are dominant in Mokaras,
especially the flourescent colours of flowers. All colours are available. It is
a major cut flower orchid now. popular varieties are Mokara Singapore
red, M. chakuan pink, M.Chakuan orange,Mokara sayan, Mokara boonchoo
gold, Moakara madam panni etc.
7
 vi) ONCIDUMS
Many varieties of oncidiums are cultivated for Cut flowers especially
yellow and red varieties. free flowering varieties like. Onc. Goldiana,
Onc.Aloha, Onc. sweet sugar, Onc. Sharry baby and intergeneric hybrids
like Brassidium, Brassias, Colmanara etc can be grown as their flowers are
good.

vii) DENDROBIUMS
Among the Asian orchids the most cultivated and marketed orchid flowers
are Dendrobiums. Thailand and other ASEAN countries grow maximum
Dendrobiums. Regularly new varieties are being released from the various
Orchid Companies.They can be grown successfully under controlled
conditions, i.e. under shade netand are easy for growing them. They give
flowers early compared to Vanda plants. Because of their lightweight the
flowers can be packed and transported easily. Papery flowers are long
lasting also. There are hundreds of hybrid varieties. But the early varieties
arestillgoodinrespect of theirplantlife. All coloursareavailable now. Whites:
Dendrobium Emma White, Den. Thailand White, Den kassem white, Den
Snow shite, Den Nappon, White diamond etc.

Reds:Den.ladycharm,Den.Pathumred,Den.Bobbymasena,Den.SabineRed,D
en.CyarakRed,Den.CleopatraBeautyxUdomsri, Den.StripoStripe(Red)
,Den.MorningSunetc.

Pink: Den. Chingmayi pink, Den. Sakura Pink, Den.nagoya Pink, Den.KB
Pink, Den.pink lady, Etc.

Green:Den.Buranagreen,Den.BuranaJade,Den.Aeridanggreen etc.

Yellow:Den. Kassem gold, Den.sherifa fathima, Den. thongchai

gold,Den.Boonchoogold,Den.Yellowmanta,Den.ThonchaiXLubang,Den.Give
by God ,Den Beanana royal.Etc.
8
Dark colours:Den.Blue violetta x Poyck, Den. Bermis Ruby, Den.New Blue
Charm, Den. Blue Charm x burana dark blue, Den.genting fragrance, Etc.

Multi Colours:Majority of dendrobiums are double colours with lip

differentlycoloured and the beauty is with the contrasting lip colour. Pink
andWhite,White and violet, white and Red, Yellow and Red, greenish white
and maroon, light blue and dark, Etc. Popular varieties are: Den.Yellow
butterfly and yellow bomb, Den. nappon star bright, Den.Ekapol panda,
Den. Sonia varieties, Den.PopEye, Den.heang beauty, Den.Madam Vipar,
Den.rinnappa, Den.Burana Jade Red Lip. Etc.

Striped: Den.strippo stripe, Den.candy strip and its numerous crosses,

Den.Compactum pink strip, Den. burana strip, Den.aeridang green x
Burana strip, Etc. And many new colour combinations are coming
regularly.

OrchidFlowerProduction
Orchid growing for cut flower production is entirely different from ordinary
way of orchid growing. Now it is an industry. All parameters for a lucrative
commercial venture are applicable for cut flower production. The success
of the industrydepends on the quality of the product, rate of production,
profit from it,developmental scope, availability of inputs, marketing etc. all
are very important. So is the case with Orchid Flower production. The
major factors for a successful orchid flower producing farm will be pointed
out here. Any way it differs from place, environment, variety of plant etc.

SELECTIONOFPLANTS
All orchid varieties are not suitable for cut flower production though they
produce attractive flowers. Here the flowers are those wanted by the
florists, professional,and other end users as customers. Quality of the
flower is the major factor. The selected plants should be most suited for
the growing area. Or suitable environment should be provided for good
growth. Plants should be floriferous, i.e. free floweringor regular flowering.
Economically the plant cost should be feasible. It should give maximum
number of flowers per year. The flower should have long case life of
minimum7daysfromthedayofharvesting.Plantsshouldbeself-productiveand
9
having long life. In Sikkim conditions, Dendrobium is still used and most
suitable.This variety is available in number of colours. These are;

Whites: Dendrobium Emma White, Den. Thailand White, Den. kassem

white, Den. Snow white,Den. Nappon, White diamond etc.

