Impact of Urea Applications on Growth Attributes and Gel Yield of Aloe vera L. Plant

Abstract

Although Aloe vera is an indigenous plant of Sudan with numerous applications in health, cosmetics and food industries in global markets, agricultural research to exploit the potential of this plant is almost lacking. This study aimed to investigate the impact of urea applications at various rates on the growth attributes and quality of Aloe vera plants under nursery conditions, at Shambat, Khartoum North, Sudan. Five levels of urea (0, 1.5, 3, 4.5 and 6 g/plant) were tested as soil dressings in 25X30 cm plastic bags. The study was arranged in a complete randomized design where each treatment was replicated eight times. Data were collected after 12 months. The 1.5 g urea treatment enhanced growth, leaf gel and chlorophyll contents, whereas the higher levels of urea were suppressive. The encouraging results of this study elucidated an economical potential for possible large scale production of the plant under Sudan conditions.