Extended BBCH scale of Moringa oleifera Lam. and its implications for growing in Urban Food Forests

Abstract

The phenological studies of tree species is a potential tool to develop a keen observation for monitoring the gradual impact of climate change on biology of trees, manifested through variation in timing and duration of different phenological events in their life cycle. The documentation of these phenological growth stages reflect upon the implications for their responsiveness to seasonal variation in climate and potential utilization for the benefit of mankind. Pertaining to the immense significance of phenology, a study was conducted to document different growth and developmental stages in Moringa oleifera Lam. referencing to the BBCH scale (Biologische Bundesantalt, Bundessortenamt und Chemische Industrie), supplementing with significant Landmark stages (developed by the authors) under the subtropical conditions of Punjab state, India. The observation and the analysis of the growth stages in M. oleifera depicted asynchronous growth patterns exhibiting juvenile, vegetative and reproductive developmental stages within an individual tree canopy. These phenophases appeared simultaneously and were designated numerical values corresponding to principle growth stages (0–9) and secondary sub-stages (0–9) reflecting their relative intensity of occurrence. The novel landmark scale proposed for M. oleifera, defines the optimum stage(s) for its utilization such as tender leaves for culinary purpose; mature leaves for processing for manufacturing of fortified food products and herbal medicines; and immature pods for utilization in culinary preparations. The landmark stages proposed in M. oleifera reflect its immense significance for introducing as an edible tree species in Urban Food Forests as a source of nutrition besides offering other multi-functionalities of ecological, landscaping, esthetic and spiritual aspects.