Application of orange peel extract in promoting plant growth

Abstract

The present invention belongs to the field of agricultural technology, and specifically relates to the application of orange peel extract in plant growth. In the agricultural field, orange peel extract has relatively few uses. The present invention provides a new application of orange peel extract, specifically using it as a plant growth promoter to promote plant growth and improve plant stress resistance.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The priority information of this invention is as follows: Priority number 2023114885739, priority date November 9, 2023, invention name: Use of hesperidin in promoting plant growth, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. The present invention belongs to the field of agricultural technology and specifically relates to the use of orange peel extract in promoting plant growth. Background Art

[0002] Orange peel, known as "chenpi" in Traditional Chinese Medicine, is a traditional Chinese medicine with a long history. The Compendium of Materia Medica mentions its use in treating various ailments. Modern medical research has also revealed that orange peel contains a variety of active substances, primarily flavonoids such as hesperidin and nobiletin. These compounds have antioxidant properties, scavenging free radicals, reducing cellular oxidative damage, and delaying aging. They also have anti-inflammatory properties, alleviating inflammatory responses. Volatile oil components such as D-limonene have expectorant and antitussive properties, promoting the drainage of respiratory secretions. They also have antibacterial properties, inhibiting the growth of various bacteria, including Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, and are used in food preservation. Phenolic acid compounds such as ferulic acid possess antioxidant properties, reducing oxidative stress in the body, and exhibit anti-inflammatory activity, helping to alleviate inflammatory responses. Carotenoids, such as beta-carotene, are antioxidants beneficial to human health. Sugar substances can activate the plant immune system, enhance the plant's resistance to pathogens, promote the growth and development of plant roots, and eliminate excessive free radicals in the plant body, reducing the damage of free radicals to plant cells and thus extending the plant's growth cycle.

[0003] Hesperidin (glycoside), a flavonoid found in orange peel extract, has a dihydroflavonoid structure and is weakly acidic. Pure hesperidin appears as white, needle-shaped crystals. Hesperidin possesses numerous biological properties. Modern research has shown that hesperidin can be an antioxidant, anti-cancer, anti-fungal, anti-allergic, and blood pressure-lowering agent. It also inhibits oral and esophageal cancers, maintains osmotic pressure, enhances capillary toughness, and lowers cholesterol. Hesperidin exhibits broad-spectrum antibacterial activity against common food contaminants, including Bacillus subtilis, Salmonella typhimurium, Shigella flexneri, Streptococcus hemolyticus, and Vibrio cholerae. Therefore, it is widely used as a food additive and in food processing. However, the purification process for hesperidin is complex and costly, making it difficult to commercialize.

[0004] In addition, in the agricultural field, there are currently no reports on the use of orange peel extract in regulating plant growth. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Research has found that orange peel extract not only significantly promotes plant growth but also increases plant resistance to stress. This invention, the first to demonstrate the effectiveness of orange peel extract in promoting plant growth and enhancing stress resistance, expands the application scope of orange peel extract and provides a new option for regulating plant growth in agriculture. The present invention utilizes a simple extraction method to obtain orange peel extract, resulting in lower application costs. While the extract contains hesperidin, a component mentioned in other patents, the active concentration is far lower than that of hesperidin alone in other patents.

[0006] The present invention provides an application of an orange peel extract containing hesperidin in promoting plant growth. The orange peel is a dry sample of the peel of citrus fruits, such as tangerines, oranges, and grapefruits.

[0007] In the present invention, promoting plant growth includes promoting plant germination, promoting the growth of one or more of roots, stems, leaves, or flowers and fruits. For example, promoting the growth of root length, stem diameter, plant height, leaf width, leaf length, leaf number, leaf area, biomass, chlorophyll content, yield, etc.

[0008] The present invention also provides an orange peel extract for promoting plant growth. The orange peel extract comprises at least one of an orange peel water extract, a 10%-100% ethanol orange peel extract, and a 100% methanol orange peel extract.

[0009] Furthermore, the orange peel extract is 50%-70% ethanol orange peel extract.

[0010] Furthermore, the orange peel extract is a 60% ethanol orange peel extract, and the components of the orange peel extract include hesperidin, neohesperidin, nobiletin, ferulic acid, D-limonene, and β-carotene.

[0011] In the present invention, the orange peel extract is used as an active ingredient of the growth promoter and can be used alone or in combination with other products.

[0012] The invention provides a plant growth promoter, which takes orange peel extract as an active ingredient.

[0013] The "growth promoter" mentioned in the present invention refers to a plant growth promoter, which is a biologically active substance that can promote cell division, differentiation and elongation growth, or promote the growth of plant vegetative organs and the development of reproductive organs.

[0014] In the present invention, the orange peel extract is a natural plant growth promoter.

[0015] The plants described in the present invention include but are not limited to economic crops and food crops, such as tobacco, corn, lettuce, wheat, pepper, Chinese cabbage, lettuce, bok choy, tomato, citrus, kiwi, cherry, pear, apple, etc.

[0016] The so-called "economic crops" are of various types, including but not limited to fiber crops (such as cotton, hemp, etc.), oil crops (such as sesame, peanuts, etc.), sugar crops (such as sugarcane, sugar beets, etc.), hobby crops (tobacco), medicinal crops, dye crops, ornamental crops, fruits (such as citrus, kiwi, cherry, pear, apple, etc.) and other economic crops (such as lettuce, pepper, Chinese cabbage, lettuce, Shanghai green, etc.).

[0017] The “food crops” mentioned above include but are not limited to cereal crops (wheat, rice, corn), tuber crops (including sweet potatoes, potatoes, etc.) and legume crops (including soybeans, broad beans, peas, mung beans, etc.).

[0018] In the product of the present invention, the orange peel extract can be directly used as a single dose. In order to make it stable and easy to transport and store, it can be made into an agricultural product, for example, by adding auxiliary materials to make a corresponding dosage form. The auxiliary materials can be conventional auxiliary materials in the field, such as dispersants, wetting agents, binders, emulsifiers, stabilizers, solvents, etc.

[0019] On the other hand, the orange peel extract of the present invention can be used as a synergist in combination with foliar fertilizers, water-soluble fertilizers, compound fertilizers, pesticides and other products.

[0020] In the present invention, the dosage form of the agricultural product includes but is not limited to emulsifiable concentrate, suspension concentrate, wettable powder, dust, granule, aqueous solution, mother liquor or mother powder.

[0021] In the present invention, when used, the single agent or agricultural product prepared from the orange peel extract is used to treat seeds, spray on leaves or irrigate roots.

[0022] In the present invention, when the orange peel extract or its product is prepared into a solution for promoting seed germination or plant growth, the concentration of the orange peel extract in the solution can be selected according to actual needs.

[0023] In the present invention, the active concentration range of the orange peel extract in the orange peel extract is 0.1-10 ppm, the active concentration range of each main component in the extract is 0.00005-0.2 ppm, among which the active concentration range of main components such as hesperidin, neohesperidin, and nobiletin is 0.001-0.2 ppm.

