Magnetic fields: how is plant growth and development impacted?

Abstract

This review provides detailed insight on the effects of magnetic fields on germination, growth, development, and yield of plants focusing on ex vitro growth and development and discussing the possible physiological and biochemical responses. The MFs considered in this review range from the nanoTesla (nT) to geomagnetic levels, up to very strong MFs greater than 15 Tesla (T) and also super-weak MFs (near 0 T). The theoretical bases of the action of MFs on plant growth, which are complex, are not discussed here and thus far, there is limited mathematical background about the action of MFs on plant growth. MFs can positively influence the morphogenesis of several plants which allows them to be used in practical situations. MFs have thus far been shown to modify seed germination and affect seedling growth and development in a wide range of plants, including field, fodder, and industrial crops; cereals and pseudo-cereals; grasses; herbs and medicinal plants; horticultural crops (vegetables, fruits, ornamentals); trees; and model crops. This is important since MFs may constitute a non-residual and non-toxic stimulus. In addition to presenting and summarizing the effects of MFs on plant growth and development, we also provide possible physiological and biochemical explanations for these responses including stress-related responses of plants, explanations based on dia-, para-, and ferromagnetism, oriented movements of substances, and cellular and molecular changes.

Influence of the Static Magnetic Field and Algal Extract on the Germination of Soybean Seeds

“…However, these works usually come down to the economic calculation. Response of plant organisms to the magnetic field was varied [39][40][41]. This answer depended not only on the plant species, but also on the time of exposure, intensity and nature of the MF used in the experiment.…”

The Effect of Stationary and Variable Electromagnetic Fields on the Germination and Early Growth of Radish (Raphanus sativus)

“…Research on the influence of magnetic fields on biological systems began many decades ago, with recent detailed reviews provided by Maffei [12] and Teixeira da Silva and Dobránszki [13]. As both studies noted, there are many contradictory studies regarding the influence of magnetic fields on biological systems, and there is a pressing need to understand the actual mechanisms involved, if any.…”

Gibberellins are involved in effect of near‐null magnetic field on Arabidopsis flowering

“…The geomagnetic field (GMF) is an innate environmental factor to plants on Earth. However, the effect of GMF on plants has not been well demonstrated so far [Galland and Pazur, ; Teixeira da Silva and Dobranszki, ]. Research on the effect of near‐null magnetic field can elucidate the role of GMF on plants.…”