Impact of Organic and Nano Fertilizers on Biosynthesis of Active Compounds in Fenugreek (Trigonella Feonum-graeum L.)

Abstract

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) is a well-known medicinal and aromatic plant that contains diverse bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins and essential vitamins. The biosynthesis of these compounds is the target of sustainable fertilization strategies to increase plant quality and therapeutic value. Field experiment was carried out at the College of Science, Wasit University, to study the effect of foliar application of organic and nano-fertilizers, alone and in combination on growth, and biochemical characteristics in fenugreek plant. Results indicated that the sprayed plants, especially those getting a simultaneous spray with nano-fertilizers and organic, presented an observable increase in vegetative height as compared to unsprayed control. Plant canopy, number of branches and leaf development significantly increased after treatment. In addition, the foliar application increased the nutrient absorption as indicated by increase in tissue NPK content and improvement of biosynthesis of major bioactive metabolites. However, concentration of vitamin C and E in plants treated with combination also was significantly increased, demonstrating an efficient activity of metabolism, antioxidant and biosynthetic capability in plants. Data indicates that the combination of nano and organic fertilizer may be an excellent and sustainable approach for enhancing growth, nutrient uptake, as well as the synthesis of medicinally important metabolites in fenugreek. These are also consistent with ecological agriculture and make contributions to high-quality medicinal plant crude drug production.