[0024] The seeds are treated by mixing a single agent or agricultural product made from orange peel extract with the seeds to coat the seeds with the orange peel extract, or soaking the seeds to be germinated with the orange peel extract solution.

[0025] In the growth promotion experiment of the present invention, the influence of diseases and pests on plant growth has been eliminated. Through such an experimental design, the results are sufficient to show that the effect of orange peel extract on promoting plant growth is not caused by avoiding diseases and pests.

[0026] The present invention also provides an application of an orange peel extract in regulating plant stress resistance.

[0027] Plant stress resistance refers to certain traits that plants possess to resist adverse environments, such as salt and alkali resistance, cold resistance, drought resistance, high temperature resistance, waterlogging resistance, and resistance to dry and hot winds.

[0028] In the present invention, the orange peel extract regulates the stress resistance of plants, including at least one of salt and alkali resistance, cold resistance, drought resistance, high temperature resistance, waterlogging resistance, and dry hot wind resistance.

[0029] Beneficial effects of the present invention: The present invention is the first to discover the effect of orange peel extract in promoting plant growth and improving stress resistance, which expands the application scope of orange peel extract and also provides a new option for regulating plant growth in agriculture. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] The following is a clear and complete description of the technical solution of the present invention. Obviously, the embodiments described are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making any creative efforts are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0031] Example 1 Experiment on promoting wheat root growth with orange peel extract containing hesperidin

[0032] The sample used in this example is an orange peel extract with a hesperidin content of 10%. In the experiment, the orange peel extract is calculated as 100%, and water is used to prepare the concentration of 0.01-200 ppm.

[0033] 1. Experimental Design

[0034] Table 1 Experimental design

[0035]

[0036]

[0037] 2. Experimental methods

[0038] Wheat seeds were disinfected by soaking in 5% sodium hypochlorite solution for 10 minutes, then washed 5-6 times with water and soaked for 4-6 hours. The seeds were then germinated in a 25°C constant-temperature incubator for one day until they turned white, at which time the experimental treatments were performed. Wheat seeds of uniform size, free of pests and diseases, and showing a consistent degree of whiteness were selected for transplantation into planting baskets. Eight wheat seeds were placed in each basket. A nutrient solution of varying concentrations was prepared using Hoagland's nutrient solution as the base according to the experimental design. 200ml of the prepared solution was added to the bottle, just enough to allow the wheat seeds to touch the liquid surface. Each treatment was repeated five times, and the seeds were placed in a 25°C incubator for incubation. The wheat was removed after seven days, and the root length and plant height of the different treatment groups were measured.

[0039] 3. Experimental results

[0040] As shown in Table 2, the experimental results show that orange peel extract has the effect of promoting wheat growth in the concentration range of 0.01 to 200 ppm. By hydroponically treating wheat with different concentrations of the agent, the growth of wheat roots and aboveground parts can be significantly promoted, among which the best effect is achieved at a concentration of 0.2 ppm.

[0041] Table 2 Results of orange peel extract promoting wheat root growth

[0042]

[0043] Example 2

[0044] Weigh a certain amount of orange peel and grind it into powder. Add 20 times the volume of deionized water, ultrasonicate at room temperature for 60 minutes, repeat the extraction twice, filter, combine the extracts, and concentrate under reduced pressure to a 1:1 ratio (i.e., 1g of medicinal material corresponds to 1g of extract) to obtain orange peel extract 1.

[0045] Example 3

[0046] Weigh a certain amount of orange peel and grind it into powder. Add 20 times the volume of ethanol with an ethanol concentration of 10%, ultrasonicate at room temperature for 30 minutes, repeat the extraction twice, combine the extracts, and concentrate under reduced pressure to a 1:1 ratio (i.e., 1 g of medicinal material corresponds to 1 g of extract) to obtain orange peel extract 2.

[0047] Example 4

[0048] A certain amount of orange peel was weighed and ground into powder. 20 times the volume of ethanol was added, and the ethanol concentration was 20%. Ultrasonication was performed at room temperature for 30 minutes. The extraction was repeated twice. The extracts were combined and concentrated under reduced pressure to a ratio of 1:1 (i.e., 1 g of medicinal material corresponds to 1 g of extract) to obtain orange peel extract 3.

[0049] Example 5

[0050] Weigh a certain amount of orange peel and grind it into powder. Add 20 times the volume of ethanol with an ethanol concentration of 30%, ultrasonicate at room temperature for 30 minutes, repeat the extraction twice, combine the extracts, and concentrate under reduced pressure to a 1:1 ratio (i.e., 1g of medicinal material corresponds to 1g of extract) to obtain orange peel extract 4.

[0051] Example 6

[0052] Weigh a certain amount of orange peel and grind it into powder. Add 20 times the volume of ethanol with an ethanol concentration of 40%, ultrasonicate at room temperature for 30 minutes, repeat the extraction twice, combine the extracts, and concentrate under reduced pressure to a 1:1 ratio (i.e., 1g of medicinal material corresponds to 1g of extract) to obtain orange peel extract 5.

[0053] Example 7

[0054] Weigh a certain amount of orange peel and grind it into powder. Add 20 times the volume of ethanol with an ethanol concentration of 50%, ultrasonicate at room temperature for 30 minutes, repeat the extraction twice, combine the extracts, and concentrate under reduced pressure to a 1:1 ratio (i.e., 1g of medicinal material corresponds to 1g of extract) to obtain orange peel extract 6.

[0055] Example 8

[0056] A certain amount of orange peel was weighed and ground into powder, 20 times the volume of ethanol was added, and the ethanol concentration was 60%. Ultrasonication was performed at room temperature for 30 minutes. The extraction was repeated twice, and the extracts were combined and concentrated under reduced pressure to a 1:1 ratio (i.e., 1g of medicinal material corresponds to 1g of extract) to obtain orange peel extract 7.

[0057] Example 9

[0058] A certain amount of orange peel was weighed and ground into powder, 20 times the volume of ethanol was added, and the ethanol concentration was 70%. Ultrasonication was performed at room temperature for 30 minutes. The extraction was repeated twice, and the extracts were combined and concentrated under reduced pressure to a 1:1 ratio (i.e., 1g of medicinal material corresponds to 1g of extract) to obtain orange peel extract 8.

[0059] Example 10

[0060] A certain amount of orange peel was weighed and ground into powder, 20 times the volume of ethanol was added, and the ethanol concentration was 80%. Ultrasonication was performed at room temperature for 30 minutes. The extraction was repeated twice. The extracts were combined and concentrated under reduced pressure to a ratio of 1:1 (i.e., 1g of medicinal material corresponds to 1g of extract) to obtain orange peel extract 9.

[0061] Example 11

[0062] A certain amount of orange peel was weighed and ground into powder, 20 times the volume of ethanol was added, and the ethanol concentration was 90%. Ultrasonication was performed at room temperature for 30 minutes. The extraction was repeated twice. The extracts were combined and concentrated under reduced pressure to a 1:1 ratio (i.e., 1 g of medicinal material corresponds to 1 g of extract) to obtain orange peel extract 10.

