Influence of foliar application of organic fertilizer “BOMBARDIER” on morphological and phytochemical traits of dragonhead (Dracocephalum moldavica L.) under water deficit stress

To investigate the effect of organic fertilizer foliar application on morphological and phytochemical traits of dragonhead, a split plot experiment was conducted in randomized complete block design layout with three replications during 2016 growing season. The main plots were consisted of irrigation interval at three level (3, 6 and 9 day) and subplots were consisted of foliar application of BOMBARDIER as organic fertilizer at four levels (control, 2,4 and 6 ml/L). With increasing irrigation interval plant height, number of lateral branch, number of flowering branch, stem diameter, dry matter yield, essential oil content and essential oil yield decreased. Effect of interaction between foliar application and irrigation interval was significant on number of secondary branch, number of flowering branch, stem diameter and essential oil yield. Foliar application with 6 milliliter/liter concentration produced the maximum amount photosynthesis pigments in dragonhead Maximum essential oil yield was gained (9.1 and 6.15 kg/ha) with the application of 4 ml organic fertilizer per L in irrigation intervals of 6 and 9 days in compare to control treatment. Application of 6 ml organic fertilizer per L in irrigation interval of 3 days increased essential oil yield by 50% in compare to control treatment. In total results showed that in all of the irrigation intervals foliar application with organic fertilizer in compare with control treatment could be significantly enhanced essential oil yield in dragonhead plant. Therefore, this treatment can be introduced as the best treatment.