Madhya Pradesh has carved out a distinct identity in the field of floriculture, emerging as the third-largest flower-producing state in India. Out of the state’s total 27.71 lakh hectares under horticulture, 42,978 hectares are dedicated to flower cultivation. In the year 2024–25, farmers in the state produced 5.12 lakh metric tonnes of flowers — a record-breaking figure. The day is not far when Madhya Pradesh will lead the nation in floriculture.
Both area under flower cultivation and production increased
The rising interest among farmers in floriculture is evident from the steady growth in area and production. In 2021–22, the area under flower cultivation was 37,647 hectares, which increased to 42,976 hectares in 2024–25, with a corresponding rise of 86,294 tonnes in production.
Both the central and state governments are actively encouraging farmers to adopt cash crops to double their income and make agriculture a profitable venture. Even farmers with small landholdings — just one to three acres — are earning well through floriculture.
Flowers grown in state are also gaining popularity in global markets
The flowers grown in Madhya Pradesh are not only in high demand in Indian metro cities but are also gaining popularity in international markets. Roses from Guna district are now spreading their fragrance beyond Jaipur, Delhi, and Mumbai — reaching as far as Paris and London.
Floriculture attracting both educated youth and traditional farmers
Floriculture is attracting both educated youth and traditional farmers in rural areas. One such example is Smt. Laxmibai Kushwah of Barkheda Bodar Gram Panchayat, Bhopal, who has shifted from traditional crops like paddy, wheat, and soybean to growing roses, gerbera, and marigold, earning Rs 3 to Rs 4 lakh per month.
Marigold occupies the largest area followed by rose
The primary flowers cultivated in Madhya Pradesh include marigold, rose, chrysanthemum, gladiolus, tuberose, and medicinal flowers like isabgol, ashwagandha, safed musli, and coleus. Among these, marigold occupies the largest area, grown over 24,214 hectares, followed by rose (4,502 ha), chrysanthemum (1,709 ha), gladiolus (1,058 ha), and tuberose (263 ha). Other varieties are cultivated on 11,227 hectares. Per hectare productivity of flowers in Madhya Pradesh is 15.01 metric tonnes, which is considered exceptional in the floriculture sector.
This impressive productivity is attributed to the favourable climate, soil quality, and expanding irrigation facilities, alongside strong government support. In the year 2024–25, horticulture crops saw an expansion of 14,438 hectares, including a 5,329-hectare increase in flower cultivation.
Hi-tech floriculture nursery is being developed in Gwalior
In a major boost to the sector, a hi-tech floriculture nursery is being developed in Gwalior district with central government support and an investment of ₹13 crore. This facility is expected to be a game-changer for flower cultivation in Madhya Pradesh. The state is on its way to becoming the floriculture leader of India.