Year: 2013
Type: article
Abstract: An evaluation on the potential benefit of using Moringa oleifera leaf extract as a growth hormone on common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) and maize (Zea mays) was done. Trials were carried out in the greenhouse and field. In the greenhouse, five treatments were used: control (M0, only water applied), second control (ME, only ethanol applied), moringa extract (in 80% ethanol) applied (on leaves) once at 2 weeks from emergence (M1), moringa extract applied at 2 and 4 weeks from emergence (M2), and moringa extract applied every 2 weeks to maturity from two weeks from germination (M3). The same treatments were adopted in the field except ME, which was considered unnecessary after observing the results of the greenhouse experiment. Results showed that moringa extract increased growth and yield of beans in both greenhouse and field, and of maize in the field. However, the extract showed no significant effect on DM yield, root DM or plant height of maize in the greenhouse. The highest DM and root weight, height and crop yields in greenhouse and field experiments for beans, and for maize in the field only, were obtained at M3. The study recommends the application of extract at M3.
Institution: Africa University
Language: English
Subfield: Plant Science
Domain: Life Sciences
SDG: Zero hunger
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W2186459616