Biostimulatory Action of a Plant-Derived Protein Hydrolysate on Morphological Traits, Photosynthetic Parameters, and Mineral Composition of Two Basil Cultivars Grown Hydroponically Under Variable Electrical Conductivity

The research evaluated the effects of a plant-derived protein hydrolysate biostimulant on two basil cultivars, 'Eleonora' and 'Italiano Classico', grown hydroponically under different nutrient solution concentrations. The biostimulant improved morphological traits, photosynthetic parameters, and mineral composition of the basil plants. Specifically, it increased fresh yield, leaf area, and CO2 assimilation by 20.7%, 27.5%, and 17.6% respectively, at the maximum dose. It also reduced nitrate by 6.6% at the lower dose. The biostimulant increased total fresh weight by 18.99% and 22.63% for Eleonora and Italiano Classico, respectively, and increased all physiological parameters compared to the control. The use of the biostimulant could potentially offset a reduction in fertilizer input, offering potential economic benefits. The findings suggest that plant-derived protein hydrolysate can enhance the growth and productivity of hydroponically grown basil plants.