Growth, nitrogen, chlorophyll, and carotenoid content of Gynura procumbens (Lour) Merr. leaves at different shade

Abstract

Abstract. The objectives of this research were to find out the influence and optimal different shading on growth, nitrogen, carotenoid, and chlorophyll content of Gynura procumbens leaf. This research was carried out in the greenhouse of Faculty of Agriculture Sebelas Maret University and Central Laboratory Sebelas Maret University Surakarta, from June until October 2003. A completely randomized design with a single factor was used as follows: 0%, 40%, and 70% shading with 10 replications for each treatment. The observation includes growth parameters (plant height, surface leaf’s area, dry weight) and nitrogen, chlorophyll, and carotenoid contents. Data collected were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by DMRT test at 5% confidence level and regression test. The result indicated that 40% shading had increased growth parameters, 70% shading significantly affected nitrogen and chlorophyll content, while 0% shading showed increased carotenoid content.