Utilizing electromagnetic fields for enhancing root germination of cassava Kasetsart 50 varieties

• Published in: Australian journal of crop science Vol. 19; no. 3; pp. 266 - 273
• Main Authors: Chaiyarak, Taweesab, Sinsiri, Naris, Laosuwan, Teerawong, Khaengkhan, Phirayot
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 19.03.2025
• ISSN: 1835-2693; 1835-2707
• DOI: 10.21475/ajcs.25.19.03.p279

This study aimed to investigate the optimal duration and intensity of electromagnetic field exposure for enhancing root development in cassava (Kasetsart 50). A 5 x 5 factorial experiment with four replications was conducted in a greenhouse over a 30-day period. Two factors were examined: stimulation duration (0, 15, 30, 45, and 60 minutes) and electromagnetic field intensity (10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 mT). Various root morphological parameters were measured, including total root length, total surface area, root length/volume ratio, root volume, number of root tips, mean root diameter, root width, and surface area. Results indicated that both stimulation duration and electromagnetic field intensity significantly influenced root development. Notably, the combination of 45 minutes and 40 mT, as well as 60 minutes and 10 mT, yielded the most favorable outcomes, including increased root tips, total surface area, root volume, and mean root diameter. Additionally, total root length exhibited a strong positive correlation with total surface area (r = 0.9847**), root length/volume ratio (r = 0.602**), and root volume (r = 0.4328*). Conversely, a negative correlation was observed between the number of root tips and root diameter (r = -0.2427), as well as between root diameter and root width (r = -0.0586).