Reds:Den.ladycharm,Den.PathumRed,Den.BobbyMasena,Den.Sabine Red,
Den. Cyarak Red, Den. Cleopatra Beauty, Den. Stripo Stripe (Red) , Den.
Morning Sun etc.

Pink:Den. Chingmayi pink, Den. Sakura Pink, Den. Nagoya Pink, Den. KB
Pink, Den. Pinklady, etc.

Green:Den.Buranagreen,Den.BuranaJade,Den.Aeridanggreenetc.

Yellow:Den. Kassem Gold, Den. Sherifa Fathima, Den. Thongchai Gold,

Den. Boonchoo Gold, Den. Yellow manta, Den. Thonchai X Lubang, Den.
Give by God, Den Beanana Royal. etc.

Dark Colours:Den. Blue Violetta x Poyck, Den. Bermis Ruby , Den. New
Blue Charm, Den. Blue Charm x Burana Dark Blue, Den. Gentle Fragrance,
etc.

Multi Colours:Majority of Dendrobiums are double colours with lip

differently coloured and the beauty is with the contrasting lip colour. Pink
andWhite,White and Violet, White and Red, Yellow and Red, Greenish
white and Maroon, light blue and
dark,Etc.Popularvarietiesare:Den.Yellowbutterflyandyellowbomb,
Den.Nappon star bright, Den. Ekapol panda, Den. Sonia varieties, Den.
Pop Eye, Den.Heangbeauty,Den.MadamVipar,Den.Rinnappa,
Den.BuranaJadeRed Lip. etc.

Striped: Den. Strippo Stripe, Den. Candy Strip and its numerous crosses,
Den. CompactumPink Strip, Den. Burana Strip, Den. Aeridang Green x
Burana Strip, etc. and many new colour combinations are coming
regularly.
10
Methodof Cultivation
According to the growing environment, Dendrobiums and oncidiums are to
be grown under shadenetor greenhouses,inpotsandpotsarrangedover
elevatedshelvesis the usual practice. Here again sufficient space should
be provided between shelves. If the shelves are costly strong roof
structure can be made and all the pots can be hung fromthe top. This will
ensuresufficient area also.Fertilizing theplantsregularly and provisions for
sprayingon the plants and to apply insecticide and fungicide etc should be
made. It is better to have sorting and packing shed nearby. However, it
depends on the variety of plant and the area of cultivation and size of the
farm. For this project, stall/ benches are to be made and proper watering
system would be installed.

ClimateRequirement&WaterRequirements

- Temperature: -Minimum150C&Maximum330C.
- Humidity:-60–80%
- Waterqualityisalsoimportant,theelectricalconductivityshouldbelessthan
0.5ms/cm

Many people make the mistake of assuming that since orchids are native
to tropical rainforests, they must be watered several times a week.
Unfortunately, watering this frequentlywill kill the roots of any orchidin
short order.The general ruleof thumb for orchids grown in the home is to
water every 5 to 12 days, depending on the type of orchid, the
temperature the plant is grown in, and the time of year. During the warm
summer months when days are long, more frequent watering is required
than in the cooler, shorter days of winter. There are three basic types of
orchids, as far as watering is concerned - those that should be kept evenly
moist at all times; thosethat should be allowed to nearly dry out between
watering, except when in active growth; and those that should always be
allowed to dry out a bit between watering. The guidelines below list the
major varieties of orchid in each type. Dendrobiums variety to keep
evenly moist during active growth, allowed to dry out between watering
when not.
11
OrchidShadeNet(PolyHouse)

The shade house for the horticulture of Dendrobium hasflat roofs. Net with
a widthof 4 metres is used. There are two tiers of roofs, one higher above
the other, to ensure adequate ventilation. The distance between the upper
and the lower roof is about20 – 30cm.Thenetsoftheupper andthelower tier
shouldoverlapeachother by about 25 – 30 cm. The piles for the structure
of the shade house can be made of concrete or steel. The concrete piles
should have a thickness of 3.5 x3.5 inch and a height of 3.5 m. from the
ground. The upper ends have a hole drilled through for fastening slings.
Pilesalongthe edge of the shade house should havea thickness of 5 x 5
inch. Along the edge of the net small wire is used to be tied to the steel
pipes. The net should be placed at the sides of the shade house at an
angle of 45 degrees to serve as a protection against the sun and winds.
The net should be placed at the sides of the shade house at an angle of 45
degrees to serve as a protection against the sun and winds. The slings at
the sides hold between the piles along the edge of the shade house and
the foundation posts anchored in the ground. The slings at the sides hold
between the piles along the edge of the shade house and the foundation
posts anchored in the ground. The slings at the sides hold between the
piles along the edge of the shade house and the foundation posts
anchored in the ground. The feature of nets used as protection against the
sun and winds seen from the side.