[0063] Example 12

[0064] A certain amount of orange peel was weighed and ground into powder, 20 times the volume of ethanol was added, and the ethanol concentration was 100%. Ultrasonication was performed at room temperature for 30 minutes. The extraction was repeated twice. The extracts were combined and concentrated under reduced pressure to a 1:1 ratio (i.e., 1 g of medicinal material corresponds to 1 g of extract) to obtain orange peel extract 11.

[0065] Example 13

[0066] A certain amount of orange peel was weighed and ground into powder, 20 times the volume of methanol was added, and the methanol concentration was 100%. Ultrasonication was performed at room temperature for 30 minutes. The extraction was repeated twice, and the extracts were combined and concentrated under reduced pressure to a 1:1 ratio (i.e., 1g of medicinal material corresponds to 1g of extract) to obtain orange peel extract 12.

[0067] Test Example 1

[0068] This test example uses a potted culture method to test the effects of the orange peel extracts obtained by different extraction methods in Examples 2-13 on the growth of pakchoy seedlings. In this test example, the orange peel extracts are used by foliar spraying.

[0069] 1. Test method

[0070] (1) Test samples

[0071] Orange peel water extract (prepared in Example 2), ethanol orange peel extract (prepared in Examples 3 to 12), and methanol orange peel extract (prepared in Example 13), each extract concentration is 100%, and after filtration and sterilization, it is diluted and applied according to the experimental design.

[0072] (2) Experimental design

[0073] There were 37 treatments in total, with 6 replicates per group. See Table 3 for details.

[0074] Table 3 Experimental design

[0075]

[0076]

[0077] (3) Test steps

[0078] 1) Preparation of pakchoy test materials

[0079] Weigh equal weights (400g) of vermiculite and coconut coir sterilized at 121°C for 20 minutes, mix in a 2:1 ratio, and pot the mixture for later use. Soak pakchoy seeds in 5% sodium hypochlorite solution for 10 minutes, rinse with water 7-8 times, and then sow. When pakchoy seedlings have two leaves and a heart, select uniform, pest-free seedlings for transplanting.

[0080] 2) Preparation of pharmaceutical preparations

[0081] The orange peel extracts extracted and concentrated with different solvents were prepared into a 1% (i.e. 10,000 ppm) mother liquor, and the mother liquor was diluted 1,000 times, 10,000 times, and 100,000 times respectively to obtain 10 ppm, 1 ppm, and 0.1 ppm agents.

[0082] 3) Experimental treatment

[0083] When pakchoy seedlings reached three leaves and a heart, we selected uniform, pest-free, and plump seedlings. One seedling was placed in each pot, with six replicates per treatment, for a total of 222 pots. According to the experimental design, the leaves of each pakchoy treatment were evenly sprayed with the pesticide solution at a rate that prevented dripping into the soil. The control was sprayed with plain water. Physiological indicators of the pakchoy were assessed seven days after treatment.

[0084] (4) Survey indicators

[0085] The test indicators include: chlorophyll, leaf area, and fresh weight of aboveground parts.

[0086] 2. Results Analysis

[0087] (1) Effects of different extraction methods of orange peel extract on the SPAD value of pakchoy

[0088] As shown in Table 4, compared with the water control, the SPAD values of pakchoi leaves were increased at all tested concentrations of orange peel extract. Among them, the 60% ethanol extract at 1 ppm treatment had the highest SPAD value, reaching 33.04%.

[0089] Table 4 Effects of different orange peel extracts on SPAD values of pakchoy

[0090]

[0091] (2) Effects of different orange peel extracts on the fresh weight of aboveground parts of Chinese cabbage

[0092] As shown in Table 5, the biomass of pakchoy treated with different orange peel extracts increased to varying degrees compared with the water control. Among them, the 60% ethanol extract had the highest aboveground fresh weight at a concentration of 1 ppm, with a growth rate of 37.91%, followed by the 70% ethanol extract at a concentration of 1 ppm, with a growth rate of 34.60%.

[0093] Table 5 Effects of different orange peel extracts on the fresh weight of aboveground parts of Chinese cabbage

[0094]

[0095]

[0096] (3) Effects of different orange peel extracts on the leaf area of Chinese cabbage

[0097] As shown in Table 6, after treatment with different orange peel extracts, the leaf area of ​​Pakchoy leaves increased significantly. Among them, the leaf area growth rate under the treatment of 60% ethanol extract 1ppm was the highest, reaching 20.59%, followed by the leaf area growth rate under the treatment of 50% ethanol extract 1ppm, reaching 17.34%.

[0098] Table 6 Effects of different orange peel extracts on the leaf area of Chinese cabbage

[0099]

[0100]

[0101] In summary, orange peel extracts extracted with different solvents have a promoting effect on the growth of pakchoy. The SPAD value, leaf area and biomass of pakchoy leaves are significantly increased. Among them, after 60% ethanol extraction, the growth-promoting effect of orange peel extract is more prominent, followed by 50% ethanol extract and 70% ethanol extract, which have better growth-promoting effects. All of them perform better under 1ppm treatment.

[0102] Test Example 2

[0103] This test example uses a pot culture method to test the effects of the orange peel extracts obtained by different extraction methods in Examples 2-13 on rice germination under saline-alkali conditions. In this test example, the orange peel extracts are used as a drug for seed soaking.

[0104] 1. Test method

[0105] (1) Test samples

[0106] The orange peel water extract (prepared in Example 2), the ethanol orange peel extract (prepared in Examples 3 to 12), and the methanol orange peel extract (prepared in Example 13) were filtered and sterilized and then diluted and applied according to the experimental design.

[0107] (2) Experimental design

[0108] There were 37 treatments in total, with 3 replicates per group. See Table 7 for details.

[0109] Table 7 Experimental design

[0110]

[0111]

[0112] (3) Experimental treatment

[0113] The rice seeds were surface disinfected with 5% (W / V) sodium hypochlorite solution for 10 minutes, washed with clean water 7-8 times, and the surface moisture was absorbed with filter paper. The seeds were placed in the prepared agent and soaked at room temperature for 24 hours.

[0114] Use saline-alkali soil (pH = 9.12, salt content = 0.11%) for sowing. Mix the saline-alkali soil and place it in a germination box. Fill each box with 800g of soil. Slowly add 400g of water evenly until the saline-alkali soil is almost soaked. Use clean tweezers to sow the soaked seeds, pressing them about 2cm into the soil. 45 seeds per pot, with three replicates per treatment. After sowing, lightly cover the soil and place in a 26°C incubator with 24-hour light incubation. Rice likes water. During the germination process, monitor the soil moisture level and replenish water in time, ensuring that the soil is completely soaked.

[0115] (4) Survey indicators

[0116] After rice begins to germinate, the germination rate of each treatment is investigated every day. The final germination rate of each treatment is investigated on the seventh day. The data are processed using Excel and the variance analysis is used to analyze the data differences.

[0117] 2. Results Analysis

[0118] The experimental results, shown in Table 8, demonstrate that orange peel extracts obtained by different extraction methods, at concentrations ranging from 0.1 to 10 ppm, all promoted rice seed germination under saline-alkali stress. Soaking rice seeds with different concentrations of orange peel extract alleviated saline-alkali stress. The highest germination rate, reaching 82.61%, was achieved with the 1 ppm 60% ethanol extract, followed by 80.59% with the 1 ppm 70% ethanol extract.

