Growth Response of Two Kenikir (Cosmos caudatus Kunth.) Plant Varieties on Gamma Ray Irradiation

Abstract

Kenikir (Cosmos caudatus Kunth.) is a plant that has many benefits for human health because it contains high antioxidants. The aim of this research was to identify the growth response of two kenikir (Cosmos caudatus Kunth.) plant varieties on gamma ray irradiation. The research was conducted in the greenhouse of the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Sumatera Utara, with an altitude of 32 meters above sea level starting from March to June 2018. Kenikir seeds of Aswana IPB and Dramaga Kuning varieties were irradiated with gamma rays doses (90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140) using Co60 radiation sources. Observation variables observed were germination rate, plant height, number of leaves, age of flowering plants. 1 week after planting - 12 weeks after planting. Data were tested by t test using the Minitab 18 program. The results of this research showed that the Aswana IPB varieties in all observed variables; the average rate of irradiated plants varies and has differences when compared to the average rate of the control plants. The same results happened to Dramaga Kuning varieties.