BenchedforCultivation

Formakingthestagestoplacetheorchids,concretepileswithathicknessof1.5x
1.5 inch are used. The piles of the stages for placing the orchids rise
above the groundabout60to70cm.Thestageis1.20m wideandthewidth
betweentwopiles is 80cm. 1.20-metre-long concrete beams are placed
between two piles. The way of how to place concrete beams on the
stages. When not using concrete beams, steel pipes will do the job quite
as well. The laying of water pipes in the shadehouse saves one from
dragging the hose for long distances. The branching of the water
pipeintovarious directionsmakes connectingthehoseandwatering the
plants more convenient.
12
PLANTINGMEDIA

Coconut blocks used for planting Dendrobiums. Every time when doing
the planting the stems shouldbe erected completely vertically.Little
bamboo sticks thatarestuck in the coconut blocks may be attached to the
orchid stems to help keep them in position. Plants of a height of 10 to 15
cm only just planted in coconut blocks.
Dendrobiumthatwereplantedabout6 -7monthsago.
Insecticidesorfungicidescan be mixed together and should be applied by
spraying once every 7 to 10 days between 4 pm and 5 pm on a fine day.
Fertilizer should be sprayed in the morning once every 7 to 10 days.
During heavy rainfall fertilizer should not be used. It also should never be
mixed with insecticides or fungicides.
13
Orchids attract pollinators for reproduction by several ingenious methods:
scent, mimicry and stealth. Orchids with sweet scents usually attract
bees; those with a rancid smell lure flies. The orchid can also draw
pollinators through visual mimicry, imitating insects including bees and
butterflies with the patterns on its petals. A third technique is stealth. The
slipper orchid lures a prospective pollinator to the edge ofits slippery
pouch, and the insect falls in. When it finds the single exit, it brushes
against the pollinia. Some orchids are pollinated by crawling insects, and
thus have long petals that brush the ground. And insects alone do not
pollinate orchids—small mammals, hummingbirds, bats and the wind also
contribute to the survival of the species. For centuries, the orchid has
been a symbol of love, luxury and beauty. To theearlyGreeks,the orchid
representedvirility,and the Chinese called it "theplant
14
of the king's fragrance." During the Middle Ages, the orchid was
considered an aphrodisiac and was used in love potions. Serious orchid
collecting began in the18th century, but because of their rarity at thetime,
only a fewbotanists and wealthy amateurs could enjoy them. In 1818,
William Cattley became the first person to bloom an orchid (the Cattleya,
top photo), an event that changed the flower world forever. Forests were
stripped of millions of orchids, putting many on endangered species lists.
A single orchid sold for thousands of dollars. This practice has since been
banned, and species are now bred and cultivated specifically for sales.
What will the future bring for Orchidaceae? Its greatest challenges are
now thoseimposed by Man. Will our environmental blockades prove
overwhelming? Or will the orchid's resilience,testedover
millennia,outlastevenourown? In spite of the obstaclestoits survival, the
orchid will retain its elegance and prehistoric mystery in the minds of all
admirers.

Sunlight
Light is a key factor in growing healthy orchids. Direct sunlight may cause
plants to burn, and too little light will prevent plants from flowering. An
ideal location is behind curtains or window blinds. If you receive your plant
by mail, expose it to light gradually in stages over a period of several
weeks. Leaf color is a good indicator of the amount of light a plant is
receiving. Orchids should have bright green, healthy leaves. Dark green
leaves indicate that a plant is getting insufficient light, and yellowish-
green or red leaves indicate that a plant is getting too much light. If you
suspect a plant is exposed to too much light, feel the leaves. If they feel
noticeably warmer than the surrounding air, move the plant to a location
with less intense brightness. Low light, Warm growing orchids enjoy a north
or an east, protected west or shaded south windows of the home.
Standard household temperatures are adequate. Orchids that are
classified as low light, warm growing are: Paphiopedilum or Lady Slipper,
Phalaenopsis and Oncidium. Moderate to high light, Warm growing orchids.
These orchids like a lot of light and warm householdtemperatures. They
thrive in a west or south window. From early May to late September, you
should watch light levels in south windows toavoid burning; you may have
to move your orchid away from the window or place them behind a sheer
curtaintodecreaselightintensity.Theseorchidsliketodrybetweenwatering.

