Alfalfa seed coating formula with diethyl aminoethyl hexanoate, fulvic acid, and microelement fertilizer

The goal of this study was to develop a seed coating formula that can promote alfalfa (Medicago sativa) seed germination and seedling growth. In this experiment, fulvic acid, micronutrients, and diethyl aminoethyl hexanoate (DA-6) were used as active ingredients to determine the germination and seedling growth of alfalfa seed at different concentrations and combinations. The results showed that seeds coated with 0.2% fulvic acid, 0.02% DA-6, and 0.15% micronutrients exhibited increased germination potential, germination index, germination rate, and more alfalfa branches. The results of the chemical to seed ratios showed that using the 1∶20 ratio resulted in the highest (P < 0.05) alfalfa plant height, crown diameter, and dry weight, being 25.2%, 11.4%, and 30.6% greater, respectively. Thus, 1∶20 was confirmed as the appropriate chemical to seed ratio.