Greenhouse and Nursery Producers Have Optimistic Outlook Toward Adoption of Plasma-activated Water in Young Plant Production

Cold atmospheric plasma applied to water results in a multitude of direct and indirect chemical reactions at the interface, generating a solution referred to as plasma-activated water (PAW), which is rich in reactive nitrogen and oxygen species and has been shown to enhance several processes important to seed germination and seedling production. More specifically, a growing body of research supports the role of PAW in augmenting the seed germination rate and uniformity. Additionally, PAW has been shown to enhance growth and vigor of crop seedlings. In 2023, a survey was launched to ascertain information about the current knowledge of and interest in this technology and, upon discovery, gauge plant producers’ willingness to learn about and adopt PAW in their own operations. Responses from young plant producers were collected between Aug 2023 and Mar 2024 using an anonymous survey. Of the 82 respondents, only 18% were aware of PAW. Despite its obscurity, 78% indicated that they were interested in learning more about PAW and 55% were in favor of trying PAW in their cultural practices. Farmers growing in larger production areas, using indoor vertical farms, or producing herb crops were among the most inclined to learn about and try PAW to enhance their production. Additionally, the frequency with which farmers have experienced poor seed germination positively correlated with overall willingness to try PAW.