Archives of Current Research International

Floriculture has emerged as a high-value agricultural enterprise in Karnataka, particularly in peri-urban districts like Chikkaballapur, where proximity to Bengaluru ensures strong market demand. The present study examines the economic performance and marketing patterns of chrysanthemum and gladiolus growers in Chikkaballapur district. Primary data were collected from 120 farmers (60 chrysanthemum and 60 gladiolus growers) selected through simple random sampling from eight villages across Chikkaballapur and Shidlaghatta taluks. An ex-post facto research design was adopted and data were analyzed using percentages, means, benefit–cost ratio and yield gap estimation.

The results revealed that the total cost of cultivation was ₹1,53,424 per acre for chrysanthemum and ₹3,05,361 per acre for gladiolus. Chrysanthemum cultivation generated gross returns of ₹3,37,507 per acre with a benefit–cost ratio of 2.19, while gladiolus recorded substantially higher gross returns of ₹9,85,818 per acre and a benefit–cost ratio of 3.23, indicating superior profitability. Marketing analysis showed heavy dependence on intermediaries, limited adoption of grading, and absence of storage facilities for both crops. The study highlights the economic viability of floriculture in the district and emphasizes the need for improved production practices and efficient marketing systems to enhance farmers’ income.