Transvaluate of genotype × environment × season interaction of agronomic traits and bioactive compounds of Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal in the Deccan plateau region

Abstract

The exegesis of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera L.) types related to various seasons was the focus of the current investigation. A field study was conducted at the CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants experimental field in Hyderabad, India, using a factorial randomized block design with three replicates over two years and four seasons (Kharif and Rabi). The all three factors were made up of with two years (2020–2021 and 2021–2022), eight varieties (Red berry, JA-134, Poshita, CIMAP-Pratap, CIMAP-Chetak, NMITLI-118, NMITLI-101, CIM-Pushti), and two seasons (Kharif and Rabi) respectively. Plant growth indices (plant height, number of branches plant–1), phenological parameters (day to flower initiation and days to root harvest), yield attributes (main root length, root diameter, dry root yield hectare–1, and seed yield hectare–1) quality traits (starch content, fiber content, starch fiber ratio, and total alkaloid estimation) were evaluated. Research findings contribute to understanding of how seasons influence the characteristics of ashwagandha cultivars and their overall agronomic performance. Understanding how environmental factors, such as seasons, affect plant growth and development is crucial for optimizing agricultural practices and improving crop yields. The results obtained in this study can be used to select specific varieties for specific seasonal conditions and identify varieties that perform better in both states. Irrespective of the variety used, both seasons (Kharif and Rabi) produce higher dry root yield per hectare, and the rabi season yields superior results in terms of starch fiber ratio and total alkaloid content in ashwagandha. CIM-Pushti, NMITLI-101, and Poshita achieved good results concerning yield and quality aspects in the Kharif season. CIM-Pushti, NMITLI-101, and CIMAP-Pratap performed admirably during the Rabi season. CIM-Pushti and NMITLI-101 provide superior agronomic performance in both seasons (Kharif and Rabi).