Marigolds

Fields of marigolds can be seen across Bali during the dry season as farmers take advantage of the constant demand for flowers to be used for religious offerings, ceremonies and the ubiquitous welcome garlands.

Marigolds offer an alternative income to farmers when there is insufficient rain to plant rice. Bright colorful marigold flowers are perfect for warming joyful gatherings and events. Their carnation-like flowers have made the bloom popular among gardeners. In Bali, marigolds are called gumitir and are usually used for offerings, in temples and for home decorations. In spite of their sparkling blooms, the flowers can have a pungent odor.

The blooms are used in Balinese Hindu daily offerings and therefore demand is high and sustainable. One plant may produce dozens of blooms. Marigold cultivation is considered a promising farming activity. The harvest period ranges from 40 to 45 days. To plant and cultivate 1000 seeds, a farmer needs around Rp 1.8 million (R1800-00) Each harvest season, he could hope to reap around Rp 3 to Rp 4 (R3000-00 to R4000-00)Read more