Protein Hydrolysate Boosts Crops

Summary of EFFECTIVENESS OF A PLANT-DERIVED PROTEIN HYDROLYSATE TO IMPROVE CROP PERFORMANCES UNDER DIFFERENT GROWING CONDITIONS

Protein Hydrolysate Boosts Crops: Enhancing Growth and Nitrogen Uptake in Maize and Lettuce

This study investigated whether the use of a commercial plant-derived protein hydrolysate could enhance the growth and nitrogen uptake of maize and lettuce in a floating hydroponic system. Two nutrient solution concentrations were tested: full strength (100%) and reduced strength (10%). The results demonstrate that protein hydrolysates are effective biostimulants, improving growth, leaf nitrogen content, and overall plant performance.

Protein Hydrolysate Enhances Maize Biomass and Nutrient Efficiency

In the first experiment, maize roots were treated with protein hydrolysate at concentrations of 0, 0.25, 0.50, and 2.5 ml L-1. Increasing the concentration significantly improved plant height, shoot dry biomass, SPAD index, and leaf nitrogen content. A decrease in the root-to-shoot ratio indicated more energy allocation to above-ground growth. These results show that Protein Hydrolysate Boosts Crops by stimulating biomass accumulation and efficient nitrogen uptake in maize.

Foliar Protein Hydrolysate Applications Improve Lettuce Growth and Quality

The second experiment tested foliar applications at 0 and 2.5 ml L-1 on lettuce under reduced nutrient solution conditions. Weekly foliar sprays at 2.5 ml L-1 increased fresh weight biomass by 50%, SPAD index by 11%, and leaf nitrogen by 11%. This highlights that protein hydrolysates enhance crop performance even under nutrient-limited conditions, offering a practical solution for high-quality lettuce production.

Sustainable Crop Production with Protein Hydrolysate Treatments

Applying biostimulants like protein hydrolysate not only improves yield and crop quality but also supports environmentally friendly farming. By reducing the need for high nutrient inputs while maintaining strong growth, protein hydrolysates provide a reliable strategy for sustainable cultivation of high-value crops in hydroponic systems.