Effect of using Hydrogel on the stem system for the cultivation of spearmint (Mentha spicata)

Abstract

One of the main factors affecting the productivity of plant cultivation is water scarcity. Likewise, “hierba buena” (Mentha spicata) is considered a plant with beneficial characteristics for health due to its antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and digestion-improving properties. In the present work we examined the use of hydrogel in the cultivation of Mentha spicata, evaluating its effect on growth in the cauline and root systems. A control sample “A” without the application of the hydrogel, a sample “B” in the presence of hydrogel with soil, and a sample “C” containing hydrogel and a guano substrate were analyzed. Greater growth was observed in the cauline system in sample “B” with a size of 21.400 ± 0.337 cm and 4.300 ± 0.0816 cm in stem and leaves, respectively; growth in this system could be associated with the thermoregulatory role of the hydrogel in the presence of soil which favored the growth of this zone. These results are favorable since the main sources of its nutrients and the plant zone that is most used are found in the caulinar system.