[0119] Table 8 Effects of different orange peel extracts on rice germination under saline-alkali conditions

[0120]

[0121] Test Example 3

[0122] This test example uses a potted culture method to test the effects of three orange peel extracts that performed well in Test Examples 1 and 2 on wheat seed germination and seedling growth. In this test example, the orange peel extracts were used in hydroponics.

[0123] 1. Test method

[0124] (1) Test samples

[0125] Ethanol orange peel extract (prepared in Examples 7, 8, and 9) was diluted with water and applied according to the experimental design.

[0126] (2) Experimental design

[0127] There were 10 treatments in total, with 5 replicates per group. See Table 9 for details.

[0128] Table 9 Experimental design

[0129]

[0130]

[0131] (3) Experimental treatment

[0132] Wheat seeds were disinfected by soaking in a 5% sodium hypochlorite solution for 10 minutes, then rinsed 7-8 times with water and soaked for 4-6 hours. The seeds were then germinated in a 25°C constant-temperature incubator for one day until they appeared white, at which time the experimental treatments were performed. Wheat seeds of uniform size, free of pests and diseases, and showing a consistent whitening were selected and transplanted into planting baskets. Eight wheat seeds were placed in each basket. A nutrient solution of varying concentrations was prepared using Hoagland's nutrient solution as the base according to the experimental design. 200ml of the prepared solution was added to the bottle, just enough to make the wheat seeds touch the liquid surface. Each treatment was replicated five times. The seeds were incubated in a 26°C, 12-hour light cycle, 23°C, 12-hour darkness cycle. Indicators were assessed after seven days.

[0133] (4) Survey indicators

[0134] The experimental investigation indicators include: measuring the root length, plant height, root fresh weight and plant fresh weight of different treatment groups.

[0135] 2. Results Analysis

[0136] The experimental results are shown in Tables 10 and 11. From the experimental results, it can be seen that different orange peel extracts have the effect of promoting the growth of the aboveground part and root system of wheat, and have obvious growth-promoting effects at different concentrations. Among them, the 60% ethanol extraction 1ppm treatment performed the best, with the growth rates of root length, plant height, root fresh weight, and plant fresh weight reaching 32.90%, 20.43%, 36.50%, and 22.67%, respectively.

[0137] Table 10 Effects of orange peel extract on wheat root length and plant height

[0138]

[0139] Table 11 Effects of orange peel extract treatment on changes in root weight and plant weight of wheat

[0140]

[0141]

[0142] Test Example 4

[0143] This test example uses a potted culture method to test the effects of three ethanol orange peel extracts that performed well in Test Examples 1 and 2 on corn seed germination and seedling growth under saline-alkali conditions. In this test example, the orange peel extracts are used as a seed soaking agent.

[0144] 1. Test method

[0145] (1) Test samples

[0146] Ethanol orange peel extract (prepared in Examples 7, 8, and 9) was diluted with water and applied according to the experimental design.

[0147] (2) Experimental design

[0148] The experiment included 10 treatments in total, with 3 replicates per group. See Table 12 for details.

[0149] Table 12 Experimental design

[0150]

[0151] (3) Experimental treatment

[0152] 1) Culture medium preparation

[0153] Weigh an equal weight (200 g) of vermiculite sterilized with high-pressure steam at 121°C for 20 minutes and place it in pots for later use, a total of 30 pots. Add 200 ml of saline-alkali aqueous solution (NaCl = 0.3%, Na2SO4 = 2.7%, Na2CO3 = 0.3%, and configure pH = 9.5 with NaOH) to each pot, stir and mix thoroughly for later use.

[0154] 2) Seed Soaking: Corn seeds were surface-disinfected with a 5% sodium hypochlorite solution for 10 minutes, rinsed 7-8 times with clean water, and dried with filter paper. 100 mL of a 1% stock solution of orange peel extract was prepared according to the desired concentration. Equal weights of 100 g of seeds were placed in each solution and soaked in a 26°C incubator for 18 hours. After soaking for 18 hours, the corn seeds were rinsed with clean water and sown in germination boxes, 20 seeds per pot, for a total of 60 seeds per treatment. The water treatment served as a control. The seeds were then incubated in a 26°C / 12-hour light / 23°C / 12-hour dark incubator. Indicators were assessed after 7 days.

[0155] (4) Survey indicators

[0156] The test investigation indicators include: measuring the germination rate, root length, plant height, root fresh weight and plant fresh weight under different treatments.

[0157] 2. Results Analysis

[0158] (1) Effects of soaking seeds with different orange peel extracts on the germination rate of corn under saline-alkali conditions

[0159] As shown in Table 13, the germination rate of corn increased after soaking with 50%-70% ethanol orange peel extract at 0.1, 1, and 10 ppm, among which the germination rate of corn treated with 1 ppm was the highest, and the 60% ethanol extraction effect was the best, with the germination rate growth rate reaching 60.82%.

[0160] Table 13 Effect of orange peel extract soaking on corn germination rate under saline-alkali conditions

[0161]

[0162] (2) Effects of soaking seeds with different orange peel extracts on the growth of corn seedlings under saline-alkali conditions

[0163] As shown in Tables 14 and 15, different orange peel extracts have a certain promoting effect on the growth of corn seedlings, and the growth trends of the aboveground part and root system of corn are consistent.

[0164] Overall, the performance of various orange peel extracts under 1ppm treatment was better, among which the best effect was achieved under 60% ethanol extraction conditions, with the highest growth rates of root length, plant height, root fresh weight, and plant fresh weight reaching 20.90%, 15.45%, 18.81%, and 16.67%, respectively.

[0165] Effects of orange peel extract soaking on maize root growth and plant height under saline-alkali conditions

[0166]

[0167]

[0168] Table 15 Effects of orange peel extract soaking on corn root weight and plant weight under saline-alkali conditions

[0169]

[0170] Test Example 5

[0171] This test example uses a potted culture method to test the effect of 60% ethanol orange peel extract, which performed well in Test Examples 3 and 4, on the growth of cucumber seedlings under low temperature conditions. In this test example, the orange peel extract is used by foliar spraying.

[0172] 1. Test method

[0173] (1) Test samples

[0174] 60% ethanol orange peel extract (prepared in Example 8) was diluted with water and applied according to the experimental design.

[0175] (2) Experimental design

[0176] The experiment included 4 treatments in total, with 8 repetitions per group, and the drug dilutions were performed according to the designed concentrations in Table 16.

[0177] Table 16 Experimental design

[0178]

[0179] (3) Experimental treatment

[0180] Prepare vermiculite and coconut coir sterilized at 121°C for 20 minutes, mix them in a 2:1 ratio, and pot them for later use. Soak cucumber seeds in a 5% sodium hypochlorite solution for 10 minutes, then rinse with water 7-8 times before sowing. Once the cucumber seedlings have two fully expanded true leaves, select uniform, pest-free seedlings for later use.

