Herbicide safeners using plant hormones and antioxidants for improved crop tolerance
This innovative solution uses combinations of melatonin, brassinosteroids, and ascorbic acid as herbicide safeners to reduce crop injury. Effective in enhancing tolerance in vegetable crops, the technology is validated through preliminary greenhouse trials and ready for field testing.
Overview
The use of plant hormones and antioxidants as herbicide safeners offers a promising solution to minimize crop injury from herbicides that induce reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. This solution leverages the protective properties of melatonin, brassinosteroids, and ascorbic acid to enhance tolerance in vegetable crops like brassica greens and sweetpotatoes. Initial trials have demonstrated significant reduction in herbicide-induced injury, suggesting that these safeners can improve yield and crop health.
Technical specifications
- Components: Melatonin, brassinosteroids (24-epibrassinolide), and ascorbic acid (AsA)
- Application methods: Tank mix and seed/transplant treatment scenarios
- Tested crops: Brassica greens (collards, mustard, turnip) and sweetpotatoes
- Herbicides tested: Group 15 (e.g., S-metolachlor) and group 5 (e.g., Spartan)
- Trial results: Significant reduction in injury from S-metolachlor in collards treated with melatonin or AsA seed treatments
Technology readiness level
This technology is currently at TRL 5, having been validated in preliminary greenhouse experiments. Future plans include comprehensive field trials to further assess the efficacy of these combinations across different cultivars and conditions. These trials will help to refine the technology and bring it closer to commercial application.
About Clemson University
Clemson University is a comprehensive public land‑grant research university in Upstate South Carolina with a main campus and statewide outreach. Industry engages through co‑located facilities: an automotive innovation campus in Greenville, an energy testing complex in Charleston, and a research and technology park near the main campus with labs and offices. A strong co‑op program and corporate engagement team connect companies with faculty expertise and student talent, while the Extension network supports field trials and regional pilots. Research is backed by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NSF, NIH, DOE, USDA, and DOD. A dedicated technology transfer office provides IP, licensing, and startup support with clear pathways for industry‑sponsored agreements.
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