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Non-chemical Control of Root Parasitic Weeds with Biochar
Hanan Eizenberg1, Dina Plakhine1, Hammam Ziadne1
1Department of Plant Pathology and Weed Research, Newe Ya'ar Research Center, Agricultural Research OrganizationRamat Yishai, Israel.
Frontiers in Plant Science
|June 23, 2017
Summary
Soil biochar application effectively reduces parasitic weed (Phelipanche aegyptiaca) infection in tomato plants by inhibiting seed germination and root attachment. This innovative, non-chemical control method enhances tomato growth and supports climate change mitigation strategies.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Soil Science
- Plant Pathology
Background:
- Root parasitic weeds, such as Egyptian broomrape (Phelipanche aegyptiaca), cause significant crop losses.
- Current control methods often rely on chemical treatments, necessitating sustainable alternatives.
- Biochar, a charcoal-like substance, is explored for its potential soil amendment properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of soil-applied biochar on the germination and attachment of Phelipanche aegyptiaca.
- To evaluate the mechanisms by which biochar influences parasitic weed infestation in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) plants.
- To assess biochar as a non-chemical strategy for managing root parasitic weeds and its contribution to climate change mitigation.
Main Methods:
- Three experiments were conducted: pot trials with varying biochar concentrations, split-root hydroponic trials, and germination trials with a synthetic stimulant (GR-24).
- Quantified tomato and P. aegyptiaca biomass, root attachments, and P. aegyptiaca seed germination percentages.
- Investigated biochar's adsorption of signaling molecules, induction of plant defenses, and systemic effects on stimulant production.
Main Results:
- Soil biochar application significantly reduced P. aegyptiaca infection by decreasing root attachments and improving tomato plant growth.
- Biochar treatment in hydroponic systems lowered P. aegyptiaca seed germination and radicle attachment.
- The primary mechanism identified was the physical adsorption of germination stimulant molecules by biochar, not induced systemic resistance or toxicity.
Conclusions:
- Soil-applied biochar is an effective, non-chemical method for controlling Phelipanche aegyptiaca in tomato cultivation.
- Biochar's efficacy stems from its ability to adsorb crucial germination stimulants, thereby preventing weed establishment.
- This approach offers a sustainable pest management strategy and aligns with the climate change mitigation potential of biochar production.
