The analysis of endogenous auxin of shallot and its effect on the germination and the growth of organically cultivated melon (Cucumis Melo)

Abstract

Nowadays, the demand for organic melon increases along with the enhancement of people awareness of the role of organic products in human health. However, there is limited source of organic hormone to support organic cultivation. Therefore, this experiment aimed to identify endogenous hormone of shallot and to investigate the effect of the hormone on germination and the growth of melon (Cucumismelo). The results showed that 45 days and 80 days after harvest the shallot contained 3 types endogenous auxin hormones (Indole-3-Acetic Acid, 2.4 Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid and a-Naphthalene Acitic Acid) and Cytokines (6- Benzyl Amino Purine). Overall, 45 days after harvest the shallot contained more hormones than it did 80 days after harvest (DAH). It contained 0.73-0.75 ppm Indole-3-acetic acid. Additionally, 0.85 ppm 6-Benzyl Amino Purine was detected in the shallot 45 DAH or 121% more than that found in the shallot 80 DAH. However, 2.4-Dicholophenoxy acetic acid and a-Naphthalene acitic acid were found only in the shallot 45 DAH. Extract of the shallot 45 DAH was applied on melon seeds by soaking them for 24 hours with different extraction methods (juicer and blender) and at several concentrations (75%, 50%, 25% and 12.5%). The shallot extract resulting from the juicer was effective to increase the germination rate, the fresh weight and the dry weight of melon plant. Meanwhile, there was not any significant difference among the different concentrations. It might be related to low concentration of the shallot extract. This experiment showed that the shallot extract was potential as organic hormone source.