Effect of nitrogen fertilization on antioxidant activity of Mas cotek (Ficus deltoidea Jack)

Abstract

Mas cotek (Ficus deltoidea Jack) a medicinal herb has its wider application for treating many disorders e.g. as a cure of disorders of menstrual cycle, gout, diabetes, hypertension and diarrhea. With increasing popularity, area under cultivation of Mas cotek plant is increasing and there is a need to optimize its growing conditions to get maximum produce by limited use of available resources. Present study was conducted to check the response of Mas cotek plant to differential application of nitrogen and its effect on growth, biochemical and antioxidant activity. Five levels of urea (0, 50, 100, 150 and 200 kg N ha-1) were applied, each with four replicates under RCBD in open shelter glasshouse conditions. Data were recorded on growth related parameters, biochemical traits and antioxidant activity. The results showed that nitrogen application improved growth, chlorophyll contents and antioxidant activity of Mas cotek with maxiumum growth @ 100 kg ha-1.