Summary of Plant biostimulants in greenhouse horticulture: recent advances and challenges ahead
Plant Biostimulants in Greenhouses: Enhancing Crop Productivity Naturally
Interest in plant biostimulants in greenhouses is rapidly growing, driven by commercial growers and private industries looking for sustainable solutions to improve vegetable and ornamental production. These biostimulants include natural substances and beneficial microorganisms that enhance plant growth, nutrient absorption, and resilience to environmental stress. Among the most studied are protein hydrolysates (PHs) and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). PHs are typically applied as foliar sprays or near the roots, whereas AMF can be delivered as powders, pellets, gels, or through seed coatings.
Key Benefits of Greenhouse Biostimulants
Using biostimulants in greenhouse crops offers multiple advantages. They can increase plant growth, yield, and fruit quality while helping crops tolerate abiotic stresses such as drought, salinity, and temperature extremes. By stimulating physiological processes and nutrient uptake, these treatments reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers. Moreover, they contribute to environmentally sustainable horticulture practices.
Recent Advances and Applications
Recent research has highlighted the mechanisms behind biostimulant action. For example, PHs promote enzymatic activity and root development, which enhances overall plant health. AMF, on the other hand, improve soil-plant nutrient exchange and strengthen stress resistance. Additionally, biostimulants can modulate plant responses to environmental challenges, ensuring stable productivity and quality in controlled greenhouse conditions.
By carefully integrating these approaches, growers can maximize crop performance while supporting sustainable agriculture goals. Ongoing studies continue to uncover new applications and benefits of PHs and AMF, promising further improvements in the productivity and quality of greenhouse-grown vegetables and ornamentals.
Publication: Acta Horticulturae
