Effect of different methods of potassium application on growth, flower yield and oil content of German chamomile (Matrcaria chamomilla L.) in relation to water deficit stress
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Date
2008
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Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana
Abstract
The present investigation was undertaken to study the effect of method of potassium application on growth, flower and oil yield of German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) in relation to water deficit stress conditions. Data on various morphological, physiological and biochemical aspects during development was collected at regular intervals starting from 35 days after transplanting. Compared to controls, water stress conditions did not affect plant height markedly, but increased root length and significantly decreased number of branches and yield of fresh and dry flowers. The accumulation of dry matter and it portioning to different plant parts was also reduced under conditions of stress. Water stress also reduced content of total soluble sugars, starch, total soluble proteins in leaves and roots, content of chlorophyll in leaves and oil in the dry flowers. On the contrary, water stress conditions increased content of total free amino acids and proline both in leaves and roots. Potassium treatments given as soil application and foliar spray improved various growth parameters, and yield of fresh and dry flowers both in normal and stressed plants. Potassium treatments also improved accumulation of total dry matter, content of chlorophyll and various reserves in leaves and roots, and percentage of oil yield obtained from dry flowers. Potassium treatments given as foliar spray were found more effective in improving various growth and biochemical characteristics.
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