Influence of Soil Type on the Growth Parameters, Essential Oil Yield and Biochemical Contents of Mentha arvensis L.

Abstract

Mentha arvensis is a rich source of menthol that is used in pharmaceutical, flavouring and cosmetic industries. Environmental conditions including soil type are important factors affecting plant growth and yield. Although mentha is adapted to various habitats but to get the maximum yield it is important to find out the requisite soil type. Therefore, the present study was conducted in pots to findout the soil type which favours maximum growth and oil yield of M. arvensis. Significant difference in plant growth parameters were observed between the plants grown in different soil types (P< 0.01). The plants grown in sandy clay soil showed maximum plant growth and biochemical content. The highest oil yield was recorded in plants grown in sandy clay soil (0.78 ml/100g fresh herb). There was a significant difference (P< 0.01) in oil yield per plant between the plants grown in sandy clay (1.18 ml), sandy clay loam (1.20 ml) and sandy loam soil (0.85 ml),whereas non-significant difference was observed between sandy loam and loamy sand (0.81 ml). The present study indicates that among all tested soils, sandy clay soil supports the highest growth and oil yield of M. arvensis. This information will be helpful for farmers in selecting soil for the cultivation of M. arvensis.