Adaptation Strategy of Stevia in the Lowlands Through Pruning and Eco Enzyme Based on Morphofisiology Characteristics

Abstract

High solar radiation and temperature in lownlands can accelerate stevia’s life cycle, prompting earlier flowering and reducing nutritional content. Pruning is expected to stimulate lateral shoot growth, increasing branch count and consequently plant productivity. Additionally, enzymes in eco enzyme glycosides, which provide wetness. This study aimed to understand the adaptation of stevia grown in lownland areas with shoot pruning and eco enzyme treatments. The research was conducted on agricultural land at USU (3°33' S, 98°39' E, 28 m asl) from July to September 2024, using a randomized block design with two treatment (pruning and eco enzyme) and three replications. Results showed that pruning at 4 WAP (weeks after planting) delayed flowering up to 78 DAP (days after planting), increased total chlorophyll a and b, and tended to increase leaf number, branch-count, and canopy width, though these effects were not significant. Pruning at 8 WAP improved the root-to-shoot ratio. Eco enzyme application at 1 ml/L significantly affected the root-to-shoot ratio, and the best treatment combination was pruning at 4 WAP with eco enzyme at 1 ml/L. In conclusion, pruning and eco enzyme treatment improved stevia’s adaptability and productivity under lowland conditions.