15
Orchids that are classified as moderate to high ligh are: Cattleya,
Dendrobium, and Vanda.

The IdealTemperature
To produce beautiful, long-lasting blooms, orchids must produce energy in
the form of carbohydrates during the day when the temperature is high
and store that energy at night when the temperature drops. This
temperature fluctuation is necessary for orchids to bloom. Without a day-
night fluctuation of 10-15 degrees Fahrenheit, the plants will grow plenty
of healthy foliage but may stubbornly refuse to flower. A night
temperature of 60-62 degreesF isideal foroptimumgrowth, but
temperatures aslow as 55 degrees F will not harm your plant. Daytime
temperatures should range between 70 and 80 degrees F. Temperatures
as high as 90-95 degrees F for short periods will cause no harm, however,
as long as proper humidity and air circulation are maintained.

THINGS TO CONSIDER: In the world of the orchid, temperature, light and

humidity work in conjunction with one another, and unless a harmonious
relationship is achieved between them, optimum growth is not possible. In
instances of low humidity, high temperatures can be dangerous; in the
case of too much atmospheric moisture, the effects of low temperatures
can be over-emphasized. A widely held misconception is that all tropical
orchids need extremely high temperatures to survive. This is not
altogether true, and to subject them to such treatment can be disastrous.
In the very early days of orchid cultivation, many failures were due to
growing orchids in the excessive temperatures of a "stove" house.

OrchidLoveHumidity
The ideal daytime humidity for orchidsis 50% to 70%. During the summer,
when the days are warm and dry, humidity can be increased by placing
plants in a shallowdish or tray containing pebbles and water. Be sure to
keep the water just below the tops of the pebbles. Never let water touch
the bottom of the pot; capillary action will expose the roots to too much
water, causing them to deteriorate. To maintain the quality of water in the
tray, remove the pebbles every 2 or 3 months and wash them
inaweakbleachsolutiontoremoveaccumulatedsaltsandalgae.Donotaddblea
ch

16
or algaecide to water in the tray when it is in use. You can also group your
plants togetherina singleevaporationtraytocreatea humid microclimate
and an attractive display. Just don't place them so close together that air
circulation is restricted.
AS A GENERAL RULE: Again, it must be stressed that both temperature
and light should be taken into consideration when deciding to increase
humidity. Any form of watering,dampingdown or spraying shouldnot
beperformed in thelate afternoonor evening. Although some growers
obtain good results with this method, Beautiful Orchids recommends that
beginners avoid the practice. The falling temperatures toward the end of
the day can cause unnecessary condensation if highly humid
conditionsareinduced; plants will thenbecome covered with afilmof water
droplets, which can lead to rotting.

AirMovement:Ventilation
In the wild, gentle continual breezes along theleafy canopy of the rain
forest are vital for the survival of orchids and other air plants. Air
movement acts as preventive medicine for orchids. It helps evaporate
stagnant water, trapped during watering, where fungi and bacteria breed.
Without ventilation or fresh circulating air, orchids eventually die from rot,
lack of a continual carbon dioxide source, or infection. Ventilation also
helps orchids tolerate intense light without getting burnt leaves. You can
easily improve air movement in your home so orchids grow happily.
During the summer, when temperatures are high, open windows to allow
fresh air to come inside. And when wintertime comes, you can use an
ordinary oscillating fan to mimic the gentle breezes in the leafy canopy of
a tropical forest. It is important to occasionally change the direction of the
airflow so the area does not dry out.

