R. Rashika, P. Karuppaiah, J. Sam Ruban, R. Sendhilnathan and G. Sathiyanarayanan
Abstract
Dracaena reflexa Lam. âSong of Indiaâ is a widely valued ornamental foliage plant recognized for its attractive variegation, durability, and air-purifying capacity. However, maximizing its commercial quality requires precise growth regulation. The present study was conducted to assess the impact of various plant growth regulators (PGRs) on the growth, yield, and quality attributes of D. reflexa under tropical conditions. The experiment was conducted using a Randomized Block Design with 16 treatments involving Naphthaleneacetic Acid (NAA), Triacontanol, Benzyl aminopurine (BAP), Forchlorfenuron (CPPU), and Brassinosteroids, applied as monthly foliar sprays. The results demonstrated that CPPU 500 ppm (T11) produced the most favourable response across multiple traits. This treatment significantly improved leaf breadth (3.21 cm), leaf area (53.59 cm²), stem girth (5.68 cm), chlorophyll content (55.91 SPAD), number of cut stems per plant (8.01), cut foliage yield per m² (22.18), visual quality score (9.79), and vase life (16.74 days), all markedly superior to the control. Triacontanol 75 ppm (T6) recorded the highest plant height (71.73 cm) and leaf length (19.76 cm), indicating its distinct role in promoting elongation growth. Overall, the study highlights CPPU 500 ppm as the most effective PGR for enhancing growth, aesthetic quality, and postharvest longevity in D. reflexa âSong of Indiaâ, offering a promising strategy for sustainable commercial cut foliage production.