Combined application of humic fertilizers and carbon dioxide for improving cucumber growth

Abstract

Background and Aim. Global warming, driven by greenhouse gas emissions like carbon dioxide (CO₂) and methane (CH₄₎ poses a significant environmental challenge. Addressing this challenge requires strategies that simultaneously reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance agricultural efficiency. The large-scale use of fossil fuels contributes substantially to atmospheric CO₂: current annual emissions reach 3,2-3,6 billion tons. This study aimed to investigate the effect of carbon dioxide treated humic fertilizers on the growth and development of "Atlantis F1" cucumbers, exploring an innovative method of CO₂ utilization using humic substances (HS).

Materials and Мethods. A fertilizer was created by saturating humic substances, derived from oxidized brown coal with CO₂ gas, in a laboratory setting. Three 0.1% potassium humate solutions were then prepared: pure, CO₂ – saturated solution, and CO₂-saturated sludge. An experiment was conducted on cucumber cultivation under greenhouse conditions. Plant growth rate, leaf number, flowering, and heat tolerance were monitored.

Results. The carbon dioxide-saturated humic fertilizer positively influenced cucumber germination, leaf growth and flower development. The CO₂ saturated sludge fertilizer exhibited the most pronounced effects.

Conclusion. This study explores the synergistic effects of humic substances and CO₂ on plant growth contributing to sustainable agricultural practices that address the need for effective carbon management strategies.