Influence of Ba, Promalin, and Dikegulac-Sodium on Frond Initiation and Vegetative Growth of Boston Fern

Abstract

<jats:p>Effects of BA, Promalin and Dikegulac-sodium on frond number and overall growth in Boston Fern (<jats:underline>Nephrolepis exaltata L.</jats:underline>) were studies. Four weeks after transplanting, fern liners were sprayed with aqueous solutions of BA, Promalin and dikegulac-sodium. Chemical concentrations of BA and promalin ranged from 0 to 150 mg. liter<jats:sup>-1</jats:sup> at 50 mg. liter<jats:sup>-1</jats:sup> increments. Chemical concentrations of dikegulac-sodium ranged for 0 to 750 mg.liter<jats:sup>-1</jats:sup> at 250 mg.liter<jats:sup>-1</jats:sup> increments. Chemical treatments were arranged in a randomized complete block design with 6 replications. BA and Promalin significantly increased the number of fronds, average frond length, leaf area and dry weight as the concentration of the chemicals increased. In contrast, dikegulac-sodium significantly suppressed the average frond length, leaf area and dry weight when compared to the control. Similarly to BA and Promalin, dikegulac-sodium increased the number of fronds as the concentration of the chemical increased.</jats:p>