Vol. 8, Issue 9, Part M (2024)

The present research titled Evaluation of promising species of mint in terms of growth, herbage and oil yield under open and shade net conditions was executed utilizing a split-plot design within the medicinal block at Dr. YSRHU - College of Horticulture (COH), Anantharajupeta, Annamaya district, Andhra Pradesh, rabi season 2023-24. This investigation aimed to assess the performance of four mint species (japanese mint, spear mint, pepper mint and bergamot mint) under varying cultivation conditions (open and 50% shade net). The findings indicated that among the treatments, growth metrics such as plant height, plant spread and leaf: stem fresh weight ratio, as well as yield metrics i.e. fresh and dry herbage yield and oil yield demonstrated significantly superior performance in japanese mint grown under 50% shade net. Conversely, pepper mint exhibited the highest number of internodes (in 50% shade net), whereas bergamot mint outperformed in leaf area under 50% shade net. The study revealed that japanese mint thrives best in 50% shade net. This finding was significant as it highlights the adaptability of japanese mint to different light conditions, which can be crucial for optimizing yield in diverse agricultural settings.