Effect of the Mixture of Charcoal with Pyroligneous Acid on Shoot and Root Growth of Sweet Potato

Abstract

To determine the effect of a mixture of charcoal with pyroligneous acid (Sannekka E) on the growth of shoot and root in sweet potato, three experiments were carried out at the experimental farm of Miyazaki University from 1995 to 1996. The number of roots, root length and root dry weight of sweet potato seedlings were increased by soaking in a pyroligneous acid solution. When the effects of Sannekka E on the growth of sweet potatoes cultured in pots were examined, it was found that the application of Sannekka E promoted the growth of sweet potato root, increased its activity, and promoted the absorption of nitrogen. In addition, the application of Sannekka E promoted the rate of photosynthesis by increasing nitrogen and chlorophyll contents in leaf blade, and enlarged leaf area. As a result, top dry weight and tuberous root increased.