Non-microbial Biostimulants for Quality Improvement in Fruit and Leafy Vegetables
摘要
The growing global population and health consciousness have increased demand for high-quality fruits and leafy vegetables, presenting opportunities and challenges for agricultural systems. Researchers are exploring non-microbial biostimulants to improve crop production and nutritional content. Non-microbial biostimulants, including plant hormones, chemical compounds, and mineral-based elements, enhance crop productivity by influencing growth, development, and stress tolerance. They increase crop resilience against environmental conditions, resulting in consistent and reliable yields. Furthermore, they reduce traditional fertilizer dependence by promoting efficient nutrient utilization and uptake, leading to sustainable agricultural practices. This reduces fertilizer usage, addresses economic and environmental concerns, and mitigates nutrient runoff. Non-microbial biostimulants such as seaweed extracts, protein hydrolysates, and combinations increase fruit quality, resulting in aesthetically appealing and rich in nutrients fruits that appeal to the tastes of consumers who prioritize health. Although they offer promise, they face challenges like compatibility, environmental impact, regulatory issues, and application optimization. A multidisciplinary strategy involving researchers, farmers, politicians, and industry partners is needed to overcome these obstacles. This chapter explores their mechanisms, current trends, and prospects, emphasizing the need for research and development to fully utilize these biostimulants in modern agricultural practices.