The Impact of Aqueous Extracts of Verbesina sphaerocephala and Verbesina fastigiata on Germination and Growth in Solanum lycopersicum and Cucumis sativus Seedlings

Abstract

The use of extracts derived from different plants has gained popularity as an alternative option to manage weeds and support phenological development in plants. One of the main problems facing agricultural production is the intensive application of chemical fertilizers that harm the environment. This study investigated the biostimulant effects of the aqueous extracts of Verbesina sphaerocephala and Verbesina fastigiata on the germination and growth of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) and American cucumber (Cucumis sativus) seedlings. The aqueous extracts of both species of Verbesina were tested at concentrations of 0.5 and 1%. Seed germination and seedling development under nursery conditions were evaluated. The seed germination percentage was reduced in all treatments with the extracts of both Verbesina species when compared to that of the control treatment, which was considered an allelopathic effect. However, seedling growth in pots showed different behavior, with the extracts beneficially affecting certain agronomic variables, such as root and leaf length. The results suggest potential uses for V. sphaerocephala and V. fastigiata extracts, although a greater range of action may be experienced through the effects of certain molecules on weed growth. Additional studies with chemical approaches are necessary to better direct the uses and applications of Verbesina biomolecules, as they also functioned as growth promoters.