https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9423-9519
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Abstract
Owing to its hand-picked flower heads and its applications in organic farming systems, Egyptian chamomile has a good reputation in export markets. This study was carried out to evaluate the growth, productivity and oil quality of chamomile during two successive seasons in El-Sharkia, Egypt, at four different locations, which differed greatly in the salinity of soil and irrigation water. Salinity did not negatively impact yield or essential oil contents. The greatest yield and essential oil content were obtained under high-salinity conditions. Total of 28 compounds were identified. Oxygenated sesquiterpenes were more abundant under high-salinity conditions, while sesquiterpene hydrocarbons were more abundant under low-salinity. The main components were differentiated across locations and harvest times. The main components were bisabolol oxide A, cis-β-farnesene, bisabolol oxide, and bisabolol oxide B. Bisabolol oxide A contents were much greater under high-salinity, while cis-β-farnesene contents were much greater under low-salinity. These results confirmed the impact of soil properties on the quality and productivity of chamomile. By avoiding salt accumulation, the chamomile plants were highly resistant to salinity stress. Increased flower yields and essential oil contents were observed under high-salinity stress, and farmers are encouraged to grow chamomile where saline soil and/or saline irrigation water are present.