Impact of Natural and Synthetic Plant Stimulants on Moringa Seedlings Grown under Low-Temperature Conditions

Low-temperature results in various physiological and metabolic disturbances in cells of plants which are sensitive to low-temperatures. Moringa is getting popularity as a field crop because of its multipurpose usage. There is no information available about effects of low-temperature (14-18°C) on moringa seedlings and its mitigation. Present study was conducted to test the performance of moringa seedling grown in wire house under low-temperature conditions in response to foliar application of moringa leaf extract (3% solution), hydrogen peroxide (5 ml L-1), ascorbic acid (50 mg L-1) and salicylic acid (50 mg L-1). Seeds of six moringa accessions [Local landrace grown at Agronomic Research Area, Z.A Hashmi Hall, Firdous Colony. Exotic landrace grown at Lalazaar Colony, Department of Agronomy and Agronomic Research Area.] were collected and grown in polythene bags filled with equal ratio of compost, sand, silt and clay. All foliar treatments were applied twice; first round at the seedling age one month and second round at the seedling age two months. Foliar application of moringa leaf extract significantly enhanced number of branches (92%) and leaves (39%), leaf total chlorophyll contents (73%), leaf phenolic contents (53%) and membrane stability index (57%) of moringa seedlings compared to control. Healthy and vigorous growth of moringa seedlings with higher concentration of antioxidants ensured the defensive potential of moringa leaf extract against low-temperature condition.