Comparative changes in metabolism of Vigna radiata by foliar and root application of brassinolide at different concentrations

The present study shows the effect of the foliar and root application of brassinolide on growth and metabolism of Vigna radiata. For this purpose, three concentrations of brassinolide (1, 0.01 and 0.0001 ppm) were applied on the plant. Brassinolide (BL) solutions were applied as foliar and root treatments for 21 days after sowing (DAS). Samples were collected after two and four weeks of treatments. Content of total sugars, reducing sugars, chlorophyll and proteins, activity of peroxidase (EC 1.11.1x), leaf area and height of plants were estimated. All these parameters increased significantly by 1 ppm foliar spray of BL as compared to the other concentrations. It was concluded that BL enhanced growth of V. radiata. L. under both root and foliar applications, but foliar treatment was more effective.   Key words: Vigna radiata, foliar spray, root irrigation, brassinolide, concentrations.