Investigating the yield and radiation use efficiency of Wild majoram (Origanum vulgare subsp. virid) in response to urea and azocompost fertilizers

In order to investigate the effects of urea and azocompost on the yield and radiation use efficiency (RUE) of wild majoram, a factorial experiment was conducted based on randomized complete block design with three replications at Yazd and Mashhad, Iran, during 2012-2013 growing season. Four urea levels and four Azocompost levels (to provide 0, 40, 80 and 120 kg N ha-1 each) were considered as the experiment factors. Simple effect did not show significant differences among evaluated charecteristics. The results of combined analysis of two locations revealed significant effects of urea and azocompost on economic yield (P<0.05). The highest yield in urea and azocompost were observed to 1625.94 and 1768.65 kg ha-1 that was obtained from 120 kg N ha-1 treatment, respectively. The most leaf area index and total dry matter obtained at 120 kg organic N ha-1 in two locations. Application of organic and chemical fertilizers increased RUE (radiation use efficiency) compared to control plants in the both regions, which the azocompost caused higher RUE than urea. In general, the results indicated that application of azocompost caused to produce higher yields, dry matter and RUE than urea in oregano plants.