The paper is a review of the literature on the application of biodegradable materials (agroplastics) in modern agriculture, and particularly in horticulture. Agroplastics are used within the so-called plasticulture system-in mulches, different forms of plant covers, pots for seedlings, strings, and other materials. Although they leave behind a considerable amount of waste, their recycling has been implemented in only some European countries. The positive solution of this environmental problem lies in propagation and implementation of biodegradable plastics in agricultural practice. In order to achieve this, a clear system of classification and assessment has been introduced in the European Union. Results of experiments with biodegradable plastics applications as soil and plant covers, and their impact on the environment are presented.
The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of biostimulants enhancing plant growth and development, i.e. organic stimulator based on metal sulphates, Bacillus subtilis, humic acids, on the chemical composition and level of bioactive compounds in garlic leaves, stems, and bulbs. The study was conducted in three growing seasons on the ‘Ornak’ winter garlic cultivar. The propagating material was treated in solutions of the biostimulants and after emergence the plants were sprayed with the products three times. The most valuable edible organ proved to be the leaves, which contained the most protein, fat, and mineral components expressed as ash, were the richest source of fibre, vitamin C, and polyphenols, and also had the highest antioxidant activity among the organs tested. The nutritional value of the stems was comparable to that of the bulbs, and the level of polyphenols and antioxidant activity were even higher. The use of the growth and development biostimulants influenced the chemical composition of the garlic, but the effect was modified by the course of weather in different years of the research and also depended on edible organ. On average for years and organs all biostimulants increased the level of protein, minerals expressed as ash and enhanced antioxidant activity, whereas decreased the level of total carbohydrates.
The publication presents the current state of knowledge regarding the importance of mulching in the cultivation of Cucurbitaceae (cucurbit, or gourd family) vegetables. The intensifying climate change – mainly decreasing rainfall – combined with large-scale production of cucurbit vegetables worldwide prompt the application of methods that reduce evaporation and weed infestation. One of the widespread methods is mulching of the soil. The most important advantages of this treatment include the efficient use of water, the reduction in soil erosion and in the leaching of nutrients to the deeper layers. In addition, mulching improves the physical and chemical properties of the soil, and positively affects the surrounding microclimate of the plant. The report includes descriptions of the characteristics of various types of organic, mineral and synthetic mulches used. The results of studies on the environmental conditions forming in mulched soil are presented. Also, the results of research into the physico-chemical properties of mulch-covered soil are collated. The effect of mulching on cucurbit vegetables was evaluated in terms of plant growth and development as well as fruit yield and its biological value. The monograph also deals with the effect of mulching on weed infestation, as well as the occurrence of harmful and beneficial organisms.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.
hi@scite.ai
10624 S. Eastern Ave., Ste. A-614
Henderson, NV 89052, USA
Copyright © 2024 scite LLC. All rights reserved.
Made with 💙 for researchers
Part of the Research Solutions Family.