The effects of cold treatments on the growth and flowering characteristics of Allium robertianum Kolmann bulbs

The effects of preparing conditions-planting cold treated bulbs of Allium robertianum L. at 5 degrees C and 10 degrees C for 15, 30 and 60 day periods on the growth and flowering charecteristics of Allium robertianum L. bulbs were investigated at two different areas namely heated glasshouse and partially shaded field between November-July in years between 2002-2004. A. robertianum L. is an important endemic species to Antalya province of Turkey. The results indicated that cold treatments and their durations had significant effects on flower stem length, flower stem diameter and flowering time of the species. The best results were obtained from the bulbs stored at 10 degrees C for 30 day period in the heated glasshouse. However, the plants grown in partially shaded open field were better in leaf colour and plant vigor. The earliest flowering was observed from the bulbs stored at 5 degrees C for 60 days in the glasshouse.