Effect of different cultivation substrates on growth and biochemical responses of Borzicactus aurantiacus

Cultivation substrates have an important role in providing favorable conditions for the growth of plants. Borzicactus aurantiacus is the species of columnar cactus, which is a suitable base for transplantation. In this survey, the effect of different cultivation substrates on growth, relative water content (RWC) and biochemical responses (chlorophyll, carotenoids, proline, anthocyanin and phenolic compounds) of Borzicactus in a randomized design with 9 treatments and 3 replications were evaluated. The results showed that the highest stem length and a maximum of RWC were observed in substrate D (vermicompost, coco peat, peat moss and perlite in the ratio of 1:2:1.5:0.5), but, dry weight of shoots was not significant. The maximum length and dry weight of roots were related to substrate H (vermicompost and peat moss in the ratio of 1:0.5). There was an inverse relationship between proline content and RWC, so the highest amount of proline and the lowest of relative water content were related substrates C (coco peat,peat moss, and perlite in the ratio of 1:1:1). In addition, chlorophyll, carotenoids, and anthocyanin of plants in substrate E (vermicompost, coco peat, peat moss and perlite in the ratio of 1:1:1:1) were reached the maximum. The highest phenolic compounds were in the substrate of G (vermicompost). As a result, cultivation substrate containing coco peat, peat, perlite and vermicompost due to the presence of organic matter and high cation exchange capacity, have recommended as suitable for cultivation. Thus, substrates H and D are the best substrates for planting and maintenance of Borzicactus.

Keywords:

Borzicactus , Vermicompost , Perlite , Coco peat , Peat moss