The influence of Red Light (RL) and Effective Microorganism (EM) application on soil properties, yield, and quality in wheat cultivation

Abstract

The aim of the study was to determine the impact of red light (RL) and effective microorganisms (EMs) on the wheat yield of grain and straw, as well as the quality (protein, carbohydrates, gluten, index of sedimentation (SDS index), germination capacity). Moreover, the experiments measured the granulometric composition and pH of soil, as well as its content of microelements and major nutrients, including heavy metals. The field experiment was conducted in 2017, 2018, and 2019 at the experimental station (Felin) of the University of Life Sciences in Lublin (Poland). The best results in terms of overall yield, protein content, and SDS index were obtained after the red light treatment (RL). The three-year application of effective microorganisms (EMs) in the soil had a positive impact, relative to the control, on the grain yield, straw yield, starch, SDS index, and germination capacity. A slight decrease was observed in terms of the protein content. After the application of effective microorganisms (EMs) in soil, changes were observed in the soil's granulometric composition, pH, humus, and microelements.