Enhancing Jowar and Mung Bean Growth with Spent Mushroom Substrate: A Sustainable Approach

Abstract

This study investigated the potential of spent mushroom substrate (SMS) as a growth promoter for Jowar (Sorghum bicolor) and Mung bean (Vigna radiata) plants. The experiment compared the height growth of these plants in growing media amended with varying levels of SMS to a control group grown in unamended soil.

The results demonstrated a significant positive effect of SMS on plant height for both Jowar and Mung bean. Plants grown with 20 grams of SMS exhibited the greatest increase in height, followed by those with 25 grams and 15 grams, respectively. These findings suggest that SMS can be a valuable tool for enhancing plant growth.

Furthermore, the observed growth promotion suggests that SMS has the potential to serve as an eco-friendly alternative to chemical fertilizers. The presence of residual nutrients and beneficial microbial communities within SMS may contribute to improved plant health and performance. Further research is needed to explore the optimal application rates and potential mechanisms behind the growth-promoting effects of SMS on various crops.