The effects of electroculture on shoot proliferation of garlic (Allium sativum l.)

Abstract

The Philippines is an archipelago that always experiences yearly devastating typhoons which hinders continuous agricultural crop production. Using an old horticulture technique called electroculture, supplied electric voltage can stimulate plant growth, improve crop quality, and increase crop yields as long as the contributing factors are present-dormancy and essential nutrients. Using garlic (Allium sativum L.), three set-ups were prepared: Control, 6 V, and 12 V electrocuted systems. Then, the effects of the supplied voltage in terms of plant height were visualized. The reaction of the garlic (A. sativum L.) to the application of voltage gave unfavorable results-the average height is relatively higher for the controlled system having 78.2 cm compared to the 6 V and 12 V set-ups of 55.7 cm and 57.1 cm, respectively. However, from the data of the 12th, 17th, 18th, 19th, 20th, 21st, 25th, and 26th day of the experimental period, the electricity applied somehow assisted the plant's growth. Drying and decrease in height were also visible during the 29th day of the experiment. Further experimentation and optimization can be done to substantiate the results of this present study.