1ASPEE College of Horticulture, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari- 396 450 (Gujarat), India
2College of Horticulture, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Jagudan (Gujarat), India
3Department of Vegetable Science, ASPEE College of Horticulture, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari (Gujarat), India
The use of seaweed extract in agriculture is increasing due to its potential benefits in sustainable and organic farming. Seaweeds contain polysaccharides that possess various properties such as anticancer, anticoagulant and antimicrobial. With over 200 economically important seaweed species, their extracts have shown positive effects on vegetable yield, nutrient uptake and tolerance to environmental stress. Seaweed extract also protect plants against pest and disease and promote seed germination and root development. The mechanism behind these benefits includes increased photosynthetic efficiency, improved water and nutrient uptake and the presence of plant hormones. Seaweed cultivation is gaining momentum particularly in coastal areas and countries like India. The utilization of seaweed in producing commercial products like alginate and agar further highlights its significance. Ultimately, the use of seaweed extracts as a bio-stimulant and bio-fertilizer offers a sustainable and environmentally friendly solution for improving vegetable production while reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers.
Bio-fertilizer, Bio-stimulant, Seaweed extract, Sustainable farming, Vegetable production
