Influence of organic fertilizer and licorice root on growth, flowering and chemical constitution of Chinese carnation (Dianthus chinensis L.)

The experiment was implemented in the facilities of the Department of Horticulture and Landscape Engineering (greenhouse) at the College of Agriculture, University of Anbar. It aimed to investigate the effect of organic fertilizer and licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) root powder on the vegetative growth, flowering traits and chemical composition of Chinese carnation plants. The first factor consisted of four concentrations of organic fertilizer: 0, 5, 10 and 15 mL L-1, The second factor included three levels of licorice root powder: 0, 3 and 6 g per pot. The experiment was arranged in a factorial arrangement (4 × 3) using a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. Each experimental unit consisted of three plants. The results Displayed that using organic fertilizer at a level of 15 mL L-1 significantly elevated height of plant, branches number and leaves number, diameter of flower, number of flower, petals content of anthocyanin and leaves content of nitrogen, carbohydrate and chlorophyll. These values can be analyzed as strong proof that organic fertilizer stimulates plant growth and enhances its growth and flower traits. Adding 3 g of licorice root powder to each pot also aided to improved growth of branch and leaves, total leaves area, diameter of flower, number of flower and total chlorophyll, suggesting that this treatment could be an successful supplement to stimulate overall health of plants. These results can be used to advance practical agricultural strategies aimed at rising plant productivity and flower and leaf quality, whether in home gardening or commercial production, by employing organic fertilizer at an adequate rate and supplementing licorice root as an aid to enhance growth and promote the nutritional content of plants.