[0181] Orange peel extract was prepared as a pretreatment according to the experimental design. The pretreatment was sprayed until cucumber leaves were evenly covered with the pretreatment solution, with an application rate sufficient to prevent dripping onto the soil. A water treatment served as a control. Twenty-four hours after spraying, the cucumber seedlings were placed in a 4°C low-temperature environment for 24 hours. Following treatment, the cucumbers were observed for wilting and their water loss rate was measured at room temperature.

[0182] (4) Detection indicators

[0183] The test indicator is the water loss rate of cucumber leaves.

[0184] The first true leaf of the cucumber after low temperature treatment was removed and weighed, and the leaf weight A was recorded. Then, the leaf was placed in clean water for 12 hours to allow the leaf to fully absorb water to saturation, and the leaf weight after water absorption B was recorded.

[0185] Leaf water loss rate % = (BA) / B*100

[0186] 2. Results Analysis

[0187] After treatment at low temperatures (4°C), cucumber leaves in the water-treated group showed severe wilting, while those treated with orange peel extract showed less wilting, with no noticeable curling or softening. The water loss rate of cucumber leaves under low temperatures was used to quantitatively measure their cold resistance; lower water loss rates indicate greater cold resistance.

[0188] As shown in Table 17, the water loss rate of cucumber leaves can be reduced by the orange peel extract treatment. Among them, the water loss rate of cucumber leaves under the 1 ppm orange peel extract treatment is the smallest, reaching 26.34%, which is 36.27% lower than that of the pure water treatment.

[0189] Table 17 Effect of orange peel extract on water loss rate of cucumber leaves sprayed under low temperature conditions

[0190]

[0191] Test Example 6

[0192] Test Examples 1-5 show that orange peel extract, when extracted with 60% ethanol, significantly promotes growth and mitigates adverse effects on pakchoi leaf spray growth, rice germination under saline-alkali stress, wheat hydroponics, corn seed germination under saline-alkali conditions, and cucumber growth under low temperature conditions. Therefore, the components of the 60% ethanol orange peel extract were analyzed to compare the effects of the orange peel extract with the individual natural ingredients on rice seed germination. In this test example, the agent was used for seed soaking.

[0193] 1. Test method

[0194] (1) Test samples

[0195] 60% ethanol orange peel extract (prepared in Example 8) was subjected to component content determination. The results are shown in Table 18.

[0196] Hesperidin, neohesperidin, nobiletin, ferulic acid, D-limonene, and β-carotene (pure compounds obtained from natural sources) were diluted with water and applied according to the experimental design.

[0197] Table 18 60% ethanol orange peel extract index component test results

[0198]

[0199] (2) Experimental design

[0200] 60% ethanol orange peel extract, hesperidin (pure compound), neohesperidin (pure compound), nobiletin (pure compound), ferulic acid (pure compound), D-limonene (pure compound), and β-carotene (pure compound) were diluted according to the concentrations designed in Table 19. A total of 8 treatments were conducted, with 3 replicates per group.

[0201] Table 19 Experimental design

[0202]

[0203]

[0204] (3) Experimental treatment

[0205] The rice seeds were surface disinfected with 1% (W / V) sodium hypochlorite solution for 10 minutes, washed with clean water 5-6 times, and the surface moisture was absorbed with filter paper. The seeds were placed in the prepared agent and soaked in an incubator at 26°C for 18 hours.

[0206] For each treatment, 60 mL of water and 25 g of vermiculite are required. Mix the required amount of water and soil, weigh 70 g of soil, and place it in a 10 cm x 10 cm square Petri dish. Smooth the soil with a plastic sheet before planting. Rinse the soaked seeds with clean water to remove any residual solution. Use clean tweezers to plant the seeds in the Petri dish, pressing them into the bottom of the dish. Place 36 seeds per dish, and replicate each treatment three times. After planting, lightly cover with soil, cover with a lid to retain moisture, and incubate in a 26°C incubator under light.

[0207] (4) Detection indicators

[0208] After the rice begins to germinate, the germination rate of each treatment is investigated every day until the germination rate of the drug treatment reaches more than 80%, and the experiment is terminated. The follow-up investigation is usually carried out for 5 days, and the data are processed using Excel and the variance analysis of the data is performed.

[0209] 2. Results Analysis

[0210] The experimental results are shown in Table 20. The results show that the 60% ethanol orange peel extract and the purified substances hesperidin, neohesperidin, nobiletin, ferulic acid, D-limonene, and β-carotene all promoted rice seed germination within a concentration range of 0.1 to 1 ppm. The 60% ethanol orange peel extract showed the best effect at 1 ppm, with a rice germination rate of 86.56%. At 1 ppm, the concentrations of the major components in the 60% ethanol orange peel extract were: hesperidin 0.023 ppm, neohesperidin 0.013 ppm, nobiletin 0.011 ppm, ferulic acid 0.024 ppm, D-limonene 0.012 ppm, and β-carotene 0.0005 ppm. This indicates that the effective concentrations of the components in the 60% ethanol orange peel extract were significantly lower than those of the purified substances alone, demonstrating a synergistic effect.

[0211] Table 20 Effects of orange peel extract and different natural ingredients on rice germination

[0212]

[0213]

[0214] Test Example 7

[0215] The effects of orange peel extract and each natural ingredient alone on rice seed germination under saline-alkali conditions were compared. In this test, the agent was used for seed soaking.

[0216] 1. Test method

[0217] (1) Test samples

[0218] 60% ethanol orange peel extract (prepared in Example 8), hesperidin, neohesperidin, nobiletin, ferulic acid, D-limonene, and β-carotene (pure compounds obtained from natural sources) were diluted with water and applied according to the experimental design.

[0219] (2) Experimental design

[0220] The experiment included 8 treatments in total, with 3 replicates per group, and the drug dilutions were performed according to the designed concentrations in Table 21.

[0221] Table 21 Experimental design

[0222]

[0223]

[0224] (3) Experimental treatment

[0225] The rice seeds were surface disinfected with 1% (W / V) sodium hypochlorite solution for 10 minutes, washed with clean water 5-6 times, and the surface moisture was absorbed with filter paper. The seeds were placed in the prepared agent and soaked in an incubator at 26°C for 18 hours.

[0226] Prepare an appropriate amount of saline water (NaCl = 0.3%, Na2SO4 = 2.7%, Na2CO3 = 0.3%, pH = 9.5 with NaOH). For each treatment, 25g of vermiculite and 60mL of saline water are required. The saline-alkali soil used in this experiment is strongly alkaline and moderately saline. After mixing thoroughly, weigh 70g of the saline-alkali soil and place it in a 10cm x 10cm square Petri dish. Smooth the soil with a plastic sheet.

[0227] After soaking the rice seeds, rinse with clean water to remove any residual chemicals. Using clean tweezers, place the seeds in saline-alkali soil and press them into the bottom of a Petri dish. Place 36 seeds per pot, and replicate each treatment three times. After sowing, lightly cover with soil, cover with a lid to retain moisture, and incubate in a 26°C incubator under light.

