Microalgae-Based Biostimulants Improve Biomass Production and Root-Linked Performance Stability in Pelargonium: A...

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Plant Science
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Limited evidence exists for microalgae biostimulants in ornamental production across multiple seasons.
• Protected ornamental cultivation often relies on high input levels.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of two microalgae strains as biostimulants in ornamental production over three years.
• To assess the impact of microalgae on plant biomass, root development, and structural traits.

Main Methods:

• A three-year polytunnel trial involving six Pelargonium cultivars.
• Application of two microalgae strains: Nostoc piscinale (MACC-612) and Chlorella vulgaris (MACC-922).
• Factorial general linear model used to analyze treatment effects on plant growth parameters.

Main Results:

• Significant increases in total dry mass (19.2% with MACC-612, 33.1% with MACC-922) and root mass (>22% for both).
• Significant improvements in plant height and root-collar diameter (R² = 0.89 for root-collar diameter and plant size).
• No significant treatment × year interactions, indicating consistent effects across seasons.

Conclusions:

• Microalgae biostimulants effectively improve biomass accumulation and root structural traits in Pelargonium.
• Consistent positive effects across three growing seasons suggest reliable performance in protected ornamental production.
• These findings support the use of microalgae to enhance plant vigor and potentially reduce inputs.