Foliar applications of K. alvarezii seaweed extract

increased soybean yield by 57%.

By applying two foliar sprays of Kappaphycus alvarezii seaweed extract at a concentration level of 12.5% (500g/ac), soybean yield was 57% higher as compared with the control. If average yield of soybeans is 45 bu/ac and soybeans sell for $10 per bushel, then an investment of $19.25/ac would yield a revenue increase of $256.50/ac for a net increase of $237.50/ac.  

Effect of K. alvarezii seaweed extract on the growth, yield and nutrient uptake of soybean (Glycine max) under rainfed conditions

S.S. Rathore a, D.R. Chaudhary b,⁎, G.N. Boricha b, A. Ghosh b,

B.P. Bhatt a, S.T. Zodape b, J.S. Patolia b

ICAR Research Complex, Nagaland Centre, Jharnapani, Nagaland, 797 106 India

Central Salt and Marine Chemicals Research Institute (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research), G. B. Marg, Bhavnagar, Gujarat, 364002 India

Received 18 October 2008; received in revised form 27 October 2008; accepted 30 October 2008

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy (kharif) season in Indian in 2006 to study the effects of foliar applications of different concentrations of seaweed extract (prepared from Kappaphycus alvarezii) on nutrient uptake, growth and yield of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] grown under rainfed conditions without the application of chemical fertilizers.

The foliar spray was applied twice at seven concentrations (0; 2.5; 5; 7.5; 10; 12.5 and 15% v/v) of seaweed extract.

Foliar applications of seaweed extract significantly enhanced yield parameters. The highest grain yield was recorded with applications of 15% seaweed extract, followed by 12.5% seaweed extract that resulted in 57% and 46% increases, respectively, compared to the control. The maximum straw yield was also achieved with 15% seaweed extract application. Improved nutrient uptake (N, P, K and S) was also observed with seaweed extract applications.  Thus, under rainfed soybean production, foliar applications of seaweed extracts could be a promising option for yield enhancement.

© 2008 SAAB. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

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