Abstract

Overview of Magnetic Field Effects on Plant Growth

Magnetic field (MF) effects have been extensively observed in various aspects of plant development including growth, seed germination, gene expression, and water consumption. These observations have led to the proposition of magnetic treatments as a sustainable method to enhance agricultural yields.

Comprehensive Analysis and Findings

A detailed multilevel meta-analysis was conducted, reviewing 45 scientific articles covering 29 different plant species. Findings indicated:

• A positive effect of nonuniform magnetic fields on the fresh weight of plants.
• A neutral effect on germination rates.
• A significant positive association between uniform magnetic fields and improved germination.

These results underscore that while magnetic fields can enhance plant growth, the outcomes are significantly influenced by the specific experimental setups used.

Conclusion and Implications for Future Research

The analysis suggests that nonuniform magnetic fields are particularly effective in increasing the fresh weight of various plant species, while uniform magnetic fields are more suited to boosting germination percentages over extended periods. This points to a nuanced understanding that plants might perceive and respond to magnetic field gradients rather than their sheer magnitude. These insights pave the way for further exploration of MF’s roles in plant growth, development, and evolution, potentially leading to innovative approaches in sustainable agriculture.