Magnetic Field as Biophysical Elicitor for Improving Biochemical and Agronomic Responses in Grass Pea

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of pre-sowing magnetic field (MF) application on antioxidant activity and metabolite content in grass pea seedlings, and to evaluate its impact on the plant’s growth and agronomic performance. Grass pea seeds were primed with different magnetic field intensities (0, 0.5, 0.7, 0.9, and 1.1 Tesla) and grown under controlled conditions. Seedlings were harvested on the 28th day. Various physiological and biochemical parameters were evaluated, including chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll, carotenoids, MDA, proline, total phenolics, flavonoids, tannins, DPPH radical scavenging activity, ADF, NDF, crude protein, and macronutrients (Ca, K, Mg, P). The results revealed that magnetic field applications had dose-dependent effects on all examined parameters. The highest magnetic intensity (1.1 T) significantly enhanced chlorophyll content, protein levels, mineral accumulation, and enzymatic antioxidant activities (SOD, CAT, APX), thereby promoting plant development. Low-intensity applications (particularly 0 and 0.5 T) were characterized by increased MDA and proline levels, indicating a higher degree of oxidative stress. Moderate-intensity treatments (especially 0.7 T) were associated with increased proline and phenolic compound accumulation, suggesting the activation of stress adaptation mechanisms. Overall, the findings suggest that magnetic field applications,particularly at optimal doses such as 1.1 T, can serve as an eco-friendly and sustainable agrotechnological tool to improve plant productivity and forage quality.