2025, Vol. 13, Issue 1, Part B

author(s)
Napatra Boonrung, Somchai Phung and Pimchanok Sriraksa

abstract
This research undertakes a comparative evaluation of secondary metabolite profiles in lilies cultivated under distinct experimental plantation designs. Lilies (Lilium spp.) are known not only for their ornamental value but also for their rich repertoire of bioactive secondary metabolites—such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, sterols, and alkaloids linked to antioxidative, antimicrobial, and potential nutraceutical applications ^{[1, 2]}. Variations in cultivation systems including layout, soil structure, spacing, light interception, and nutrient regimes—may influence metabolic synthesis and accumulation in plant tissues ^{[3, 4]}. Furthermore, in coastal or challenging environments such as the Sundarbans delta, the plantation design must adapt to abiotic stressors (salinity, cyclone exposure, high humidity), which may in turn affect biosynthetic pathways of secondary metabolism ^[5]. This research addresses the gap concerning how plantation design modulates metabolite accumulation in lilies under experimental conditions. Specifically, the objectives were to quantify and compare key classes of secondary metabolites (phenolic acids, flavonoids, saponins) in lily bulbs and shoots grown under three plantation designs (standard spacing, high?density, and raised?bed coastal design) and to determine whether plantation design significantly influences metabolite concentration. The hypothesis was that plantation design significantly affects the concentration and distribution of secondary metabolites in lilies, with raised?bed coastal design promoting higher metabolite accumulation compared to standard and high?density layouts due to enhanced stress?adaptive biosynthesis. Findings from this evaluation will inform horticultural practice for cultivating lilies as functional or value?added crops.