Growth and development of basil, thyme and oregano seedlings on organic and conventional substrates

Abstract

Medicinal and aromatic herbs are plant species whose bioactive components are used in pharmacy, medicine, food and cosmetic industry. Considering the increase in global demand for medicinal plants, the cultivation of these plants gain importance. The aim of the research was to determine the influence of two types of growing substrates (organic and conventional) on the growth and development of basil, oregano and thyme seedlings. Basil and thyme seedlings grew better in the conventional substrate, while oregano seedlings in the organic supstrat. Opposite of that, germination and sprouting of thyme was the numerous in the organic, while for oregano was in conventional substrate. The results indicate that cultures respond differently to the growing substrate, therefore the choice of an adequate growing substrate has a significant role in the production of quality planting material of medicinal and aromatic plants.

Keywords

• medicinal and aromatic plants
• cultivation of seedlings
• substrates