The effect of Osmocote, zeolite, and biofertilizers on early growth of Mentha × piperita ‘Cinderella’ seedlings

Abstract

Mentha × piperita is a widely cultivated perennial, medicinal, culinary, and aromatic plant valued for its essential oil and used in cosmetic, pharmacy, and aromatherapy. Considering that zeolite and biofertilizers can positively influence plant growth, their use has been increasing recently in plant production. For that reason, this study examined the single and combined effects of zeolite, Slavol, and Osmocote on early growth of the peppermint cultivar ‘Cinderella’. The obtained results showed that zeolite, Osmocote, or Slavol applied individually did not affect plant growth, as their results did not differ from the control. However, the combined Osmocote and zeolite treatment improved seedling growth, producing the greatest shoot length and highest leaf number, compared to other treatments. The best results were achieved with the substrate containing Osmocote, zeolite, and Slavol, which yielded the longest roots and highest shoot dry weight.