Homobrassinoloide application for enhancing growth and productivity of tea (Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze)

Abstract

The present was study conducted to evaluate the bio-efficacy and phytotoxicity of Homobrassinoloide 0.04% EC w/w (Bountee) in tea (Camellia sinensis) under field conditions in Himachal Pradesh. The trial was laid out in a Randomized Block Design with seven treatments, including different concentrations of Homobrassinoloide and a standard GA treatment, along with an untreated control. Homobrassinoloide was applied thrice at monthly intervals using a knapsack sprayer. Results indicated that the application of Homobrassinoloide at 0.12 g a.i./ha (300 ml/ha) significantly enhanced chlorophyll content, shoot extension rate, actively growing shoot count, shoot biomass, and overall fresh shoot yield compared to the control. These improvements were statistically on par with higher doses and GA application. Additionally, no significant adverse effects on tea quality parameters such as colour index, total liquor colour, and briskness index were observed. Phytotoxicity evaluations confirmed the safety of all tested doses. The findings highlight the potential of Homobrassinoloide @ 12g a.i. /ha as an bio stimulant for improving tea yield and quality.