In the quest for sustainable and chemical-free agricultural practices, a recent study published in the journal ‘Plants’ has unveiled a promising technique that could revolutionize the way we cultivate microgreens. Researchers, led by Mayura Veerana from the Department of Applied Radiation and Isotopes at Kasetsart University in Bangkok, Thailand, have demonstrated that non-thermal plasma (NTP) treatment can significantly enhance the germination, growth, and nutritional quality of water convolvulus (Ipomoea aquatica) microgreens.
Water convolvulus, a fast-growing leafy vegetable, is prized for its nutritional and antioxidant properties. However, suboptimal seed physiology can often hinder its germination and early growth. The study explored the effects of NTP exposure on seeds, using a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma with an air gas flow rate of 1.5 liters per minute. The treatment durations varied from 0 to 20 minutes.
The results were striking. Plasma treatment of seeds increased germination in a time-dependent manner, with the surface hydrophilicity improving as the treatment time increased. Seedlings grown from seeds treated for 10 minutes exhibited notable improvements, including a 10.1% increase in shoot length and a 17.8% increase in root length. The shoot nitrate content also saw a significant boost of 66.3%.
Perhaps most intriguing were the changes in the seedlings’ phytochemical composition. At the 10-minute treatment mark, the total phenolics and flavonoids increased by 26.5% and 37.2%, respectively. These compounds are known for their antioxidant properties, and the study confirmed this with increased antioxidant activity as measured by DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays.
“This study highlights the potential of non-thermal plasma as a sustainable and chemical-free seed-priming technology,” said Mayura Veerana, the lead author of the study. “The improvements in germination, growth, nutrient assimilation, and antioxidant activity in water convolvulus seedlings are promising for enhancing the productivity and nutritional quality of microgreens in modern agriculture.”
The commercial implications of this research are substantial. As the demand for nutrient-rich, sustainably grown produce continues to rise, farmers and agritech companies are constantly seeking innovative methods to improve crop yield and quality. NTP treatment offers a viable solution, eliminating the need for chemical inputs and providing a more eco-friendly approach to seed priming.
The study’s findings could pave the way for further research into the applications of non-thermal plasma in agriculture. As Veerana and her team continue to explore this technology, the potential for enhancing the productivity and nutritional quality of a wide range of crops becomes increasingly apparent. This research not only advances our understanding of seed priming techniques but also offers a glimpse into the future of sustainable agriculture.
In an era where the intersection of technology and agriculture is more critical than ever, this study serves as a testament to the power of innovation in driving forward the agritech sector. As we look to the future, the integration of non-thermal plasma technology could very well become a cornerstone of modern farming practices, benefiting both producers and consumers alike.