WateringOrchid

Always water early in the day so that your orchids dry out by nighttime.
The proper frequency of watering will depend on the climatic conditions
where you live. In general, water once a week during the winter and twice
a week when the weather turns warm and dry. The size of your orchid
container also helps determine howoften you need to water, regardless of
climate conditions. Typically, a 6-inch pot needs water every 7 days and a
4-inch pot needs water every 5 to 6 days. The type ofpottingmedium
being usedcanalsoaffect yourplant'swaterrequirements.Bark

17
has a tendency to dry out more rapidly than sphagnum moss, for instance.
It is important to remember, however, that even when the surface of your
pot is dry, the rootareamayremain moist.Pokeyour fingeror a regular
woodenpencil aninchinto the pot; if it feels moist to the touch or if the
pencil looks moist, do not add additional water. The potting mediumshould
always be damp, but not soggy—neither should it be allowed to get
extremely dry. The quality of water used, whether for spraying or
watering, is of great importance. Since tap water has often been
chemically treated, generally with chlorine, it should be used with caution.
The best water for orchids is undoubtedly rainwater. Rainwater, as it
passes through the air, dissolves and absorbs many substances such as
dust, pollen and other organic matter. This enriched rainwater contributes
to the nourishment of the plant. THINGS TO CONSIDER:
Thetemperatureofthewaterisalsoimportant.Ifthewater temperature and the
surrounding air temperature are equal, no harm will result, and slight
differenceseither waycanbetoleratedbyhealthyplants.Fatal orlong-
termdamage, not easily discernible at first, can result from using water
that is too cold.

Orchid Food

In their native habitat, orchids scavenge nutrients from whatever happens

to be nearby: decomposing leaves, bird or animal droppings, or minerals
borne in rainwater. You can help your orchid to grow faster and bloom
sooner by feedingit the right fertilizers. It requires fertilizer that contain
nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), along with trace
elements such as iron. Potassium (K) is mainly responsible for the control
of flower, and fruit development. Phosphorous (P) for flower production,
and Nitrogen (N) for healthy vegetative growth. The amount of feeding
depends on the plant concerned, the time of year and general health of
the plant. Investigations have shown that feeding should begin with more
Nitrogen just when the new shoots are showing, more Phosphorous and
Potassium being necessary towards the end of the season. Orchids
growing in bark need more nitrogen than either phosphorus or potassium
(in proportions of 30-10-10). This is because the barkisdecayed bybacteria
thatuse alarge amount of nitrogen,leaving
verylittlefortheplant.Therefore,themostimportantsteptoremember
whenfeeding your orchid is to correctly identify the type of fertilizer one
should be using. As we know, Sikkim is a organic State and we cannot use
chemical fertilizer.Though,

18
organic fertilizer is available in the market as well as sufficient availability
of manure at promoter’s farm.

Re-potting Orchid Plants

Each orchid genus has different requirements for potting media. It is very
importantto have the correct medium for each type of orchid, depending
on whether it is terrestrial or epiphytic—tree dwelling. Growing media
commonly include fir bark, coconut husk, sphagnum moss, tree fern fibers
and perlite, and frequently a mixture of two or three of these materials. All
orchidspottedin a typical bark mediumneed to be repotted every 18 to 24
months, depending on the needs of the individual plant. The primary
purpose of repotting is to provide fresh media, not necessarily a larger
pot, but pot size should be selected according to the size of the root mass.
Orchids like to be a little tight in their pots. Orchids transferred to overly
large pots tend to concentrate their energy on root growth and may not
show new growth or foliage for several months. Orchids may be potted in
plastic, clay or decorator pots, and thetype of pot selected may influence
watering frequency; plants in clay pots will need more frequent watering,
as they will dry out a little faster. Always select pots with drainage holes;
orchid roots in contact with standing water will rot and die, killing the
plant. Media in the center of larger pots may remain wet for long periods
andbecome an unhealthy environment for roots. This can be avoided by
placing pieces of broken terra cotta in the bottomof the pot. A smaller pot
inverted into a larger one can also help with drainage and aeration, with
the roots of the plant drapedover and around the smaller pot. Some
orchids, such as Phalaenopsis, have roots capable of photosynthesis. For
these plants, clear pots have become popular, as they allowlight to get to
the roots. Orchids should not be repotted without a compelling reason. If,
for example, aeration of the potting materials is poor because of
decomposition, it must be replaced. Care must be taken to ensure that
new growths and shoots arenot overlapping the rimof the pot—large,
neglected plants that have been potted for a long time are notoriously
difficult to handle, and it is easy to break off new shoots androots.
But,whenin doubt,putitofffor anotheryear!ANNUALRE-POTTING:
Dendrobium
19
Blooming
Each genus of orchid has different requirements for re-blooming. Most
commercial varieties are very simple to re-bloom. Dendrobiumbloomon
mature new growth and requirea changeof fertilizer to a phosphorus-rich,
blossom-booster formula, such as 20-20-20. Knowledge of watering,
temperature and fertilizer requirements for each genus is necessary for
successful re-blooming year after year. To successfully re- bloom the
plant, type of orchids is important.

