EFFECT OF SHADING AND MULCHING ON THE GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF Andrographis paniculata Burm f.

Abstract

Andrographis paniculata Burm f. is herbal plant that has shown potential for commercialisation. To obtain optimal production, proper plant management techniques must be identified. Therefore, this study aims to determine the effects of shading and mulching materials on the growth of A. paniculata. The study employed both shading and non-shading treatments to examine the effects, and five different types of mulching treatment were utilised: Non-mulched, coconut husk, rice husk, gravel, and sand. The results revealed that there were no significant differences between plants grown with or without shading, as well as between plants with or without mulching. Therefore, it was concluded that A. paniculata can survive and grow under both shaded and direct sunlight conditions, without the necessity of mulching. However, if mulching is deemed necessary, it is recommended to utilise finer materials that can easily decompose in the soil. This study represents an original idea that was developed and carried out to answer questions related to the cultivation of A. paniculata.