Harnessing the Power of K-Immune 10%, A Novel Bio-stimulant for Enhancing Crop Resilience and Yield: A Multi-crop Study
Suresh Acharya *
Agrocel R&D Farm, Agrocel Industries Pvt. Ltd., Koday, Mandvi, Kachchh, India.
Kishan N. Patel
Agrocel R&D Farm, Agrocel Industries Pvt. Ltd., Koday, Mandvi, Kachchh, India.
Rahul G. Dharaviya
Agrocel R&D Farm, Agrocel Industries Pvt. Ltd., Koday, Mandvi, Kachchh, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
This study investigates the efficacy of K-Immune 10%, a novel combination of chitosan oligosaccharides and kelp, in addressing agricultural challenges exacerbated by unsustainable farming practices including excessive chemical inputs. Experiments were conducted on greengram, mustard and okra to assess its impact on seed germination, plant growth, stress tolerance and crop yield. In greengram, seed treatment of K-Immune at 8 ml/L concentration significantly enhanced seedling vigour and speed of germination without affecting germination percentage. For mustard, K-Immune applied at 30 ml/15L water twice increased seed yield by 42.09% over the RFD, while also providing effective disease control. In okra, K-Immune at 40 ml/15L water applied twice boosted fruit yield by 22.91% and substantially reduced pest and disease damage. The study demonstrates the potential of K-Immune as a bio-stimulant and plant protectant, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional agrochemicals. By enhancing crop resilience and productivity while minimizing environmental impact, K-Immune can be strategically applied between regular pesticide sprays to serve as a crucial tool in combating the development of pesticide resistance.
Keywords: K-Immune 10%, chitosan oligosaccharides, kelp, sustainable agriculture, germination, crop yield, plant protection