Natural growth enhancer from moringa oleifera for agricultural crop yield improvement
A renewable, natural plant growth enhancer derived from selected Moringa oleifera genotypes, targeting phytohormones (GA4 and IAA) to boost crop grain yield. Prior trials showed an average 19% grain yield increase in wheat. The project aims to optimize genotype selection, plantation management, and extraction methods to produce a commercially viable bio-stimulant.
Overview
This project develops a natural, renewable growth enhancer extracted from selected genotypes of Moringa oleifera leaves. The core concept is that specific Moringa genotypes produce phytohormones, primarily gibberellin A4 (GA4) in combination with indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), that function as effective growth enhancers for agricultural crops. Prior research demonstrated that foliar application of Moringa leaf extract (MLE) increased wheat grain yield by an average of 19% across three trials. The project seeks to optimize the entire production chain, from selecting the best genotype and managing plantations to mitigate biotic and abiotic stresses, through to determining the most effective extraction process. The result will be a new, economically viable natural bio-stimulant offering farmers a sustainable alternative to conventional growth promoters.
Technical specifications
- Genotype selection and plantation management: Identification of Moringa genotypes with optimal phytohormone profiles, combined with best-practice production systems including adjusted plant density, fertiliser rates, and watering regimes to mitigate abiotic stress
- Phytohormone extraction: Comparison of conventional solvent extraction, supercritical CO2 (scCO2), and ultrasound-assisted solid-liquid extraction using solvents of varying polarity, with operating conditions optimized to maximize phytohormone yield
- Hormone analysis: Quantitative analysis of phytohormone content and concentration in MLE to determine the most effective extraction approach
- Field validation: Performance evaluation of the optimized phytohormone extract in two field trials measuring grain yield and yield components in wheat
- Prior validated results: Sequential extraction (ethanol followed by hexane) delivered the best grain yield results in earlier trials, while supercritical CO2 is being explored as an alternative method
Technology readiness level
The technology is currently at an early-to-mid stage of development. Three initial research trials (two pot trials and one irrigated trial) have demonstrated proof of concept with consistent grain yield improvements. However, two subsequent field trials delivered mixed results, attributed to abiotic stresses on the Moringa plantation that reduced phytohormone concentrations. The next phase of work focuses on resolving these limitations by optimizing genotype selection, plantation management, and extraction methodology, followed by controlled field validation. The technology requires further development and validation before commercial readiness.
About Dept of Primary Industries & Regional Development
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is a government agency of Western Australia responsible for the sustainable development, regulation, and advancement of the state's agriculture, food, fisheries, and aquaculture sectors. Formed in 2017 through the amalgamation of the Department of Agriculture and Food, the Department of Fisheries, and the Department of Regional Development, the agency provides research, policy development, compliance, and industry-led innovation services. Its structure includes dedicated pillars for primary industries development and biosecurity, enabling it to manage land and aquatic resources while fostering international competitiveness across value chains. DPIRD operates across more than 60 locations throughout the state to deliver specialized services, including diagnostics, laboratory testing, and biosecurity management, to protect and grow regional economies.
For residents, investors, and primary industry partners, the department acts as a central hub for economic development and environmental stewardship. By administering key legislation such as the Soil and Land Conservation Act and managing programs like Royalties for Regions, DPIRD supports the prosperity of regional communities and strengthens Western Australia's export-oriented economy. The department collaborates with regional development commissions to build liveable communities and provides essential advisory services regarding biosecurity, pest management, and trade certification. Through its strategic commitment to research and policy, DPIRD ensures that primary industries can adapt to evolving global challenges while maintaining the productivity and profitability of Western Australia’s vital resources.
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