Bulbs

Commercially tuberose is propagated by bulbs and division of bulbs. Selection of suitable bulbs is very important for successful cultivation. Boat shaped bulbs free from diseases of size 2-3 cm should be preferred for planting. Tuberose bulbs have a definite rest period after lifting them from soil. Dipping the bulbs in 4% solution of thiourea can break the resting period. About 1.25-1.5 lakh bulbs (800-900 kg) are required for planting one hectare.

Bulb Segments

Propagation through mature bulbs is expensive, therefore, multiplication of growing stock can be done by division of bulbs. Large sized bulbs having 2.1 cm or more in diameter are suitable for planting purpose. The bulbs are cut into 2 to 3 vertical sections, each containing a bud and part of the basal plate. These sections are treated with fungicide and planted vertically in a rooting medium with their tips just showing above the surface. A moderately warm temperature should be maintained. New bulblets along with roots develop from the basal plate. At this stage, bulblets are transferred to the ground.