- ISSN: 2210-299X
- E-ISSN: 2210-3007
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oa Evaluation of Banana Waste Leaf Ash as a Sustainable Seed Treatment for Maize: Effective Dosage for Disease Control and Growth Enhancement
- Source: Current Indian Science, Volume 4, Issue 1, Jan 2026, E2210299X403566
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- 12 Apr 2025
- 21 Jul 2025
- 22 Dec 2025
Abstract
Conventional seed treatments often depend on synthetic fungicides and insecticides to control seed-borne pathogens during storage and germination. However, the high cost and environmental concerns associated with synthetic pesticides highlight the need for eco-friendly alternatives. This study investigates the potential of banana leaf ash (BLA) as a natural seed treatment.
Maize seeds were treated with different doses of BLA (5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 and 40 g/kg seed). Treated seeds were evaluated for their ability to control seed-borne diseases and enhance germination parameters. Key measurements included germination rate, shoot and root length and seedling dry weight.
ANOVA and DMRT analysis (p ≤ 0.05) revealed that major fungi (Aspergillus niger, Fusarium verticilloides, Rhizopus spp.) and minor fungi (Aspergillus flavus, Curvularia spp.) were effectively controlled by BLA. Disease incidence dropped from approximately 90% in untreated seeds to 20% with 5 g/kg BLA and 3% with 20 g/kg BLA. Germination and growth improved significantly. Root length and dry weight increased 2-3× while shoot length and dry weight rose 1.2-1.4× compared to the control.
BLA effectively reduced disease incidence and promoted germination at moderate doses. Its alkaline nature likely contributes to antifungal effects. However, excessive application caused phytotoxicity, reducing growth.
At optimal doses, BLA offers a sustainable, low-cost alternative for disease control and seedling growth promotion. Higher doses may hinder development, requiring careful application rate selection.
