Synthesis of Cellulose-based, Azolla Extract Infused Hydrogel Fertilizer and its Effect on the Early Growth of Maize (Zea mays L.)
Authors
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Lingaraju H. Gurusiddappa
- Nithin Raj N. M.
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Hubertwell Thabah
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Kishore Bellari
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Bharat Gowda
Abstract
The growing demand for sustainable agriculture inputs has increased interest in biodegradable materials. In this study, a novel approach combining cellulose-based hydrogel with azolla extract infusion was used to assess its effect on the early- stage growth of maize (Zea mays L.). Cellulose was isolated through alkaline, acid, and bleaching treatments and confirmed via Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscope (FTIR) analysis. Hydrogels were synthesized by free-radical polymerization and loaded with Azolla extract. Pot experiments with loamy soil were conducted to assess the effect of applications. H4 and H5 treatments increased shoot height by ~65–75% and total chlorophyll by ~180% compared to the control (p ≤ 0.05). This approach highlights the potential of waste-derived cellulose hydrogels as eco-friendly, slow-release biofertilizers to improve plant growth, reduce chemical fertilizer use, and support sustainable agriculture in nutrient-deficient and water-limited environments.
Author Biographies
Associate Professor
Department of Environmental Sciences,
JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research,
Mysuru-570015, India.
Postgraduate Student
Department of Environmental Sciences,
JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research,
Mysuru - 570015, India
Postgraduate student
Department of Environmental Sciences
JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research
Mysuru - 570015, India