The effect of organic and biological fertilizers application on yield and some morphological characteristics in Coneflower (Echinaceae purpurea L.)

The present study was conducted to investigate the yield and some morphological characteristics of Echinacea Purpurea. The experiment was conducted in Research Farm of the Ramin Agriculture and Natural Resources University of Khuzestan during 2013- 2014. The experiment was performed as a split plot factorial based on a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four replications. The foliar application of vermicompost tea (control and vermicompost tea) was applied in the main plot and other factors include organic fertilizer (control, vermicompost and cow manure) and biofertilizer (control and of Azospir biofertilizer) were used in the sub-plots. Results showed that maximum diameter of the flower was obtained by vermicompost application. The maximum root dry weight, stem dry weight, leaf dry weight, number of flowers per plant and lateral shoot number were obtained by mixed application of vermicompost and Azospir biofertilizer. It was also found that vermicompost with Azospir biofertilizer treatment caused the highest flower, dry weight, biological yield and root diameter. Most collar diameter was created by the integrated treatment of manure and bio-fertilizer. The highest LAI value was obtained by combined Azospir biofertilizer and vermicompost tea. The foliar application of vermicompost tea and Azospir biofertilizer caused the highest plant height. However, the highest harvest index was observed in control treatment. As a result, it was found that integrated treatment of vermicompost and vermicompost tea was remarkably recognized better than other treatments which could improve the yield of Echinacea Purpurea.