The power of seaweeds as plant biostimulants to boost crop production
under abiotic stress
Abstract
Seaweed-based biostimulant production is a growing industry in the last
decade due to the advantages of biostimulant application on crops. Here
we summarise the current findings of using these seaweed extracts (SE)
and highlight current knowledge gaps. SE can boost seed germination,
promote reproductive development (budding and flowering), facilitate
vegetative growth, modify shoot and root system architecture, improve
protein content, and enhance fruit taste and quality. Certain SE also
contribute to a healthy soil by facilitating water retention, soil
aeration and nutrient availability, thereby promoting plant growth.
Although seaweeds have been proposed as alternative protein food
sources, the use of seaweed extracts to instead boost yield and protein
production in crops may be a more efficient way to meet growing food
demand. We are highlighting the potential of SE for increased
productivity, especially in crops exposed to abiotic stress.