Optimization of Moringa oleifera Lam. Leaf Extract as a Priming Tool and Plant Nutrient Supplement for Helianthus annuus L

To evaluate the comparative efficacy of different concentrations of moringa leaf extract on germination, seedling growth and seed yield of sunflower, two laboratory experiments in Allelopathy laboratory of Department of Agronomy and a field trial at Agronomic Research Area of University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan, were conducted during spring, 2011. The experimental design of two laboratory experiments was CRD, while that of field trial was RCBD with factorial arrangement. Different concentrations of 5%, 10%, 15% and 20% of moringa leaf extract were used as treatments that were applied as foliar sprays at different time. The result showed that all concentration of moringa suppressed the sunflower germination, however moringa leaf extract in 5% concentration was effective in increasing the seedling growth and development. Results from field experiment showed that moringa leaf extract sprays in all concentrations at 45 and 60 DAS increased the sunflower seed yield. Thus foliar application of moringa leaf extract has the potential to increase the seed yield of sunflower and that too in an economic way.