Biostimulant Basil Growth as a Sustainable Hydroponic Strategy
Biostimulant Basil Growth plays a crucial role in improving the sustainability of hydroponic basil production, particularly in urban environments where year-round cultivation is essential. Although hydroponic systems allow efficient land and water use, they often depend heavily on chemical fertilizers. Consequently, growers increasingly seek eco-friendly solutions that maintain yield while reducing environmental impact. In this context, biostimulants offer a promising alternative to conventional nutrient management.
Impact of Biostimulant Basil Growth on Yield and Plant Performance
This study investigated the productive and physiological responses of two Genovese basil cultivars, Eleonora and Italiano Classico, grown in a floating raft hydroponic system for industrial pesto production. Plants developed for 22 days under two nutrient solution electrical conductivities (1 and 2 dS m⁻¹). In addition, growers applied protein hydrolysate biostimulants at two concentrations, 0.15 and 0.30 mL L⁻¹.
Overall, nutrient solution concentration alone did not significantly affect fresh yield. However, the higher biostimulant dose clearly improved plant performance. Specifically, Biostimulant Basil Growth increased fresh yield, leaf area, and CO₂ assimilation by 20.7%, 27.5%, and 17.6%, respectively. As a result, plants showed stronger physiological activity and greater biomass accumulation. Moreover, these improvements occurred without increasing fertilizer input, which further supports sustainable production goals.
Quality Improvements Linked to Biostimulant Basil Growth
Beyond yield enhancement, biostimulant application also improved basil quality. Notably, the lower biostimulant dose reduced nitrate content by 6.6% compared with untreated plants. Therefore, growers can achieve healthier products while meeting strict quality standards for fresh and processed basil.
Sustainable Benefits for Industrial Basil Production
In conclusion, integrating hydroponic cultivation with protein hydrolysate biostimulants represents an effective approach to modern basil farming. Biostimulant Basil Growth enhances productivity, improves physiological efficiency, and reduces nitrate accumulation. Furthermore, this strategy helps lower fertilizer costs and environmental pressure. Consequently, it offers a valuable solution for sustainable basil production in both urban and industrial hydroponic systems.
