Meadowfoam (Limnanthes alba) seed meal (MFM) as a growth enhancer in potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) production

Yilma S., A.R. Mosley, and M.I. Vales

Abstract

Meadowfoam (Limnanthes alba) seed meal (MFM) remaining after oil extraction contains fibers, proteins and chemicals such as glucosinolates that may degrade to byproducts that inhibit weeds, insects, and soil borne pathogens growth. A series of studies conducted at Oregon State University have been performed to explore the growth enhancer potential of MFM when applied as soil amendment or foliar spray on potatoes. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of different concentrations of MFM and water extract in potato field and greenhouse production systems. In field experiments, MFM was incorporated in 7.5 meters plot rows at four rates: 0%, 2%, 5% and 10% (V/V) in 15 centimeters furrow slices. In greenhouse studies potting media was amended with 0%, 2%, 4% and 8% (W/W) MFM and thoroughly mixed. In additional greenhouse experiments, water extract of MFM was used to spray plants every week for two months at 0% (only water), 5%, 10% and 20% (V/V). For greenhouse studies, potato rooted cuttings were transplanted into 18-cell plastic trays. Randomized complete block designs were used for all experiments. Tubers were harvested and size-graded. The results of the studies indicated that incorporation of 2% (V/V) MFM in the field significantly increased (P= 0.05) marketable yield of Russet Burbank. Incorporation of 2% MFM in potting mix and spraying of 10% water extract of MFM significantly increased total minituber production in the greenhouse. We conclude that MFM can be effectively used as a growth enhancer in potato production systems both in the field and in the greenhouse. Further studies are warranted to identify the active growth enhancer/s chemicals present in MFM and to confirm our results at larger scale production.