Evaluating the Impact of UVC Exposure on Forage Maize Seeds under Hydroponic Condition

Abstract

Background: UV radiation, with shorter wavelengths than visible light, plays a pivotal role in stimulating growth processes and boosting the synthesis of beneficial compounds in plants. Moreover, it triggers morphological changes and genetic responses, shaping plants’ physical traits and adaptability. Nevertheless, a nuanced understanding is necessary as excessive UV exposure can also cause harm, underscoring the complexity of the relationship between UV radiation and plants. The study aimed to evaluate the effect of ultraviolet C (UVC) light exposure on the germination and growth of forage maize seeds under controlled conditions in an indoor crop. One sample of seeds was exposed to UVC light, while the other was not. Methods: The experiment was carried out for 14 days, with the plants subjected to mixed blue-red light, fertigation and kept at a maximum external temperature of 30°C and maximum internal temperature of 25.1°C. UVC light is applied for 10 minutes to the seeds before germination. Result: The results showed that the plants exposed to UVC light had an average growth increase of 3cm compared to those that did not receive the treatment. However, the protein content of both sets of seedlings was similar. The study suggests that further research is necessary to determine the optimal duration and distance for UVC exposure to minimize any potential negative effects on the plants. It also highlights the need to investigate the effect of UVC radiation on the nutritional content of hydroponic crops to ensure that the increased growth does not come at the expense of nutritional quality. The experiment was carried out in Medellin, Colombia, with a maximum solar radiation of 1000 W/m2 and an altitude of 1500 meters. Overall, the study provides evidence that UVC radiation can enhance the growth of hydroponic maize seedlings, but more research is needed to fully understand its effects. At the end, there is an improvement in the growth of forage corn in seeds that have been subjected to UVC light compared to those that have not. It is worth highlighting the need for more research on changes in nutritional components in general.

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