FULL LENGTH RESEARCH PAPER Effect of Some Plant Growth Regulators on the Growth and Nutritional Value of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. (Red sorrel)

The study was carried out to investigate the effects of growth regulator treatments on the growth and chlorophyll and biochemical contents of Hibiscus sabdariffa (sorrel). The treatments comprised of 50ppm and 100ppm each of indole acetic acid (IAA) and gibberellic acid (GA 3) and 10% and 15% coconut milk. A total of three foliar applications were made at two weeks interval commencing from two weeks after sowing. The control plants were sprayed with water. All the treatments significantly increased plant height, stem girth, leaf development and chlorophyll content of the vegetable with higher values recorded in treatments with 100ppm IAA, 100ppm GA 3 and 15% coconut milk. Treatments with 15% coconut milk and 100ppm GA 3 resulted in greater carbohydrate and vitamins A,B6 and C contents of the vegetable. Phosphorus and potassium levels were higher in 15% coconut milk treated plants, whereas sodium, copper and zinc levels were greater in 100ppm GA 3 treatment. The study suggests that 15% coconut milk and 100ppm GA 3 have potential to increase growth and nutritional value of Hibiscus sabdariffa .