Ecological modelling of potential Isparta rosa areas (Rosa Damascena Mill.)

This study covers 8714 km2 area where produced about 80% of oil rose in Isparta, Turkey. The study aimed to determine the most ideal areas for oil-rose cultivation on ecological principles in the region. For this purpose, rose cultivated parcels in the area were determined and interrelated together the sub-criteria with soil, topographic and climate and ecological parameters that are essential in the cultivation of rose. The weights of each main and sub-criteria were determined by Analytical Hierarchy Process analysis. Weighted overlay in Geographic Information Systems was performed for total of 14 criteria including 6 climate, 3 topography, and 5 soil and potential rose production areas were spatially determined in rainfall and irrigated areas. With this study, rose cultivation is practiced in an area about 2975 hectares in Isparta province. It was concluded that 12.12 % (105637 ha) of Isparta's land was classified as "very suitable" for rose cultivation. It also determined that the rose cultivation requirements were: 800-1400 m altitude, a minimum of 240 mm rainfall and above maximum 28 oC, minimum 1.4-3.7 oC and an average no lower than 13 oC temperature in March-June. An average relative humidity of 55-65 and 55-60 % in March-April and May-June were directly related to yield quality. The slope was not a selective feature, it was seen that southern aspects were preferred. It was observed that medium-fine textured soils were preferred over sandy soils. Physical assessment revealed that the areas suitable for Isparta rose cultivation were significantly restricted by the socio-economic structure of the province. Key Words: Rose oil, Rosa damascena Mill., Remote sensing and GIS, AHP, Weighted overlay analysis, Ecological modelling