In the heart of Isparta, Türkiye, a groundbreaking study is offering new hope for farmers grappling with drought-stressed crops. Researchers have found that biostimulants can significantly alleviate drought stress in Isparta rose (Rosa damascena), a valuable crop known for its essential oils used in perfumes and cosmetics. The study, led by Civan Çelik from Isparta University of Applied Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, was recently published in the journal BioResources.
Drought stress is a major challenge for farmers worldwide, limiting growth and productivity. The study aimed to evaluate the effects of different biostimulant applications on the antioxidant defense system and biochemical responses of R. damascena under varying irrigation levels. Plants were subjected to three irrigation regimes—100%, 50%, and 25% of field capacity (FC)—for 28 days. The treatments included vermicompost extract (V), Bacillus OSU-142 (B), and an algal extract (A) collected from Eğirdir Lake.
The results were promising. Under moderate (50% FC) and severe drought stress (25% FC), biostimulant treatments effectively reduced malondialdehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), and proline accumulation, and led to lower antioxidant enzyme activities compared to controls. “Bacillus OSU-142 and vermicompost were particularly effective treatments in mitigating oxidative damage and maintaining cellular homeostasis under severe water deficit,” said Çelik.
This research has significant commercial implications for the agriculture sector. As climate change continues to exacerbate water scarcity, farmers are increasingly seeking sustainable and cost-effective solutions to maintain crop productivity. Biostimulants, derived from natural sources, offer a promising avenue for enhancing crop resilience to abiotic stresses like drought.
The study’s findings suggest that biostimulants can reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and lipid peroxidation while modulating antioxidant defense in R. damascena. This could pave the way for developing new agricultural practices that rely less on chemical inputs and more on natural, sustainable solutions.
“These findings show that biostimulants reduce ROS accumulation and lipid peroxidation while modulating antioxidant defense in R. damascena,” Çelik explained. This could revolutionize how farmers approach drought management, potentially leading to higher yields and more sustainable farming practices.
As the agriculture sector continues to evolve, the integration of biostimulants into mainstream farming practices could be a game-changer. The study’s insights could inspire further research into the use of biostimulants for other crops, potentially transforming the way we approach agriculture in the face of climate change.
In conclusion, this research not only offers a beacon of hope for farmers but also underscores the importance of sustainable and innovative solutions in agriculture. As we navigate the challenges posed by climate change, studies like these are crucial in shaping the future of farming.