Mathematical Constants for Non-Destructive Rapid Method of Leaf Area Determination in Mulberry (Morus spp.)

Mathematical constants for multiplication with leaf length (I) or breadth (b) or l ${\times}$ b have been worked out for determining leaf area in promising mulberry genotypes viz., Chinese White, S-146, Chak Majra and Sujanpur Local of sub-tropical India. When pooled, the mathematical constants worked out were 8.1132, 10.1019 and 0.5992 for multiplication with leaf length, breadth and l ${\times}$ b, respectively, for genotypes bearing un-lobbed leaves and 6.9447, 8.2761 and 0.5009 for multiplication with leaf length, breadth and l ${\times}$ b, respectively for genotypes bearing lobbed leaves. Leaf area can be worked out by using any constant by multiplying either with leaf length or breadth or both (l ${\times}$ b). Estimated leaf areas worked out were found significantly and positively correlated with actual leaf area (r＝999$^{＊＊}$). The suggested present non-destructive method by using mathematical constants is very quick and alternative to electronic leaf area meter for spot leaf area determination in mulberry which is the only food source for mulberry silkworm in sericulture industry.