Summary of Protein Hydrolysate or Plant Extract-based Biostimulants Enhanced Yield and Quality Performances of Greenhouse Perennial Wall Rocket Grown in Different Seasons
Biostimulants Enhance Greenhouse Wall Rocket Yield and Quality
Recent research has focused on sustainable approaches to improve vegetable crop performance. In southern Italy, a study evaluated the effects of two plant biostimulants—Legume-derived protein hydrolysate (Trainer®) and Tropical plant extract (Auxym®)—compared to untreated controls across three crop cycles: autumn–winter, winter, and winter–spring. The investigation assessed leaf yield, photosynthesis, leaf colour, quality, mineral content, and antioxidant activity.
Biostimulants Improve Leaf Growth and Productivity
Both plant biostimulants, rich in amino acids and soluble peptides, significantly enhanced plant growth and leaf yield. Additionally, Auxym® contains small amounts of phytohormones and vitamins, further improving performance. Interestingly, the winter–spring cycle produced higher yields than the winter cycle, suggesting that combining biostimulants with optimal timing can maximize productivity.
Boosting Nutritional and Functional Quality
Moreover, applying biostimulants increased leaf dry matter, oxalic and citric acids, calcium and phosphorus, phenols, ascorbic acid, and antioxidant activity. Importantly, nitrate levels did not rise, maintaining safe, high-quality produce. Consequently, these treatments improve both yield and the nutritional value of greenhouse wall rocket leaves.
Understanding How Biostimulants Work
The observed benefits may result from improved mineral nutrient availability and uptake. Furthermore, seasonal effects influenced quality, with winter–spring crops showing higher antioxidant content than winter crops. These findings demonstrate that careful use of plant biostimulants can support sustainable crop management while enhancing vegetable quality.
Conclusion: Sustainable Strategies for Greenhouse Wall Rocket
In conclusion, the legume-derived protein hydrolysate and tropical plant extract provide an effective tool to increase yield, nutrition, and antioxidant properties of greenhouse wall rocket. By combining biostimulants with proper crop cycles, growers can achieve higher productivity and functional quality in an environmentally friendly way.
Publication: Plants