[0228] (4) Detection indicators

[0229] After rice begins to germinate, the germination rate of each treatment is investigated every day. The final germination rate of each treatment is investigated on the seventh day. The data are processed using Excel and the variance analysis is used to analyze the data differences.

[0230] 2. Results Analysis

[0231] The experimental results are shown in Table 22. From the experimental results, it can be seen that 60% ethanol orange peel extract and hesperidin, neohesperidin, nobiletin, ferulic acid, D-limonene, and β-carotene all have the effect of promoting rice seed germination under saline-alkali stress in the concentration range of 0.1 to 10 ppm. Among them, the rice germination rate was the highest when the 60% ethanol extract was treated at 1 ppm, reaching 83.36%.

[0232] Table 22 Effects of orange peel extract and different natural ingredients on rice germination under saline-alkali conditions

[0233]

[0234]

[0235] Test Example 8

[0236] The effects of orange peel extract and each natural ingredient alone on the growth of lettuce roots under high temperature stress were compared. In this test example, the agent was used in solid culture medium.

[0237] 1. Test method

[0238] (1) Test samples

[0239] 60% ethanol orange peel extract (prepared in Example 8), hesperidin, neohesperidin, nobiletin, and ferulic acid (pure compounds obtained from natural sources) were diluted with water and applied according to the experimental design.

[0240] (2) Experimental design

[0241] The experiment included 8 treatments in total, with 3 replicates per group, and the drug dilutions were performed according to the designed concentrations in Table 23.

[0242] Table 23 Experimental design

[0243]

[0244] (3) Experimental treatment

[0245] A 2% agar medium (solvent: water) was prepared with the agents listed in Table 23, including 60% ethanol orange peel extract, at the concentrations used. This was then placed in square Petri dishes. Lettuce seeds were sown in the 2% agar medium. Two days after sowing, lettuce seedlings were transplanted onto the agar medium supplemented with 60% ethanol orange peel extract. The root tips were marked at the time of transplantation. The transplanted Petri dishes were placed at a 45-degree angle relative to the bottom surface in an incubator at 42°C for 1.5 hours to perform a high-temperature treatment. After the high-temperature treatment, the seeds were incubated at 23°C for 2 days.

[0246] (4) Survey indicators

[0247] The elongation of the root tip of the seedlings after transplantation was measured. The number of measurements in each plot was N = 15.

[0248] 2. Results Analysis

[0249] The experimental results are shown in Table 24. Compared with the water control, the 0.1 ppm 60% ethanol orange peel extract and the purified substances hesperidin, neohesperidin, nobiletin, ferulic acid, D-limonene, and β-carotene all alleviated the inhibitory effect of high temperature stress on root tip elongation of lettuce seedlings, with the 60% ethanol orange peel extract treatment having the greatest alleviating effect. At a concentration of 0.1 ppm, the concentrations of the main components in the 60% ethanol orange peel extract were: hesperidin 0.002 ppm, neohesperidin 0.001 ppm, nobiletin 0.001 ppm, ferulic acid 0.002 ppm, D-limonene 0.001 ppm, and β-carotene 0.00005 ppm. This indicates that the concentrations of the individual components in the 60% ethanol orange peel extract were significantly lower than the effective concentrations of the purified substances alone, indicating that the multiple components of the extract acted synergistically in resisting high temperature stress.

[0250] Table 24 Effects of orange peel extract and different natural ingredients on root tip elongation of lettuce seedlings under high temperature stress

[0251]

[0252] Test Example 9

[0253] Experiments 6-8 show that hesperidin, neohesperidin, nobiletin, and ferulic acid all significantly promoted growth and mitigated adverse effects at 0.1 ppm. Therefore, the effects of 60% ethanol orange peel extract at 0.1 ppm were compared with the effects of purified hesperidin, neohesperidin, nobiletin, and ferulic acid alone on the growth of corn seedlings under waterlogging stress. In this experimental example, the agents were applied as foliar sprays.

[0254] 1. Test method

[0255] (1) Test samples

[0256] 60% ethanol orange peel extract (prepared in Example 8), hesperidin, neohesperidin, nobiletin, and ferulic acid (pure compounds obtained from natural sources) were diluted with water and applied according to the experimental design.

[0257] (2) Experimental design

[0258] The experiment included 6 treatments in total, with 3 replicates per group, and the drug dilutions were performed according to the designed concentrations in Table 25.

[0259] Table 25 Experimental design

[0260]

[0261] (3) Experimental treatment

[0262] Uniformly sized corn seeds were disinfected with 5% sodium hypochlorite for 10 minutes, then rinsed with water. After soaking in water for 4-6 hours, they were germinated in a 25°C incubator for one day. Corn seeds with consistent germination potential were transplanted into planting baskets. Ten corn seeds were placed in the baskets. 500ml of tap water was added to a bottle, just enough to barely touch the liquid. Each treatment was repeated three times. The seeds were incubated in a 26°C incubator with 12 hours of light and 23°C in the dark. After three days of incubation in tap water, a 1:1000 dilution of 1 / 2 Hoagland nutrient solution was added. When the corn reached the three-leaf, one-heart stage, the prepared pesticides for each treatment were sprayed according to the experimental design until the leaves were evenly covered with the solution, but not dripping. The control was sprayed with plain water. The water level was then raised to a depth of 5 cm between the base of the corn seedling and the stem. After seven days, parameters were assessed.

[0263] (4) Survey indicators

[0264] The experimental investigation indicators include: measuring the plant height and root length of different treatment groups.

[0265] 2. Results Analysis

[0266] The experimental results, shown in Table 26, indicate that 0.1 ppm of 60% ethanol orange peel extract and purified hesperidin, neohesperidin, nobiletin, and ferulic acid all promoted the growth of corn seedlings under waterlogging stress. The 60% ethanol orange peel extract treatment was the most effective, with increases in root length and plant height reaching 14.64% and 12.56%, respectively.

[0267] Table 26 Effects of orange peel extract and different natural ingredients on corn seedling growth under waterlogging stress

[0268]

[0269] Test Example 10

[0270] Test Examples 1-9 demonstrate that 60% ethanol orange peel extract significantly promotes growth and mitigates adverse environmental damage. Therefore, a 60% ethanol orange peel extract formulation was prepared using surfactants such as thickeners and emulsifiers to verify the effects of a stable formulation on crop growth.

[0271] 1. Trial preparation of 60% ethanol orange peel extract preparation

[0272] The formulation includes: orange peel extract, thickener - xanthan gum, emulsifier - alkyl glycoside, defoaming agent and water, which are compounded and trial-produced in different proportions. The specific formulation design is shown in Table 27:

[0273] Table 27 Trial preparation formula of orange peel extract

[0274]

[0275] 2. Stability test of trial formula

[0276] After trial production of each formulation, the samples were subjected to high temperature (54°C) and low temperature (0°C) storage stability tests, and the formulation stability investigation was conducted after the samples were stored in hot and cold conditions for 2 weeks.

[0277] The results showed that Formulation 1 precipitated under both hot and cold storage conditions; Formulation 2 samples showed obvious stratification and poor water dispersibility without the addition of emulsifiers; Formulation 3 samples had more bubbles during the stirring and dissolution process; Formulation 4 preparation samples were homogeneous stable liquids with good water dispersibility.

