Abstract

Growth and production of five medicinal crops (Foeniculum vulgare Mill, Linum usitatissimum L., Nigella sativa L., Anethum sowa Benth and Hook and Carum copticum Benth and Hook) were evaluated at Quetta and Kalat in Balochistan during 2005. The seeds of these crops were obtained from the Arid Zone Research Center, Quetta. Various growth (plant height, branches per plant) and yield components (umbels per plant, seeds per umbels and seed yield) were recorded. Significant (P < 0.05) differences for growth and yield were recoded at both sites. F. vulgare and L. usitatissimum produced the highest yield at both sites (more than 1000 kg/ha). A. sowa and N. sativa seed yield recorded less than 1000 kg/ha while the seed yield of C. copticum was less than 700 kg/ha. The sowing of these crops in highlands of Balochistan should be carried out during the months of late February or early March to avoid the seedling damage by cold or low temperatures. Results indicate that these crops have potential of cultivation and diversification of cropping systems in Balochistan. The production can be enhanced by using new high yielding varieties with proper production technology and management practices.

Key words: Medicinal crops, seed yield, production technology.