The effect of organic manure and chemical fertilizer on essential oil, chemical compositions and antioxidant activity of dill (Anethum graveolens) in sole and intercropped with soybean (Glycine max)

Intercropping and the application of organic manure are important approaches for increasing of quantity and quality of plant products. In this experiment, chemical compositions and antioxidant activity of dill essential oil in sole crop and dill-soybean intercropping system under organic manure and chemical fertilizers were evaluated. The results showed that optimal yield of dill and the highest land equivalent ratio (LER) and antioxidant activity (2.43 mu g ml(-1)) of dill were achieved in pattern of two rows of soybean + one row of dill treated with organic manure. Carvone (22.06-49.66%), a-phellandrene (10.79- 34.49%), p-cymene (21.66-33.69%) and dillapiole (135-12.14%) were major chemical components of dill. The dill-soybean intercropping and application of organic manure enhanced the content of alpha-phellandrene and p-cymene as well. These major chemical compositions are useful for industrial use (food and pharmaceutical). So, according to different subjects of applying in industries it could be suggested especial treatment with favorite major compounds. In general, soybean-dill intercropping and the application of organic manure enhanced the productivity of dill and improved essential oil quality and antioxidant activity. (C) 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.