Effect of Chromolaena odorata on the Growth and Biomass Accumulation of Celosia argentea

摘要

Chromolaena odorata (a weed in the family Asteraceae) has been shown to enhance the buildup of organic matter in fallow system in tropical soil. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of Chromolaena odorata on the growth of Celosia argentea. The shoots of C. odorata were extracted in distilled water after soaking for 12 h. The filtrate obtained served as treatment for the seedling in the aqueous extract regime (FSE). Results showed that the shoot height, leaf area, fresh and dry weight were enhanced by the application of aqueous extract prepared from the fresh shoot of Chromolaena odorata. The root length of the test plant in the aqueous extract regime was longer at the initial period of the experiment but was later lower than those of the control. Therefore, Chromolaena odorata might not be playing an inhibitory role on the growth and development of Celosia argentea. It was suggested that the weed should be soil incorporated to serve as green manure.