PestandPesticide
Snails and slugs often hide in the potting media where they chewon
youngroot tips; they also come out at night to chew on the leaves and
stems. There are several insect pests that are common: Aphids (small
sucking insects) and thrips (small chewing insects) attack tender new
growth, flowers and buds. Scale insects form a brown or black crust on
leaves and stems. Mealybugs also attack the leaves and stems forming a
white cottony mass. Consult a local garden center for products to control
these pests.

Market& Demand
Indian exports of Floriculture produce had gained a momentum during
recent years. India's floriculture export basket comprises fresh cut flowers
like roses, Carnations. Orchids, Anthuriums, Planting Materials and other
live plants besides a significant contribution from dry flowers. The USA is
the largest importer of Indian floricultural produce and dry flowers,
followed by Netherlands, Germany, Japan, U.K.. Italy, France, Australia and
Singapore.

lndian floriculture industry has gone through two distinct phases. The first
phase starting from 1991-1997 was a learning phase where a high rate of
dependency, on imported technology, medium, auction marketingand
buyback systems, was visible. The second phase starts from 1997 to date
is characterized by remoulding the adopted technology to suit to the
Indian needs, venturing into direct marketing, popularization of scientific
methods of cultivation and marketing techniques, good export growth,
value realizations, synchronization of product and marketingstrategies
and aggressive efforts to capture a high market share in the international
market.

20
The global floriculture trade has been expanding on an average rate of 15
per cent per annum, whereas in India the annual growth rate is estimated
to fluctuate around 7 to 8 per cent.

In Sikkim, orchid is a cash crop and demand is very high. Exporters

directlyapproach the cultivator and lift the entire cut flower whatever is
cultivated. No formal logistics for marketing of orchid is required for the
cultivator. Following is the details of exporter/ customers;

2. AREAOFOPERATION

Most places of Sikkim are suitable for orchid cultivation and needs 4500 to
5000 fts
altitude.Theproposedlocationislocatedat4500feetaltitudeatSalghari,Joretha
ng, South Sikkim. It is a model project to boost orchid harvesting in
Sikkim. The project covers more than one acre land and poly house would
be spread over 3000 square meters.

3. AIMS& OBJECTIVES

To communicate the latest knowledge to the farmers through the

principles of “Teaching by learning and Learning by Doing”. As we know,
export share of India in cut floor is below 1%, Orchid is one of the best
choices to increase our export.

4. PROBLEMSTOADDRESS ANDSTRETAGY
In spite of having access to abundant natural resources the fringe areas
remain socio-economically under developed. It is primarily because there
are a number of constraints which are responsible for the present state of
low accessibility to natural resources. The main problem is categorised as
under;
- Storage
- Market and Marketing of produced orchid

Strategy – In proposed appraisal of orchid harvesting in Sikkim, cold

storage is provided to cope with the storage problem and market for all
orchid producer in the State of Sikkim.

21
 5. TARGET BENEFICIERIES
The target beneficiaries are primarily the orchid producers of Sikkim and
publicat large who would get the employment in orchid cultivation.

6. FINANCE

Cost Outlay

COMMERCIAL HORTICULTURE DEVELOPMENT UNIT

(ORCHID FARMING)
SALGHARI, NAMCHI SIKKIM PROMOTED BY : JAGRITI
SELF HELP GROUP

COST OF PROJECT & MEANS OF FINANCE:

(Rs.in Lacs)
A. COST OF PROJECT: Cost to be Cost already Total
incurred Incurred
1. Land Development 29.75 0.00 29.75
2. Building & Civil Works 16.76 0.00 16.76
3. Plant & Machinery 2.60 0.00 2.60
4. Cultivation Expenses 67.00 0.00 67.00
5. Irrigation System 12.20 0.00 12.20
6. Poly House 25.50 0.00 25.50
7. Bed Preparation 27.24 0.00 27.24
8. Cold Room Installation 120.00 0.00 120.00
301.05 0.00 301.05

