Exploring the Potential of Bio-Stimulant from Organic Waste: Improving Plant Growth and Disease Resistance

This study aimed to develop a natural biostimulant (F2) from fruit peels and floral wastes andevaluate its effect on plant growth. Methanolic extracts of pineapple, pomegranate peels, and red rose,paneer rose, and chrysanthemum petals were used to formulate F2. Phytochemical screening confirmed thepresence of bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, terpenoids, phenols,glycosides, and quinones. HPLC analysis identified quercetin and related flavonoids, particularly in F2 andfloral waste extracts. Application of the F2 biostimulant on Solanum melongena under greenhouseconditions significantly improved plant height, leaf number, and leaf coloration compared to untreatedcontrols. Treated plants also showed reduced disease severity. These growth enhancements are attributed tothe antioxidant, antimicrobial, and metabolic-stimulating properties of the phytoconstituents. Overall, theresults demonstrate that the F2 biostimulant offers a sustainable and eco-friendly approach to improvingcrop productivity and plant health using agro-waste resources.