Soil salinization stands as one of the most prevalent and severe issues in agricultural production. Typically triggered by excessive fertilization, improper irrigation, or inadequate drainage, this problem can wreak havoc on crop growth. When salt accumulates to high levels in the soil, it disrupts the water uptake process of crops, inhibits root development, and ultimately leads to significant yield reduction or even plant death. However, the combined application of betaine and seaweed fertilizers has emerged as an effective solution, empowering crops to resist salt damage, improve soil conditions, and boost agricultural productivity.
Betaine, a natural osmolyte, plays a crucial role in maintaining water balance within plant cells. In high-salt environments, it reduces osmotic pressure, enhancing the efficiency of water absorption and alleviating dehydration stress caused by salt damage. Beyond that, betaine stimulates the synthesis of stress-resistant substances such as proline, significantly improving crops’ tolerance to salt stress and enabling them to thrive in saline-alkali soils.
Seaweed extracts, on the other hand, are rich in cytokinins, polysaccharides, mannitol, and antioxidants. These components stimulate root development, enhancing the ability of crops to absorb water and nutrients. The mannitol and polyphenols in seaweed extracts possess antioxidant properties, minimizing cellular damage caused by salt stress and boosting the photosynthetic efficiency of plants. Additionally, seaweed fertilizers promote soil microbial activity, improve soil structure, and mitigate the direct impact of salt on roots.
To maximize the effectiveness of these fertilizers, both foliar spraying and root drip irrigation are recommended application methods. Foliar spraying quickly replenishes the salt-resistant components within crop cells, reducing leaf damage caused by salt stress. Drip irrigation, conversely, promotes root growth, enhances soil permeability, and facilitates the leaching and dilution of soil salts.
Numerous studies and field trials have demonstrated that the combined application of betaine and seaweed extracts significantly improves crop survival rates in saline-alkali fields, enhances plant growth, and increases both yield and quality. This technology effectively addresses soil salinization issues caused by excessive fertilization, offering a reliable solution for sustainable agriculture. With the continuous advancement of agricultural technology, further optimization of application strategies will undoubtedly enhance crop salt tolerance and unlock the production potential of saline-alkali lands.