Effects of Microthecin on Cucumber Seed Germination and Seedling Growth

Microthecin is a secondary metabolite with glycogen and starch as precursor found in certain fungi and marine red seaweeds.Its effects on cucumber seed germination and seedling growth were studied with the treatments of seed soaking,soil application and leaf spraying at different concentrations.The results showed that Microthecin in proper concentration increased plant fresh and dry weights,chlorophyll contents,root vigor,photosynthesis and contents of sugar and protein.Microthecin showed the best effects in soaking or spraying treatments at a concentration of 100 mg/L and soil treatments at a concentration of 1 000 mg/L.