EFFECT OF DIFFERENT MINERAL FERTILIZERS ON THE GROWTH OF Abelmoschus manihot (L.) MEDIK
Abstract
The flowers and leaves of this species are rich in flavonoids (particularly rutin, hyperoside, and myricetin), polysaccharides, and steroids, which account for its pronounced anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, cardioprotective, and immunomodulatory properties. Despite its high therapeutic and agronomic potential, the successful cultivation of A. manihot outside its natural distribution range is associated with several ecological constraints. As a typical representative of subtropical flora, this species is highly sensitive to temperature, solar radiation, and soil moisture conditions. The introduction of A. manihot into other climatic zones, such as regions with sharply continental arid climates or temperate latitudes, inevitably induces adaptive physiological and morphological changes. These changes are reflected in altered growth rates, modifications of plant architecture, and significant shifts in the timing of key phenological stages. Without a thorough understanding of phenological development and the dynamics of vegetative biomass accumulation under specific environmental conditions, it is impossible to optimize cultivation practices or determine the optimal harvesting period for medicinal raw materials with the highest content of biologically active compounds. The objective of this study —was to investigate the growth and developmental characteristics, as well as the reproductive phenology, of Abelmoschus manihot (L.) Medik. under different mineral fertilizer treatments. Phenological observations and biometric measurements were conducted during the 2026 growing season following the methodology described by Beydeman (1974). To determine seed germination under field conditions, seeds were sown in the experimental field during spring at a depth of 1–2 cm. Seeds collected in 2024 were sown on 7 April, while seeds collected in 2025 were sown on 27 April 2026. Field germination ranged from 23.5% to 46.5%.
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