Effect of Biostimulant Application on the Growth of Rose (Rosa spp.) Cut Flowers in Plateau State

The floriculture sub-sector in Nigeria, particularly the production of cut flowers, is increasingly recognized as a high-value horticultural enterprise with significant export and domestic market potential. Rose (Rosa spp.) is among the most commercially important cut flower crops globally, and biostimulants have recently gained attention as growth-enhancing inputs that improve crop quality without the environmental concerns associated with synthetic fertilizers. This study evaluates the effect of three biostimulants, seaweed extract, humic acid, and amino acid-based formulation, applied at two concentrations each, on the growth and cut flower quality of rose in Jos, Plateau State. A greenhouse experiment was conducted using a completely randomized design with three replications. Parameters measured include stem length, number of lateral shoots, days to bud emergence, flower diameter, and vase life post-harvest. Results indicate that seaweed extract applied at 3 ml/litre significantly increased stem length and vase life compared to all other treatments and the control. Amino acid-based biostimulant produced the highest number of lateral shoots. The study recommends seaweed extract as a primary biostimulant for improving rose cut flower quality in Plateau State's emerging floriculture industry. Keywords: biostimulants, rose, Rosa spp., cut flowers, Plateau State