Determination of the effects of different iron sources on the growth of blackberry under "in vitro" conditions

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of different forms of iron on blackberry plants, aiming to mitigate the adverse effects of iron deficiency on plant growth. In particular, the efficacy of iron nanoparticles compared to conventional iron sources was evaluated. The research holds significance for assessing the potential use of next-generation fertilizers in sustainable agricultural practices. The experiment utilized Sequestrene® 330, FeSO4·7H2O, C10H12N2NaFeO8 and Fe3O4 NP nanoparticles (at concentrations of 0.01, 0.10, and 1.00 mg L-1). Parameters such as fresh and dry weight, plant height, leaf number, leaf area, stem diameter, and chlorophyll and carotenoid contents were measured. The highest fresh weight was recorded in the Sequestrene® 330 treatment (0.759 ± 0.004 g), while the lowest was observed in the control group (0.164 ± 0.001 g). Dry weight was also highest in the Sequestrene® 330 group (0.205 ± 0.000 g). Plant height (4.166 ± 0.030 cm), leaf number (9.169 ± 0.940), chlorophyll-a content (0.026 ± 0.006), and carotenoid content (0.056 ± 0.730) were likewise greatest in this treatment. Notably, the Fe3O4 nanoparticles at 1.00 mg L-1 produced the largest leaf area (2.694 ± 0.006 cm²). In conclusion, Sequestrene® 330 proved to be the most effective traditional iron source in terms of biomass production. Meanwhile, Fe3O4 nanoparticles showed promising results in physiological parameters such as leaf area and chlorophyll-a content. These findings suggest that, with appropriate dosage and formulation, iron nanoparticles could serve as alternative fertilizers, supporting plant growth and contributing to increased biomass and yield. Future studies are recommended to optimize nanoparticle iron dosages and evaluate their effects under soil conditions.