Effect of shading on leaf yield, plant parameters, and essential oil content of lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.)

Publication date: Available online 28 April 2017 Source:Journal of Applied Research on Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Author(s): Marco Russo, Bernd Honermeier In the present study, the effects of a light reduction by plant protection nets on lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.) have been investigated. The lemon balm plant stand was surveyed over three consecutive years under sandy soil conditions. Harvest took place in two cuts in each of the investigated years (2013–2015). Shaded plants tended to have a higher plant height. The moderate shading could not positively influence leaf yield, investigated plant parameters, and the essential oil content. It can therefore be concluded that the use of protection nets with a moderate light reduction of 10–15% is not advantageous for lemon balm cultivation under temperate climate conditions. However, their use, e.g. for the protection against insect pests, is not regarded as negative, as they were not impairing leaf yield or essential oil content of lemon balm. Graphical abstract
Source: Journal of Applied Research on Medicinal and Aromatic Plants - Category: Complementary Medicine Source Type: research