Hydrogels improved parsley (Petroselinium crispum(Mill.) Nyman) growth and development under water deficit stress

Abstract

Water scarcity is one of the most pressing problems facing countries in the semi-arid and arid regions of the world. Data predicts that by 2030, global water consumption will increase by 50%, leading to severe water shortages. Today, agricultural production consumes more than 70% of fresh water in many parts of the world, increasing the pressure on water scarcity. For these reasons, agricultural production models and approaches should be developed to reduce water consumption. One developed approach is the use of hydrogel to reduce water consumption and have a positive effect on plant growth. This study investigated the use of hydrogels as chemical components that can be used in water shortage conditions and against the expected water scarcity. Parsley was used as the model organism. The method used was as follows: two different water treatments (50% and 100%) and four different hydrogel concentrations (0%, 50%, 75%, and 100%) were applied, and root width and length, leaf width and length, main stem length, and the number of tillers were measured. According to the results, while no improvement was observed in the plants with 100% hydrogel concentration, the best results were obtained from 50% hydrogel application. The results obtained from 75% hydrogel application were found to be higher than those of 100% hydrogel but lower than 0% hydrogel application. With 50% hydrogel (water-restricted), all plant growth parameters were higher compared to the plants with 100% (full irrigation) water application. It was determined that the average value of the I1 (50%) irrigation was the highest (3.6), and the average value of the I2 (100%) irrigation (2.4) was the lowest. It was determined that the highest average value (6.2) in all measured traits was the average value of the H1 (50%) application, and the lowest average value (0.0) was in the H3 hydrogel applications (100%). In conclusion, this study suggested that hydrogel application is beneficial on a large scale, can optimize water resource management for higher yields in agriculture, and has a positive effect on agricultural yield under water deficit stress.

Assessment of energy cane bagasse-derived cellulosic microfiber hydrogels on the growth of potted chili peppers

“…Patra et al (2022) [ 48 ] further highlights the role of porous structures in hydrogels- promoting healthy root respiration and building a stronger system to support increased shoot growth through improved soil-air circulation. Contributing to this, Yangyuoru et al (2009) [ 49 ] report on the direct water uptake from hydrogel particles by plants when required, while Mu et al (2021) [ 50 ] emphasize the hydrogels' ability to buffer soil conditions during stress, further supporting the function of both roots and shoots [ 51 ].…”

Unveiling Superabsorbent Hydrogels Efficacy Through Modified Agronomic Practices in Soybean–Wheat System Under Semi‐Arid Regions of South Asia

“…The capacity of soil to retain water is amplified tremendously to the tune of 56%-81%, depending upon soil type, when hydrogels are added to them (Saha, Gupt, and Sekharan 2021). Combining the use of hydrogels made from polyacrylates with that of a controlled-release or coated fertiliser increases their efficacy (Karipcin 2023). However, the rapid decomposition of biogel makes it inapt for use in soil-based applications (Dhanapal et al 2021;Song et al 2020).…”

“…However, the rapid decomposition of biogel makes it inapt for use in soil-based applications (Dhanapal et al 2021;Song et al 2020). Hydrogels exhibiting enhanced stability across one or many plant growth cycles while undergoing degradation in soil are better suited for their economical use (Hasija, Sharma, and Kumar 2018;Karipcin 2023). Consequently, the degradation of hydrogels and their water holding ability have implications for crop yields when applied to the soil.…”