Rapid and non-destructive leaf chlorophyll estimation of Fig (Ficus carica L.) cv. Iraqi grown on different root zone spatial limitation and controlled porosity level under greenhouse condition

Abstract

The estimation of chlorophyll content in leaves by the chlorophyll meter (SPAD 502) is more favourable than by the extraction method for studies on photosynthesis or senescence where the total chlorophyll is estimated on the same leaf over time. However, till date there is lack of information available on leaf chlorophyll content of Fig (Ficus carica L.) cv. Iraqi grown in containers under different root zone spatial limitation and controlled porosity level. Hence, this study aim to determine the effect of both factors on leaf chlorophyll content of the crop. The experiment was design in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four replications. The Soil-Plant Analyses Development (SPAD) chlorophyll meter (Minolta Camera Co., Ltd., Japan), has been used for instantly measuring the amount of chlorophyll present in plant leaves. Based on the results, the application of Mix 3 (50% sand: 50% clay) with high root zone spatial gave the highest chlorophyll content compared to other treatment. The application of the right root zone and porosity level may gave positive effect on leaf chlorophyll content of F. carica cv. Iraqi grown under greenhouse condition.