Biostimulant Potential of Seaweed Extracts in Onion Seed Treatment

Abstract

Agriculture plays a fundamental role in the Brazilian economy, generating employment, wealth, and export revenues. The Irecê microregion in the state of Bahia is a notable center of agricultural production, particularly in onion cultivation, which contributes significantly to the local economy. However, onion crops face challenges such as diseases and pests, necessitating the adoption of modern management techniques. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of treating onion seeds with seaweed‑based biostimulants on seed germination and early seedling development, comparing biostimulant‑treated seeds with an untreated control group. The research also sought to provide producers with a scientific basis for achieving a more efficient and profitable production cycle. The variables analyzed included the Germination Speed Index (GSI), germination percentage (%G), fresh weight (FW), root system length (RSL), and shoot length (SL) across different biostimulant doses. The results demonstrated that the biostimulant positively influenced germination percentage and shoot length. Moreover, the use of the biostimulant did not increase the incidence of abnormal plants, thereby maintaining seedling quality. Consequently, seaweed‑based biostimulants represent a valuable tool for improving the productivity and quality of onion crops while promoting more sustainable and environmentally responsible agricultural practices. Nevertheless, further studies are needed to optimize application concentrations and evaluate long‑term impacts, thereby consolidating the use of such biostimulants in agriculture.