Effects of variable shading in a greenhouse study on rhizom e weight, root length, and bud proliferation in goldenseal
2002
Quigley, M.F. | Mulhall, S.
Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) is an herbaceous perennial valued for its fleshy rhizomes, which contain the alkaloids hydrastine and berberine. While it is understood that relative shade influences growth and yield of goldenseal, optimal shade level for maximum rhizome mass and plant vigor under cultivation has not been established. Goldenseal plants grown from cold stratified rhizomes were kept under shade for 5 months in the greenhouse. Treatments were five different shade levels ranging from 60% to 95% of full shade, plus a control group in full sun. Measured variables included rootlet length, bud development, and rhizome mass. Plants grown under moderate shade (60 to 70%) produced longer and more numerous rootlets, more bud primordia, and had greater rhizome mass and healthier leaves than plants grown under extreme shade (95%) or in full sun. Decreasing shade density had a major impact on plant condition and growth. Those plants grown with the greatest sun exposure displayed 100% scorch damage to the foliage, in comparison to <35% damage in the moderate shade (30 to 40%). The results suggest that moderate shading may double yield in rhizome mass, and promote increased bud proliferation in subsequent seasons. Late season leaf vigor is not correlated with rhizome mass.
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