Comparative analysis of the influence of different biostimulators on the germination and sprouting behaviour of four wheat varieties

Abstract

Wheat is an important cereal around the world and is a nutrient source in people’s diets. In this work, we focused on the potential of some biostimulators on four wheat varieties - Dropia, Glosa, Gruia, and Pegasus, with a focus on the effects during the first developing stages from germination to the appearance of the second leaf. Our results indicated that germination and some biochemical traits can be strongly influenced by biostimulants, with the effects also depending on the genetic background of the variety. Some treatments proved beneficial for germination, and also growth as found by the biometric measurements, while others inhibited both traits. Some of the biostimulants increased the concentration of the photosynthetic compounds, thus being recommended for use during all stages of wheat development. Dropia, Glosa, and Gruia reacted positively in most tests, their germination and plant and root development were stimulated by Super fifty, Atonik, Asfac, and Cropmax. Thus, we recommend the use of these biostimulants in the first development stages. The concentrations of photosynthetic pigments increased after treatment with Asfac, Atonik, and Cropmax. The treatment showing the most inhibitory effects was Lebosol.