Wood Distillate and Soy Lecithin Synergistically Boost Lettuce Yield

Introduction

With the increasing shift towards sustainable agricultural practices, bio-based products like wood distillate (pyroligneous acid) are gaining attention for their ability to enhance plant growth and productivity. A recent study investigated the impact of foliar application of sweet chestnut wood distillate on the photosynthetic performance and growth of lettuce (*Lactuca sativa L.*), both alone and in combination with soy lecithin.

Experimental Design and Application

The study utilized lettuce seedlings of the *Canasta* variety under controlled laboratory conditions. The seedlings were divided into four treatment groups:

  • Control: Sprayed with mineral water.
  • Soy lecithin: Sprayed with a 1:500 dilution of 3% soy lecithin.
  • Wood distillate: Sprayed with a 1:500 dilution of wood distillate.
  • Wood distillate + soy lecithin: Sprayed with a 1:500 dilution of wood distillate plus 3% soy lecithin.

Each treatment was applied once, and plants were monitored for a week. Key parameters assessed included chlorophyll content, chlorophyll fluorescence, NDVI, and dry biomass.

Key Findings

Improved Chlorophyll Content

Wood distillate alone increased chlorophyll by +48-54%, while the combination with soy lecithin resulted in a +16-21% increase. Soy lecithin alone led to a +27% increase compared to the control.

Biomass Increase

Soy lecithin treatment increased biomass by +26%, wood distillate by +38%, and the combined treatment by +51%, demonstrating enhanced plant growth.

Photosynthetic Efficiency

No notable changes were observed in photosynthetic efficiency (FV/FM or PIABS), suggesting that the primary benefit of wood distillate is in biomass accumulation and chlorophyll enhancement.

Implications for Sustainable Agriculture

Wood distillate and soy lecithin together offer a promising strategy for natural crop productivity enhancement. As an agricultural surfactant, soy lecithin prevents foliar sprays from beading up and enhances absorption of wood distillate. This improved coverage may contribute to more effective treatment applications.

Conclusion

Foliar application of wood distillate at a 1:500 dilution significantly improved chlorophyll content and biomass in lettuce. Adding 3% soy lecithin further amplified these benefits, making this a valuable tool for sustainable agriculture.

Article based on: Effects of wood distillate and soy lecithin on the photosynthetic performance and growth of lettuce (*Lactuca sativa L.*)