Physiological Characters of Vanilla Plant (Vanilla planifolia Andrew) in Various Types of Shade Trees

Abstract

Vanilla plants are CAM plants and are very sensitive to direct sunlight, so vanilla plants need shade plants to reduce the intensity of sunlight. Research on the physiological characteristics of vanilla plants on various types of shade trees was carried out to finding out the influence of types of shade trees on the physiological characteristics of vanilla plants. The research was conducted using a randomized completely block design with four groups. Planting was carried out using four types of shade plants, namely Gliricidia sepium, Syzygium aromaticums, Erythrina variegata and Leucaena leucocephala plants. To determine microclimate conditions, temperature, air humidity and sunlight intensity were observed three times a day (morning, afternoon and evening). Physiological observation parameters include content of chlorophyll A, chlorophyll B levels, total chlorophyll, proline, relative water content. The results of the research showed that temperature, air humidity and the intensity of sunlight received are different for each type of shade plant. Types of shade plants significantly influence content of chlorophyll A, chlorophyll B, total chlorophyll, proline and relative water content. The conclusion was the type of shade plant affects the microclimatic conditions of the vanilla plant, thereby influencing the physiological properties of the vanilla plant.