Abstract
A field experiment was performed on spearmint (Mentha spicata L.) under different irrigation regimes in a hilly area of Southern Italy. Objectives of the study include evaluating the physiological and biometrical response of mint from plant establishment up to its complete maturation, as well as the yield composition in essential oil at two different dates. Increasing levels of water stress affected later developing leaves and plant’s water status and net photosynthesis (from the beginning of stress (DAT 63), while affecting negatively the biometric response very soon and significantly from 35 DAT. Photosynthesis limitation played a critical role from DAT 53 on, namely later, in the harvest period (DAT 35–70). Under severe water stress, crop restricted water losses by modulating stomatal closure and, at harvest, showing lowered mesophyll conductance. Irrigation treatments did not affect the concentration of organic compounds, while the yield of essential oils was negatively affected by water stress due to reduced crop growth, in terms of total and leaf biomass, leaf area index (LAI) and crop height.
Highlights
The medicinal and aromatic plants contain the chemical constituents which were first used by humans as medicines for various significant treatments, mind relaxing treatments for some patients, as flavoring agents for food and drink, and as mental stimulants for mystic interactions with super natural gods [1]
Spearmint (Mentha spicata L.) plays a crucial role, since international demand for mint essential oils increased in the past few years
Results of Polanski et al [63] were similar to ours, indicating that drought stress caused a significant reduction in all growth parameters and essential oil yield and percentage
Summary
The medicinal and aromatic plants contain the chemical constituents which were first used by humans as medicines for various significant treatments, mind relaxing treatments for some patients, as flavoring agents for food and drink, and as mental stimulants for mystic interactions with super natural gods [1]. Mint produces secondary metabolites applicable in different sectors, such as food, confectionery, and chocolate industries [4,5,6] food preservation [7], taste and aroma [6], cosmetic, confectionery, and pharmaceutical industry, as well as, for its essential oil. It is used for its insect-repellent properties, antibacterial and antifungal activities and as antioxidant agent [8]. Data were collected every 60 seconds, with 30 min output (Figure 1)
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