The supplemental LED light spectra and silicon foliar application alleviate the adverse effects of combined salinity-alkalinity stress on Physalis angulata

This study examined the interactive effects of supplemental LED (Light-emitting diode) lighting and foliar silicon application on the growth, physiology, and nutrient status of Physalis angulata under different levels of salinity-alkalinity stress in a hydroponic system. Plants were exposed to three stress levels (control, moderate, severe), two silicon concentrations, and four light regimes (natural, blue: red, red, blue). Salinity-alkalinity stress significantly reduced plant height, stem diameter, leaf area, shoot and root biomass, and physiological characteristics, but these negative effects were alleviated by silicon and LED treatments. Both red and blue LED lights benefited plant growth and physiology, with red light being generally more effective than blue for increasing vegetative growth and nutrient uptake, especially under stress. Blue light alone had a moderate effect, enhancing certain growth aspects. The combination of blue and red light (blue:red) consistently outperformed either color alone across most traits. The combined use of blue: red light and silicon further increased plant height, stem diameter, leaf area, and shoot biomass compared to the control. Overall, integrating silicon nutrition with targeted LED lighting improved plant growth and nutrient acquisition, enhancing the tolerance of Physalis angulata to salinity-alkalinity stress and offering a promising strategy for crop resilience in challenging environments.