Physio-Chemical Changes During Reproductive Phase in Azadira Chtaindica A. Juss. (Neem) Affecting Yield Potential

The in vivo morpho-physiological responses in Neem (A. indicd) were studied during the annual reproductive flush from bud development onwards to seed set. Number of buds and flowers per inflorescence, and physiological responses were observed. Sample protein, total sugar and reducing sugar were measured. Low contents of the above compounds resulted in poor flowering response and longer juvenility. The enzyme assay measuring the activities of invertase, protease, acid-and alkaline phosphatases was consistent with the biochemical response. In effect, a shorter regeneration phase seems to lead to lower productivity in terms of floral inflorescence and fruit set. Therefore, it is suggested that well formed regeneration initials may regulate the reproductive phase resulting in improved organ/biomolecule production.