EFFECT OF SOIL CONDITIONER AND K-CA RATIOS IN SOIL AND NUTRIENT SOLUTION ON THE GROWTH OF MARJORAM PLANTS

The application of 100 g/m² polyvinylalcohol (PVA) into the soil promoted the plant growth, due to the formation of large aggregates. Leaf number of marjoram was strikingly increased by PVA application, due to the increase of shoot branching.

The ratio of K/Ca= ½ in total amount in chmical equivalent in soil and nutrient solution in hydroponics had a significant effect on the growth and essential oil content. The ratio of N+P to K+Ca+Mg in content in plant was high in this treatment as compared with the treatment at K / Ca = 2/1. The growth and essential oil content in aromatic plants are considered to be influenced by cation/anion balance in plant.

Plants grown in spring-summer showed a vigorous growth as compared with those in autumn-winter.