MeansofFinancing : % age
STATE CONTRIBUTION 30.10 10.00
CENTRE CONTRIBUTION 270.95 90.00
301.05

22
 Profitability Statement
(Rs.Inlacs)
PARTICULARS: YR.1 Yr.2 Yr.3 Yr.4 Yr.5 Yr.6 Yr.7 Yr.8

1.GROSSRECEIPTS 0.00 115.20 120.96 126.72 133.44 140.16 146.88 154.5

6
2. OPERATING
EXPENCES:
1.44 1.58 1.66 1.74 1.83 1.92 2.02
Salary/Wages
6.50 6.84 7.59 7.98 8.40 8.86 9.36
Expences

0.00 7.96 8.42 9.25 9.72 10.23 10.78 11.38

3.GROSSPROFIT 0.00 107.24 112.54 117.47 123.72 129.93 136.10 143.1
8
4.FINANCIAL
CHARGES 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
InterestonTermLoan

5. DEPRECIATION 0.00 36.35 34.06 32.10 30.44 15.53 14.33 13.3

1
6.OPERATING 0.00 70.89 78.48 85.37 93.28 114.40 121.77 129.8
PROFIT 7
7.AMOIRTISED 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
EXPENCES

8.PROFITBEFORE 0.00 70.89 78.48 85.37 93.28 114.40 121.77 129.8

TAX 7

9.TAXATION 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

10.PROFITAFTER 0.00 70.89 78.48 85.37 93.28 114.40 121.77 129.8
TAX 7
CASHACCRUALS:

ProfitAfterTax 0.00 70.89 78.48 85.37 93.28 114.40 121.77 129.8

7
Add:Depreciation 0.00 36.35 34.06 32.10 30.44 15.53 14.33 13.3
1
Add:Amortised 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Expences
0.00 107.24 112.54 117.47 123.72 129.93 136.10 143.18

23
 Balance Sheet
(Rs.Inlacs)
LIABILITIES Year–1 Year-2 Year-3 Year-4 Year-5 Year-6 Year-7 Year-8

CAPITAL 301.05 301.05 301.05 301.05 301.05 301.05 301.05 301.0

5
RESERVE& 0.00 70.89 149.37 234.74 328.02 442.42 564.19 694.0
SURPLUS 6

TERMLOAN 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

301.05 371.94 450.42 535.79 629.07 743.47 865.24 995.1

1

GrossBlock 301.05 301.05 264.70 230.64 198.54 168.10 152.57 138.2

4
Less - 0.00 36.35 34.06 32.10 30.44 15.53 14.3 13.31
Depreciation 3

NetBlock 301.05 264.70 230.64 198.54 168.10 152.57 138.24 124.9

3
Preoperative 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Expenses

WorkingCapital 0.00 1.33 1.40 1.54 1.62 1.71 1.80 1.90

CASH/BANK 0.00 105.91 218.38 335.71 459.35 589.19 725.20 868.2

8
301.05 371.94 450.42 435.79 629.07 743.47 865.24 995.11

Cash Flow Statement

(Rs.Inlacs)
A.SOURCESOFFUN Imp.Per. Yr.1 Yr.2 Yr.3 Yr.4 Yr.5 Yr.6 Yr.7 Yr.8
DS

1.ProfitBeforeTax 0.00 0.00 70.8 78.48 85.3 93.2 114.40 121.77 129.87
withInterestadded 9 7 8
back
2.CapitalIntroduced 301.05 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
3.IncreaseinTermLo 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
an
4.Depreciation 0.00 0.00 36.3 34.06 32.1 30.4 15.53 14.33 13.31
5 0 4
5.PreoperativeExp. 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
W/Off
301.05 0.00 107.24 112.54 117.47 123.72 129.93 136.10 143.18

24
 APPLICATIONOF Imp.Per. Yr.1 Yr.2 Yr.3 Yr.4 Yr.5 Yr.6 Yr.7 Yr.8
FUND
1.CapitalExp.Of 301.05 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
theProject

2.Preoperative Exp. 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
3.
4.DecreaseinTermL 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
oan

