Evaluation of promising species of mint in terms of growth, herbage and oil yield under open and shade net conditions

Abstract

The present research titled Evaluation of promising species of mint in terms of growth, herbage and oil yield under open and shade net conditions was executed utilizing a split-plot design within the medicinal block at Dr. YSRHU - College of Horticulture (COH), Anantharajupeta, Annamaya district, Andhra Pradesh, rabi season 2023-24. This investigation aimed to assess the performance of four mint species (japanese mint, spear mint, pepper mint and bergamot mint) under varying cultivation conditions (open and 50% shade net). The findings indicated that among the treatments, growth metrics such as plant height, plant spread and leaf: stem fresh weight ratio, as well as yield metrics i.e. fresh and dry herbage yield and oil yield demonstrated significantly superior performance in japanese mint grown under 50% shade net. Conversely, pepper mint exhibited the highest number of internodes (in 50% shade net), whereas bergamot mint outperformed in leaf area under 50% shade net. The study revealed that japanese mint thrives best in 50% shade net. This finding was significant as it highlights the adaptability of japanese mint to different light conditions, which can be crucial for optimizing yield in diverse agricultural settings.