[0278] Therefore, formulation 4 was selected as the trial formulation for orange peel extract.

[0279] 3. Formulation trial production process

[0280] Take 60% ethanol orange peel extract, thickener, emulsifier, defoamer and water in the ratio of 1:5:3:0.5:90.5 to prepare a formula trial. The specific process operation is as follows:

[0281] ① Weigh 3% xanthan gum and add it into 90.5% water and shear until the xanthan gum is completely dissolved and dispersed into a

[0282] Make a uniform liquid for later use;

[0283] ② The liquid in ① was stirred at 55°C, and 1% of orange peel extract was accurately weighed and added to a stirred tank, and stirred at 55°C for 10 minutes until the liquid was homogeneous;

[0284] ③ Weigh 5% of alkyl glycoside and add it to the above ② homogeneous liquid, stir for 5 minutes; then add 0.5% of defoaming agent and stir for 3 minutes to complete the trial preparation of the formula sample.

[0285] 4. Orange peel extract preparation testing

[0286] The basic physicochemical properties and technical indicators of orange peel extract preparations are shown in Table 28:

[0287] Table 28 Orange peel extract preparation test results

[0288]

[0289] After forming a stable sample of the orange peel extract preparation, the preparation was applied to indoor and outdoor biological tests to verify its effect in order to clarify its application effect.

[0290] Test Example 11

[0291] This test example tests the effect of the orange peel extract preparation in Test Example 10 on the growth and quality of pakchoy seedlings by pot culture. The orange peel extract preparation in this test example is applied by foliar spraying.

[0292] 1. Test method

[0293] (1) Test samples

[0294] The orange peel extract preparation prepared in Test Example 10 had an orange peel extract addition amount of 1% (i.e., an effective substance concentration of 10,000 ppm) and was diluted with water for application according to the test design.

[0295] (2) Experimental design

[0296] The experiment included 4 treatment groups in total, with 6 replicates per group. See Table 29 for details.

[0297] Table 29 Experimental design

[0298]

[0299] (3) Experimental treatment

[0300] Six seedlings (three true leaves) of uniform growth, disease-free, and pest-free were selected for each treatment group. Orange peel extract was diluted with water at concentrations of 0.1, 1, and 10 ppm, and sprayed onto the leaves, ensuring that the solution was evenly distributed on the leaf surface without dripping. The plants were then cultured in a two-hour incubation period at 26°C (14 hours of light) and 23°C (10 hours of darkness). The treatment was applied twice, with a seven-day interval between applications. Water and fertilizer management remained consistent across all treatment groups throughout the experiment. After 14 days, leaf SPAD values, fresh weight, leaf number, and leaf area were measured across the different treatment groups.

[0301] 2. Results Analysis

[0302] The experimental results are shown in Table 30. From the experimental results, it can be seen that orange peel extract has the effect of promoting the growth of Chinese cabbage in the concentration range of 0.1 to 10 ppm. Spraying the leaves of Chinese cabbage with orange peel extract of different concentrations can promote the accumulation of Chinese cabbage biomass and increase the chlorophyll content of the leaves. Among them, the best effect is achieved at a concentration of 1 ppm.

[0303] Table 30 Orange peel extract preparation promotes the growth of Chinese cabbage results

[0304]

[0305]

[0306] Test Example 12

[0307] This test example tests the effect of the orange peel extract preparation prepared in Test Example 10 on the growth of pepper seedlings by pot culture. In this test example, the orange peel extract preparation is used by foliar spraying.

[0308] 1. Test method

[0309] (1) Test samples

[0310] The orange peel extract preparation (prepared in Test Example 10), wherein the orange peel extract was added in an amount of 1% (i.e., the concentration of the active substance was 10,000 ppm), was diluted with water and applied according to the test design.

[0311] (2) Experimental design

[0312] The experiment included 4 treatment groups in total, with 6 replicates per group. See Table 31 for details.

[0313] Table 31 Experimental design

[0314]

[0315] (3) Experimental treatment

[0316] After the pepper seeds are soaked and disinfected in 5% sodium hypochlorite solution for 10 minutes, they are washed with water 5-6 times and then sown. When the pepper seedlings grow to 4-5 leaves, seedlings of uniform size and free of pests and diseases are selected for planting.

[0317] According to the experimental design, orange peel extract preparations were prepared with water at concentrations of 0.1, 1, and 10 ppm. Uniformly sized, pest-free pepper seedlings were selected, with one plant per pot, and each treatment was replicated six times. After three days of acclimatization, the prepared preparations were sprayed until the pepper leaves were evenly covered with the solution, but not dripping. Controls were sprayed with plain water. The peppers were cultured in a chamber set at two time periods: 26°C for 14 hours of light and 23°C for 10 hours of darkness. Water and fertilizer management was consistent across treatments throughout the experiment, and indicators were assessed seven days after treatment.

[0318] The test indicators include: leaf number, root length, plant height, root weight and plant weight

[0319] 2. Results Analysis

[0320] Table 32 shows that foliar spraying of orange peel extract at concentrations ranging from 0.1 to 10 ppm significantly promoted the growth of pepper seedlings. Both the aboveground biomass and root system of peppers increased significantly compared to the water treatment, with the 1 ppm concentration producing the best growth effect.

[0321] Table 32 Effects of orange peel extract treatment on the growth of pepper seedlings

[0322]

[0323] Test Example 13

[0324] This test example uses a pot culture method to test the effect of the orange peel extract preparation in Test Example 10 on the growth and quality of wheat seedlings under high temperature stress. The orange peel extract preparation in this test example is used by foliar spraying.

[0325] 1. Test method

[0326] (1) Test samples

[0327] The orange peel extract preparation prepared in Test Example 10 had an orange peel extract addition amount of 1% (i.e., an effective substance concentration of 10,000 ppm) and was diluted with water for application according to the test design.

[0328] (2) Experimental design

[0329] The experiment included 4 treatment groups in total, with 3 replicates per group. See Table 33 for details.

[0330] Table 33 Experimental design

[0331]

[0332] (3) Experimental treatment

[0333] Prepare vermiculite and coconut coir sterilized at 121°C with high-pressure steam for 20 minutes, mix them in a 2:1 ratio, and pot them for later use. Soak wheat seeds in a 5% sodium hypochlorite solution for 10 minutes, then rinse with water 7-8 times. Soak in water for 4-6 hours, then germinate in a 25°C constant-temperature incubator for one day. When the wheat seeds turn white, plant them. Select wheat seeds of uniform size, free of pests and diseases, plump, and uniformly white, and plant them in pots. Plant 16 seeds per pot, repeat each treatment five times, and cultivate them in a culture room at 26°C for 12 hours of light and 23°C for 12 hours of darkness. Water them according to the growth rate. On the third day after the wheat seedlings emerge, spray the prepared pesticide for each treatment according to the experimental design until the wheat leaves are evenly covered with the solution, but the solution does not drip down. For the control, spray with clear water. The plants were placed in a culture room for cultivation, and the temperature was set to two periods: 34°C for 14 hours of light and 28°C for 10 hours of darkness. The water and fertilizer management of each treatment group was consistent during the experiment, and the indicators were investigated after 5 days of treatment.

