Vol. 10, Special Issue 1, Part O (2026)

The present investigation, “Optimization of Foliar Nano Urea and Media Composition for Improved Growth in Ornamental Philodendron”, was carried out at the College of Horticulture, Mojerla, SKLTSHU, during December 2021 to May 2022. The experiment was laid out in a factorial randomized block design (FRBD) with two factors. The first factor included six levels of nano urea: N0: No spray, N1: Conventional urea 2 g L⁻¹, N2: Nano urea 0.5 ml L⁻¹, N3: Nano urea 1 ml L⁻¹, N4: Nano urea 1.5 ml L⁻¹, and N5: Nano urea 2 ml L⁻¹. The second factor consisted of four levels of potting media composition: M1: Red Earth, M2: Red Earth + Cocopeat (1:1), M3: Red Earth + Cocopeat + FYM (1:1:1), and M4: Red Earth + Cocopeat + FYM (2:1:1). Growth parameters including plant height, number of leaves, leaf length, leaf width, and leaf area were recorded at 65, 95, and 125 days after planting (DAP). Significant variations were observed among nano urea levels and media compositions, with the highest growth recorded in the N5M3 treatment combination, registering 46.29 cm plant height, 62.13 leaves per plant, and 213.49 cm² leaf area at 125 DAP. The enhanced growth is attributed to increased nitrogen availability, stimulation of auxin synthesis, improved enzymatic activity, and efficient translocation of photosynthates, which promoted cell division, elongation, and leaf expansion. Cocopeat-based media improved water retention, aeration, and nutrient availability, while FYM contributed essential nutrients and organic carbon, enhancing overall plant growth. Interaction effects between nano urea levels and media composition were statistically significant for all growth parameters. The study concludes that foliar application of nano urea at 2 ml L⁻¹ combined with Red Earth + Cocopeat + FYM (1:1:1) potting media is optimal for maximizing vegetative growth and ornamental quality of Philodendron scandens.