Impact of planting time and density on peppermint yield and quality.
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Effect of planting time and density on yield and quality of peppermint (mentha piperita l.) under su-tropical condition
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
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Original source:
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P.C Sharma, P.B Kanjilal
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Effect of planting time and density on yield and quality of peppermint (mentha piperita l.) under su-tropical condition
Year: 1999
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The study conducted by P.C. Sharma and P.B. Kanjilal investigates the effects of planting time and row spacing on the yield and quality of peppermint (Mentha piperita L.) under subtropical conditions. The research took place at the Regional Research Laboratory in Jorhat, Assam, during 1995 and 1996. The trial aimed to determine how different planting dates and spacing intervals could influence critical growth parameters such as herbage yield, oil yield, and menthol content, which is a significant component of peppermint oil. The findings are intended to provide valuable agronomic insights for enhancing commercial peppermint cultivation, particularly in regions like northeastern India, where its economic potential remains underutilized.
Effects of Planting Time on Peppermint Growth
One significant finding of the study is the impact of planting time on the growth of peppermint. The results demonstrated that planting on January 15 yielded the tallest plants (64.43 cm) with the highest number of branches (34.56) and a superior leaf stem ratio (1.42). In contrast, delayed planting led to reduced plant height, branch number, and overall yield, primarily due to less favorable climatic conditions and shorter vegetative growth periods. Additionally, the first harvest at the flowering stage produced the maximum oil yield of 1.20 kg/ha, compared to 30.26 kg/ha during the vegetative stage. This indicates that earlier planting significantly enhances both the quantity and quality of peppermint oil, with the menthol content remaining stable across different planting times.
Conclusion
The research underscores the importance of optimal planting times and spacing for maximizing peppermint yield and quality. Particularly, earlier planting dates resulted in better plant growth and higher herb yields. The study affirms that a row spacing of 45 cm is most effective for maximizing fresh herbage and oil yield while preventing competition for resources that could occur at wider or closer spacings. Overall, this study provides crucial agronomic guidance that can lead to improved practices in peppermint cultivation, promoting better yields and enhancing the economic viability of this important crop in India.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What are the key findings regarding planting time for peppermint?
The study found that planting peppermint on January 15 resulted in the highest herbage yield of 61.92 q/ha, indicating that earlier planting enhances growth due to favorable climate conditions.
How does row spacing affect peppermint yield and oil content?
Peppermint planted at a 45 cm row spacing achieved maximum herbage yield and oil yield (37.40 kg/ha). Closer or wider spacing led to competition for resources, reducing overall growth and yield.
What was the range of menthol content observed in the study?
The menthol content in peppermint oil remained steady between 71.0% to 72.3%, showing no significant variation due to planting time or row spacing.
What climatic conditions were present during the peppermint trials?
The trials took place in sub-tropical conditions with temperatures ranging from 11 to 28°C, 78% relative humidity, and annual precipitation of 1800 mm, providing a suitable environment for peppermint growth.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Impact of planting time and density on peppermint yield and quality.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Quality:
The term 'Quality' in this context refers to the characteristics of the peppermint essential oil produced, specifically the menthol content. It highlights the importance of not just the quantity of the yield but also the chemical composition and purity of the oil obtained from the Mentha Piperita plants.
2) Science (Scientific):
The term 'Science' reflects the systematic study of peppermint cultivation, particularly the agronomic practices concerning planting times and row spacing. The research employs scientific methods to analyze variables affecting plant growth and essential oil yield, illustrating the intersection of agriculture and scientific inquiry.
3) Discussion:
The 'Discussion' section summarizes the findings of the study and interprets their implications. It connects experimental results with existing literature, providing insights into the relationship between planting conditions and plant characteristics, reinforcing the necessity of adaptive methodologies in agricultural practices for optimal outcomes.
4) Sharman (Śarma, Sarmā, Sarma, Sharma, Śarman):
'Sharma' refers to one of the authors of the study, P.C. Sharma. As a contributor, his expertise in plant sciences and ecology is crucial to the research. His name represents the collaboration in academic research, sharing knowledge that advances understanding of peppermint cultivation.
5) Glass:
The term 'Glass' specifically relates to the Clevenger glass apparatus used for hydrodistillation. This equipment is vital for extracting the essential oil from peppermint, demonstrating the integration of precise laboratory tools in agricultural research, where methodology influences the quality and quantity of essential oil production.
6) Muni (Muṉi):
'Muni' references Muni Ram, a researcher whose findings are cited in the study. His previous work provides a foundational context for the research presented, emphasizing the collaborative nature of scientific research and the importance of building knowledge upon established studies.
7) Shri (Śri, Śrī, Śṝ, Sṛ, Sṝ):
The term 'Shri' denotes respect and formal acknowledgment for an individual, in this case, Shri A.K. Baruah. His assistance with GLC interpretation of oil emphasizes the collaborative effort in research, where various expertise contribute to the validity and depth of scientific findings.
8) Shand (Śaṇḍ, Sand):
'Sand' in this context relates to the soil texture of the experimental plots. It indicates that the soil composition is vital for plant growth, affecting drainage and nutrient retention. Understanding soil characteristics is crucial in agronomy for optimizing cultivation practices based on environmental conditions.
9) Soil:
The term 'Soil' encompasses the underlying material in which the peppermint is cultivated. It plays a critical role in determining the plant's growth potential, nutrient availability, and overall health. Knowledge of soil composition informs agronomic practices to enhance yield and essential oil extraction efficiency.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Impact of planting time and density on peppermint yield and quality.’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Essential oil, Oil yield, Control Experiment, Randomized block design, Herbage yield.
Concepts being referred in other categories, contexts and sources.