Systematic Investigation of the Effects of Seven Plant Extracts on the Physiological Parameters, Yield, and Nutritional Quality of Radish (Raphanus sativus var. sativus)

Abstract

The modern agricultural sector faces the challenge of addressing the needs of the fast-growing global population. This process should be both high-yielding and sustainable, without creating risks for the environment and human health. Therefore, natural products are gaining attention in the production of safe and nutritious food. In a systematic effort to develop affordable and effective biostimulants, we examined the impact of botanical extracts on the growth and physiological parameters of radish plants under field conditions. Ultrasound-assisted extraction, mechanical homogenization, and water were used for the production of potential plant-based biostimulants. Foliar applications of the bio-products, developed and used in our study, have led to an increase in the examined parameters (total yield, dry weight, photosynthetic pigments, vitamin C, nitrates, and micro- and macroelements). A decrease in the total phenolic compounds content was also noted, as well as a varied impact on the steam volatile compounds, fatty acids, sterol, and glucosinolates composition. The most beneficial effects on radish, in terms of physiological and biochemical properties, were found in groups treated with extracts based on the common dandelion, valerian, and giant goldenrod. This innovative approach presented in our study could provide a valuable tool for sustainable horticultural production.

Biostimulants induce positive changes in the radish morpho-physiology and yield

“…An increasing population along with climate change has threatened agricultural production. Today's need is to develop new sustainable products to increase production and yield and support organic farming (Godlewska et al, 2021 ). In this scenario, biostimulants can play an environment-friendly role to increase crop productivity, which is associated with the minimal use of chemical fertilizers.…”

“…Conventional agricultural patterns that include excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides have increased crop production but have negatively impacted food quality and environmental sustainability (Chouhan et al, 2021 ). The excessive use of chemical fertilizers contributes to groundwater and atmospheric pollution, poor food quality, increased input cost with lower outputs, deterioration of the soil quality and fertility status, reduced nutrient efficiency, susceptibility to pathogens, nutrient leaching, greenhouse gases emission, and other abiotic stresses (Rahman and Zhang, 2018 ; Godlewska et al, 2021 ; Wan et al, 2021 ).…”

“…Radish is of various cultivars, including shapes (oval, round, spindle, icicle, cylindrical, long, conical, half long), color (white, red, pink, black, purple), and flavor. The crop is cultivated worldwide on a large scale; its extensive cultivation is better due to its taste, high nutritional content, low calories, and myriad health benefits (Godlewska et al, 2021 ). In Asia, it is one of the most economically important crops; it is cultivated for its soft leaves and root, which is consumed raw, dried, pickled, or simmered (Lee and Park, 2020 ).…”

“…In Asia, it is one of the most economically important crops; it is cultivated for its soft leaves and root, which is consumed raw, dried, pickled, or simmered (Lee and Park, 2020 ). Radish has also been reported to reduce health risks associated with cancer, stone formation, constipation, jaundice, and anxiety (Godlewska et al, 2021 ). As per published data, biostimulants play a vital role in the yield enhancement of various vegetables along with controlled chemical fertilization.…”

Microbial Inoculants as Plant Biostimulants: A Review on Risk Status

“…In ecosystems, plant-active compounds known as allelochemicals, which are known to mediate plant interactions, receive more attention regarding sustainable crop management [ 1 ]. Recent studies exploring biostimulatory effects of higher plant botanicals on white hat cabbage and radish have led to valuable additions for the vegetable plant under study [ 62 , 63 ]. Further study is required to establish the biostimulatory effects of these botanicals.…”