Effect of direct sowing and transplanting on seed yield of babchi (Psoralea corylifolia)

Abstract

Babchi (Psoralea corylifolia) has earned the name Kusthanasini as it is one of the best herbs used in the treatment of various skin disorders. It has been recognized since ancient times as panacea for dermatoses in Ayurveda. The seed is anthelmintic, antibacterial, astringent and diuretic. Research studies also indicated that Psoralea corylifolia significantly inhibits proliferation of sensitive and MDR cancer cells in vitro, psoralen and isopsoralen are responsible for the anticancer activity. The study was conducted to determine the effects of direct sowing and transplanting on seed yield of Babchi. The experiment was conducted at Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research Station, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, India, during 2012–13 to 2013–14. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with eight treatments (T1-Direct sowing 7.5 kg/ha, T2-Direct sowing 12.5 kg/ha, T3-Direct sowing 17.5 kg/ha, T4-Transplanting 45 x 30 cm, T5-Transplanting 50 x 45 cm, T6-Transplanting 45 x 60 cm, T7-Transplanting 60 x 30 cm, T8-Transplanting 60 x 60 cm) and replicated thrice. The results indicated that transplanting of babchi has given higher seed yield than direct sowing. Transplanting of Babchi at 45 x 30 cm has recorded maximum plant height and higher seed yield over other spacing treatments. Planting of Babchi at 60 x 60 cm recorded more number of branches per plant and racemes per plant. Direct sowing of seed at 7.5 kg/ha recorded lowest seed yield.