Summary of Appraisal of Biodegradable Mulching Films and Vegetal-Derived Biostimulant Application as Eco-Sustainable Practices for Enhancing Lettuce Crop Performance and Nutritive Value
Biostimulants Boost Lettuce: Enhancing Greenhouse Productivity and Quality
Biostimulants boost lettuce growth and quality when combined with innovative agricultural practices. Scientists, extension specialists, and growers are increasingly seeking sustainable solutions to ensure global food security while minimizing environmental impact. One effective approach involves using biodegradable mulching films alongside plant-derived biostimulants.
A greenhouse study evaluated the morpho-physiological and nutritive responses of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) to a tropical plant extract (PE) biostimulant and various plastic mulches. Two biodegradable films, Mater-Bi® 1 and Mater-Bi® 2, were compared with standard black polyethylene (LDPE) and bare soil. Results showed that Mater-Bi® 1 yielded comparable marketable fresh weight to LDPE, while Mater-Bi® 2 achieved the highest crop productivity.
When averaged over biostimulant applications, lettuce grown with Mater-Bi® 2 displayed superior quality traits, including higher K, Ca, total ascorbic acid, and carotenoid content. Biostimulants boost lettuce performance further: the combined use of PE biostimulant with any mulch significantly increased yield by 30%. PE application enhanced SPAD index, total chlorophyll, and mineral content (P +10%, Ca +17%) compared to untreated plants, while reducing nitrate content by 23%.
Notably, the synergistic effect of Mater-Bi® 2 mulch with PE biostimulant amplified total ascorbic acid by 168% over untreated lettuce. These findings demonstrate that biostimulants boost lettuce growth and nutritional value, offering a practical strategy for leafy vegetable growers. By adopting biodegradable mulches and vegetal-derived biostimulants, greenhouse production can become more sustainable and productive.
Publication: Agronomy
