Peculiarities of cultivation, plant protection and breeding for Polianthes tuberosa L. in Ukraine

Tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa L.) is one of the most important tropical ornamental bulbous flowering plants cultivated for the production of its long-lasting flower spikes. Due to its unique properties, tuberose has proven itself to be a valuable industrial crop. It has significant potential for the use of its essential oils and other secondary metabolites, as well as for cut and container flowers. Today, tuberose is cultivated in many countries around the world for obtaining planting material, cut flowers, and raw materials for the perfume, pharmaceutical, and food industries. In Ukraine, tuberose cultivation has not yet reached an industrial scale, although it has high commercial potential. The aim of our work was to analyze and highlight the main methods of tuberose growing, methods of protection against pests and pathogens in open and protected soils of Ukraine, and priority areas for selection. The scientific research uses methods of bibliographic and field research, historical method, methods of analogies, synthesis and analysis. The historical aspects of Polianthes tuberosa worldwide cultivation and use are analyzed. The perfumery, pharmacological, and nutritional value of tuberose and the prospects for its cultivation and use are described. The main agrotechnical measures contributing to the successful cultivation of this plant are highlighted, including: optimal planting times in different climatic zones of Ukraine for obtaining flower products; preventive measures for protecting plants against diseases and pests; specifics of soil selection, lighting, and irrigation regimes; as well as propagation and storage of planting material. Three types of tuberose varieties are characterized: Single type, Double type, and Semi-Double type. The classification and characteristics of tuberose varieties grown in Ukraine and priority areas of selection are presented. Key words: Polianthes tuberosa, bulbs, essential oils, cut flowers purpose, climate zones, pathogens, pests.