Biochar, Beneficial Microbes, and Agro-Industrial Byproducts in Seed Coatings: Improving Germination and Biomass in Multiple Crops
The development of sustainable seed coating formulations is essential to enhance crop performance while reducing reliance on synthetic inputs. This study evaluates biochar-enriched coatings incorporating olive pomace, buffalo digestate, and microbial consortia from <i>Fagus</i>, <i>...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
MDPI AG
2025-05-01
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| Series: | Horticulturae |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.mdpi.com/2311-7524/11/5/554 |
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| Summary: | The development of sustainable seed coating formulations is essential to enhance crop performance while reducing reliance on synthetic inputs. This study evaluates biochar-enriched coatings incorporating olive pomace, buffalo digestate, and microbial consortia from <i>Fagus</i>, <i>Quercus</i>, and <i>Pinus</i> forest litters, including <i>Trichoderma harzianum</i>, for their effects on seed germination and plant growth. Four crops (<i>Diplotaxis tenuifolia</i>, <i>Lactuca sativa</i>, <i>Solanum lycopersicum</i>, and <i>Zea mays</i>) were tested through germination assays and field trials. Treatments containing digestate or pomace alone significantly reduced germination and seedling growth in <i>D. tenuifolia</i> and <i>L. sativa</i> (below 25%, compared to control), due to the phytotoxic effects of ammonia, salts, and polyphenols. In contrast, biochar-based coatings mitigated these effects, enhancing germination and root elongation. The addition of <i>T. harzianum</i> further improved seedling establishment, likely by enhancing nutrient uptake and suppressing soilborne pathogens, with increases exceeding 100% (compared to control). Field trials confirmed these findings, showing that biochar–<i>T. harzianum</i> combinations improved both shoot and root biomass, particularly in <i>L. sativa</i> and <i>S. lycopersicum</i>. <i>Z. mays</i> displayed greater tolerance to raw by-products, though biochar remained essential for optimal growth. While forest-derived microbial consortia supported microbial balance, their effect on biomass was less pronounced. These results highlight the potential of biochar-based coatings, especially when combined with <i>T. harzianum</i>, as sustainable alternatives to conventional seed treatments. |
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| ISSN: | 2311-7524 |