Variation in biomass production of sunflower (Helianthus annuus) plants under the influence of Lemongrass (Cymbopogon erectus) extract

Abstract

Plant extract is being used for crop yield and biomass enhancement since long time. Using plants extract for the enhancement of growth of other plant is a worthwhile strategy so as to enhance crop yield and crop biomass. Current study is an attempt to increase growth in sunflower plants using lemongrass foliar extract. For this purpose, various trials based on computer modeling have conducted. Pot experiment of sunflower plants has performed in greenhouse conditions that have irrigated by different concentrations of lemongrass extract. Results show that lower concentrations produced significant gain in biomass of crop i.e. greater fresh and dry weight was achieved by 1% samples (7.4±0.8mg and 2.0±0.3mg respectively) while lowest fresh and dry weight attained by 3% samples (2.5±0.2mg and 1.1±0.1mg respectively). Absolute growth rate (AGR) and Relative growth rate (RGR) of the plants are obtained in sequential order of treatment. Control, 0.5% and 2% samples form close linear fit to the model while 0.5% samples produce long tailed positive correlation fit whereas 3% samples are negatively fitted to the model. CDF model produce closely fitted relationship of 1% and control samples while 3% samples negatively corresponded to normal fit. Therefore, current study suggests promoting an efficient agriculture strategy that would be helpful in biomass gain of the crops to sequester carbon and effectively take part in climate mitigation.