Research on the growth and development of some varieties of Lavandula Angustifolia (Mill.) in the South-East of Romania

Abstract

The purpose of this paper was to analyze the canopy volume of lavender shrubs as a morphologic trait influenced by variety and also to evaluate the development of the root system on a Chromic Luvisol with an argic B horizon. The crop was established in 2017 at Belciugatele Didactic Station/Moara Domnească Farm (44°30′ North, 26°15′ East) using the following lavender varieties: Sevstopolis, Vera, Hidcote, and Buena Vista. During 2017-2019, plants’ height and diameters were measured at harvest, and these observations were used to determine lavender shrubs’ canopy volume, by applying the derived ellipsoid volume formula. Varieties (A) obtained different values in terms of canopy volumes, and these values also varied under the influence of the different doses and combinations of mineral and organic fertilizers (B). The highest canopy volume was registered by Vera, with values ranging from 0.0557 m3 (1st year, Control) and 0.0944 m3 (3rd year, organic fertilization with manure at 30 t/ha). The evaluation of the root system distribution and development was performed after carrying out a soil profile between two plants, along the row, for each researched variety. Measurements were conducted using a frame of 50/50 cm, and data sampling was performed for every 10 cm layer, by counting and measuring the roots. Based on these observations the root section area (RSA) was determined. The values of this indicator ranged between 283.06 mm2 (Buena Vista) and 378.29 mm2 (Vera).