Allelopathic Effects of Hypochaeris Radicata L. for Developing Eco-Friendly Organic Materials

The study evaluated Hypochoeris radicata L. for developing eco-friendly organic materials by examining its growth, allelopathic effects, and antifungal activity. It was found that H. radicata L. had better growth in mowed areas compared to non-mowed areas. Water extracts from the plant inhibited seed germination and growth of 14 test plants and showed high antifungal activity against Pythium spp. and Phytophthora, but less against Rhizoctonia solani. Cutting the plant increased its vegetative and seed propagation, forming large colonies. Thus, H. radicata L. could be a potential candidate for environment-friendly organic materials due to its competitive dominance in the plant ecosystem of Jeju Island.