The effect of electromagnetic fields on agricultural plants

Abstract

Lately, agrophysical methods are used more frequently in crop cultivation technologies. These methods include technological processes, where seeds of agricultural crops are exposed to electric, magnetic fields, electric current, light and ultrasound. One of the most promising opportunities of agrophysical methods usage in agriculture is the research on effect of electric and magnetic fields on agricultural crops. Through optimization of electric and magnetic field parameters (field strength, exposure and direction of the fields) it is possible to stimulate or inhibit germination dynamics of crop seeds, the plant growth, to predetermined yields and crop quality. Electric and magnetic fields have influence on crop seed germination dynamics. Exposure to electric and magnetic fields increases germination energy and germination capacity of seeds. Seed germination energy, germination, crop yields and crop quality are determined by the magnetic field strength, time of exposure and period after exposure. Light variable magnetic fields reduce weed germination energy and germination capacity, whilst stronger magnetic fields increase seed germination energy and germination itself. Steady exposure to magnetic fields has different effect on emerging seeds and young plants; it produces lasting effect, which has influence on crops and vegetables yields. Continuous exposure to stationary and variable magnetic fields has influence on morphological and physiological parameters of the first generation agricultural plants and on the second generation of plants after exposure. Magnetic fields have a lasting impact on morphological and physiological parameters of the second generation of plants after exposure.