Enhancing soybean yield with an Ascophyllum-based foliar biostimulant: combined greenhouse and field insights into nutrient and antioxidant response
摘要
This study evaluated the effects of foliar application of an Ascophyllum nodosum-based organomineral biostimulant on soybean (Glycine max) physiology and yield under both greenhouse and field conditions. The research aimed to examine physiological and biochemical responses associated with biostimulant use, particularly under water-limited conditions. In greenhouse trials, photosynthetic pigments and antioxidant enzyme activities (CAT, POX, SOD) were measured at two time points, including a period of water-limited conditions. In the field, the biostimulant was applied at the V4 stage, and redox enzyme activities and grain yield were monitored. Leaf nutrient content (P, K, Ca, Mg, Mn, Zn, Cu, and Ni) was analyzed via ICP-OES. Biostimulant application was associated with higher photosynthetic pigment concentrations (total chlorophyll + 60% at 7 days) and increased antioxidant enzyme activities (CAT + 17.3%, POX + 47.4%, SOD + 33.9% during water-limited conditions), suggesting enhanced oxidative stress tolerance. Foliar nutrient analysis revealed selective modulation, with increases in Ca, Mn, Ni, and Zn. Field trials showed an associated 10.2% increase in grain yield (3387.0 kg ha−1 vs. 3073.6 kg ha−1 in control plants). Overall, these findings indicate that the A. nodosum-based biostimulant is linked to improved soybean resilience and productivity through functional associations with redox activity and nutrient status, highlighting its potential as a sustainable tool for enhancing crop performance.