Influence of shade levels on morpho-physiological characteristics of potted spathiphyllum

Abstract

The intensity of the shade is a critical factor in the production of potted spathiphyllum. Plants were grown in various levels of green coloured shade net to assess the growth response regarding vegetative, flowering, and physiological characteristics. The results showed that under 75 % shade, spathiphyllum plants exhibited the most significant plant spread, petiole girth, leaf thickness, leaf number, and leaf length. Likewise, spathe characters such as length, width, diameter, and the number of blooms were recorded highest at 75 % shade level. Similarly, the fresh weight and dried weight of the leaves were also found to be significant. Foliage chlorophyll content and foliage longevity increased linearly with increasing shade. Shade levels improved the spathiphyllum’s foliage colour, an essential characteristic of indoor plants. It is concluded that using shade nets with a shade intensity of 75% would result in better growth and production of potted spathiphyllum, allowing farmers to earn more income.