Effects of Sodium Nitroprusside on the Growth and Development of Melothria scabra

Abstract

This study examined the ideal concentration and application method of sodium nitroprusside for improving vegetative growth of melothria scabra (thumb watermelon) with the objective of providing a theoretical basis and technical guidance for reducing the cultivation period of watermelon and improving planting efficiency. [Methods] Uniform seedlings of Melothria scabra were selected and assigned for the experiment. Seven treatment groups were established:root irrigation at three sodium nitroprusside concentrations (1 mg/L, 2 mg/L, and 4 mg/L); foliar spraying at the same three concentrations; and a control group treated with water. The treatments were made every 5 days, a total of 4 times, with 10 mL of solution applied at each application per plant. Plant height, stem diameter, and leaf number were measured at regular intervals to assess the effects of the different treatments. [Results] All the sodium nitroprusside levels substantially contributed to the growth of Melothria scabra seedlings compared to the control. Root irrigation was consistently superior to foliar spraying in improving plant height, stem thickness, and leaf production. Among the treatments, root irrigation using 2 mg/L sodium nitroprusside showed the highest improvement, with plants attaining an average height of 79 cm, a mean stem diameter of 0.52 cm, and an average of 18 leaves. [Conclusion] The application of sodium nitroprusside would significantly increase the vegetative growth of Melothria scabra. Comprehensive evaluation of growth indicators indicates that root irrigation with a 2 mg/L solution of sodium nitroprusside is the most effective approach to improve plant vigor, providing technical support to reduce the growth cycle and increase crop productivity.