Seasonal Variation in Oil Content and Its Composition in Two Chemotypes of Scented Geranium (<i>Pelargonium</i>sp.)

Abstract

ABSTRACT Variations in oil content and the chemical composition of the oil of two chemotypes (G-1 and G-2) of scented geranium were investigated in different seasons in a semiarid tropical climate in south India. The results showed that weather parameters such as atmospheric temperatures and rainfall have influenced the oil content and its chemical composition. Increases in maximum temperatures reduced oil content in G-1, increased citronellol in G-1 and G-2, and increased citronellyl formate in G-1. Rainfall increased geraniol in G-2. Geraniol and citronellol in G-1 were highly negatively correlated.