The effect of biostimulants on parsnip seed germination and initial growth

Abstract

Biostimulants are used for seed quality and performance improvement. However, the impact of biostimulants on parsnip seed quality has not been examined. Slow germination of parsnip is often further impeded by stress conditions. This study therefore aimed to assess whether treatments with different biostimulants could enhance seed germination and the initial seedling growth of parsnip. Amino acid and micronutrient-based biostimulants (0.2% solutions (v/v) of Technokel Amino Mix® and Megafol®) improved germination of parsnip seeds under optimal conditions, while biostimulant treatments with humic acid, fulvic acid and micronutrients (0.02% solution (v/v) of Organiko®) enhanced the initial growth. Our findings validate the potential of biostimulant application as a seed treatment. Determination of the main physiological causes of parsnip germination enhancement is needed in further research.