“Effects of Vermicompost and Vermiwash on Plant Phenolic Content and Antioxidant Activity of Mexican Pepperleaf (Piper auritum Kunth) Cultivated in Phosphate Rock Potting Media,” presents an in-depth study on the influence of organic fertilizers on the phenolic content and antioxidant activity in Mexican Pepperleaf. Key highlights from the study are:
Experiment Focus: The study investigates the effects of vermicompost, vermiwash, and phosphate rock on the total phenols, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity in Piper auritum Kunth leaves.
Plant Growth and Treatment: The plants were grown from cuttings and subjected to varying concentrations of vermicompost, vermiwash, and phosphate rock according to a Box-Behnken experimental design.
Measurement of Growth and Chemical Content: Plant growth parameters (such as plant height, stem diameter, and leaf number) and chlorophyll content were measured, along with total phenols, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity.
Results on Plant Growth: The study found no significant effect of vermicompost, vermiwash, and phosphate rock on the overall growth parameters of the plants. However, total phenolic compounds were significantly affected by both vermiwash and phosphate rock.
Antioxidant Activity: The antioxidant activity decreased with the addition of vermicompost. A specific combination of 15 mL plant^-1 vermiwash and 1 g phosphate rock, along with 20 g vermicompost plant^-1, showed an increase in total phenol content.
Environmental and Agricultural Implications: The study provides insight into the potential use of organic amendments like vermicompost and vermiwash in enhancing the biochemical properties of plants, with implications for both environmental sustainability and agricultural productivity.
In conclusion, this research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on sustainable agriculture, demonstrating that organic fertilizers like vermicompost and vermiwash can enhance the nutritional value and health benefits of crops such as the Mexican Pepperleaf.
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