5.InterestonTerm 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Loan
6.Taxation 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00

IncreaseinW. 0.00 0.00 1.33 0.07 0.14 0.08 0.09 0.09 0.10
Capital
301.05 0.00 1.33 0.07 0.14 0.08 0.09 0.06 0.10

OPENING 0.00 0.00 0.00 105.91 218.38 335.71 459.35 589.19 725.20
CASH/BANK
SURPLUS/DEFICIT 0.00 0.00 105.91 112.47 117.33 123.64 129.84 136.01 143.08

CLOSING 0.00 0.00 105.91 218.38 335.71 459.35 589.19 725.20 868.28
CASH/BANK

Statement Showing Cultivation Expenses

Particulars Yr-1 Yr-2 Yr-3 Yr-4 Yr-5 Yr-6 Yr-7 Yr-8
No.ofplants(16 48000
nos. X 3000
sqm.)
Mortality@5% 2400
Totalnoofplant 50400
required
Planting 60.48
materials -
Unitcost-
Rs.
120/-
(Rs.InLakhs)
Manure(Bio 0.80 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20
- fertilizer)
Plantprotecti 0.40 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10 0.10
on pesticide
Bamboosuppo 1.20 0.03 0.03 0.03 0.03 0.03 0.03 0.03
rt for staking
bearing plants
includingtying
Total 2.40 0.33 0.33 0.33 0.33 0.33 0.33 0.33

Landprepar 1.80 -- --- 0.40 0.40 0.40 0.40 0.40

ation,
layout &
formationofside
drains
Application 0.40 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20
of bio-
fertilizers,
pesticides,et
c.
Pruning/ 1.80 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90 0.90
Training
&Intercultu
re
Irrigation 0.12 0.13 0.15 0.16 0.18 0.19 0.2 0.23
Harvesting -- 1.92 1.92 1.92 1.92 1.92 1.92 1.92
&packing(Re.2/-

25
/plant)
SubTotal(III) 4.12 3.15 3.17 3.58 3.60 3.61 3.63 3.65

GrandTotal 67.00 3.48 3.50 3.91 3.93 3.94 3.96 3.98

StatementshowingRevenueGeneration
Year Yr-1 Yr-2 Yr-3 Yr-4 Yr-5 Yr-6 Yr-7 Yr-8
No.of 48000 48000 48000 48000 48000 48000 48000 48000
Plant
Area 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
(300
0
Sqm)
No.of 48000 48000 48000 48000 48000 48000 48000 48000
Plant
No. of 0 96000 96000 96000 96000 96000 96000 96000
Flower
Production

Rate(in 0 120 126 132 139 146 153 161

Rs.)
G.Income 0 15200000 12096000 12672000 13344000 14016000 14688000 15456000
(In Rs.)
G.Income 0 115.20 120.96 126.72 133.44 140.16 146.88 154.56
(In Lacs)
Note: Seeding Plant is 6 months old. And it takes further 18 months for
flowering. However, promoter would manage plants of 1 years old, it
starts flowering from 2ndyear.

7. TIME FRAME/PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION

The proposed project with started from zero base and will take one year
for commercial production of the cut flower (orchid).

8. LAND & LAND ALLOCATION

Land is recorded in the name of the promoter JAGRITI SHG and the details
is as under;

Village/ area – SALGHARI

Revenue Block – Jorethang

District–Namchi (South

Sikkim) Khatiyan No. – 235

& 163
Plot no. 439, 511,226,439

Area – 1.0378 Acres

26
Item to be produce– Orchid (in protected area)

9. ABOUT PROMOTER

Name of the Applicant : JAGRITI, SELF HELP GROUP

Address :SALGHARI, NAMCHI
Jorethang, Namchi,
Sikkim - 737126

Proposed Project to be set-up :Horticulture Unit (Orchid) under

RKVY Constitution : Proprietorship
Location of the project :SALGHARI, NAMCHI South Sikkim
Size of the Project : Above one acre
Employment Potential :More than 10 Persons
Power Load Requirement :5KVA

10.PROJECT PREPARED BY
Project is prepared by the promoter JAGRITI SHG. The same is also
assisted by M/s Mishel Chandak & Co. (Chartered Accountants), Norbula
Complex, M. G. Marg, Gangtok, East Sikkim – 737101.

27
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