[0334] (4) Survey indicators

[0335] The experimental investigation indicators include: measuring the plant height, root length, plant fresh weight and root fresh weight of different treatment groups.

[0336] 2. Results Analysis

[0337] The experimental results are shown in Table 34. These results demonstrate that orange peel extract, at concentrations ranging from 0.1 to 10 ppm, promoted wheat growth under high-temperature stress. Foliar application of orange peel extract at varying concentrations alleviated heat damage and promoted biomass accumulation, with 1 ppm achieving the highest effect.

[0338] Table 34 Effects of orange peel extract preparations on wheat seedling growth under high temperature stress

[0339]

[0340] Test Example 14

[0341] This test example uses a pot culture method to test the effect of the orange peel extract preparation in Test Example 10 on the growth of corn seedlings under drought stress. In this test example, the orange peel extract preparation is used as a seed soaking agent.

[0342] 1. Test method

[0343] (1) Test samples

[0344] The orange peel extract preparation prepared in Test Example 10 had an orange peel extract addition amount of 1% (i.e., an effective substance concentration of 10,000 ppm) and was diluted with water for application according to the test design.

[0345] (2) Experimental design

[0346] The experiment included 4 treatment groups in total, with 6 repetitions per group. See Table 35 for details.

[0347] Table 35 Experimental design

[0348]

[0349] (3) Experimental treatment

[0350] Corn seeds of uniform size were selected and disinfected with 5% sodium hypochlorite for 10 minutes, then rinsed with water and dried with filter paper. Orange peel extract preparations were prepared at the desired concentrations in 100 mL of solution. Equal weights of 100 g of seeds were placed in each solution, with water treatment serving as the control. The seeds were then soaked in a 26°C incubator for 18 hours. After soaking for 18 hours, the corn seeds were rinsed with clean water. Seeds of uniform size and germination potential were selected and sown in germination boxes, with 15 seeds per pot, and three replicates per treatment. After culturing in tap water for 3 days, 1 / 2 Hoagland nutrient solution (1:1000 dilution) was added and the seedlings were incubated in a chamber at 25°C with a 12 h / 12 h light / dark cycle. The water was changed every 3 days. After the corn reached the three-leaf, one-heart stage, the nutrient solution was replaced with 20% PEG-6000 for stress. After 7 days of stress, agronomic traits of the seedlings were measured.

[0351] (4) Survey indicators

[0352] The experimental investigation indicators include: measuring the SPAD value, plant height, root length, plant fresh weight and root fresh weight of different treatment groups.

[0353] 2. Results Analysis

[0354] The experimental results are shown in Table 36. From the experimental results, it can be seen that the orange peel extract preparation has the effect of promoting corn growth in the concentration range of 0.1 to 10 ppm. After soaking corn seeds with the orange peel extract preparation, it can alleviate the damage of drought stress to corn seedlings, improve the drought stress resistance of corn, promote the accumulation of corn biomass, and increase the chlorophyll content of leaves. The best effect is achieved at a concentration of 1 ppm.

[0355] Table 36 Effects of orange peel extract preparations on corn seedling growth under drought stress

[0356]

[0357]

[0358] Test Example 15

[0359] The test site of this test example is a citrus plantation in Daxing Town, Pujiang County, Chengdu City, Sichuan Province. The effect of the orange peel extract prepared in Test Example 10 combined with potassium dihydrogen phosphate foliar spray on citrus fruit yield and quality was tested.

[0360] 1. Test method

[0361] (1) Test samples

[0362] The orange peel extract preparation (prepared in Test Example 10), wherein the orange peel extract was added in an amount of 1% (i.e., the concentration of the active substance was 10,000 ppm), was diluted with water and applied according to the test design.

[0363] (2) Experimental design

[0364] The experiment included 4 treatments in total, with 3 replicates per group. See Table 37 for details.

[0365] Table 37 Experimental design

[0366]

[0367] (3) Experimental treatment

[0368] Twelve citrus trees with uniform tree vigor were selected and divided into four plots, with three trees per plot as one treatment plot, and the plots were randomly arranged. On the basis of conventional fertilization, the experiment adopted the method of foliar spraying of water-soluble fertilizers. Four treatments were set up, including spraying clean water (CK), potassium dihydrogen phosphate, orange peel extract preparation, and orange peel extract preparation + potassium dihydrogen phosphate, with three replicates. The pesticides were prepared with water to the use concentration according to the experimental design. Water-soluble fertilizers were sprayed once during the budding period, flowering period, and fruit expansion period of the citrus, respectively. The leaves and backs of the leaves were sprayed, and water droplets appeared on the leaves but no dripping was considered. Except for spraying foliar fertilizers, other cultivation and management measures in the experimental plots were consistent.

[0369] (4) Measurement indicators and methods

[0370] After the fruits matured, 8 fruits were randomly collected from the outer part of the middle of the tree at 4 different directions. 24 fruits were treated in each treatment. The average single fruit weight, longitudinal diameter, transverse diameter, Vc content, total sugar, titratable acid content, soluble solid content, number of fruits per plant, and yield were measured.

[0371] 2. Results Analysis

[0372] (1) Effects of different treatments on citrus fruit traits

[0373] Table 38 shows that the orange peel extract preparation combined with potassium dihydrogen phosphate significantly impacted fruit weight, longitudinal diameter, and transverse diameter. Compared with potassium dihydrogen phosphate alone, the addition of the orange peel extract preparation significantly increased citrus fruit weight. The orange peel extract preparation combined with potassium dihydrogen phosphate significantly outperformed the water treatment in terms of fruit weight, longitudinal diameter, transverse diameter, and fruit shape index.

[0374] Table 38 Effects of different treatments on citrus fruit traits

[0375]

[0376] Note: Different lowercase letters in the same column indicate significant differences (P<0.05). Same below.

[0377] (2) Effects of different treatments on citrus yield

[0378] Table 39 shows that the combination of orange peel extract and potassium dihydrogen phosphate significantly increased citrus yield. The treatment with orange peel extract plus potassium dihydrogen phosphate had the highest number of fruits per plant, 226, significantly higher than the other treatments. The orange peel extract alone treatment had significantly higher fruit counts per plant than potassium dihydrogen phosphate alone and water. The orange peel extract plus potassium dihydrogen phosphate treatment had the highest yield, at 15,270.31 kg / hm2. -2 , which was significantly higher than other treatments.

[0379] Table 39 Effects of different treatments on citrus yield

[0380]

[0381] (3) Effects of different treatments on citrus fruit quality

[0382] Table 40 shows that the combination of orange peel extract and potassium dihydrogen phosphate significantly impacted citrus fruit quality. Fruits sprayed with the orange peel extract plus potassium dihydrogen phosphate exhibited the highest vitamin C content, significantly higher than those in the other treatments. Soluble solids were also significantly higher than in the other treatments. Compared with potassium dihydrogen phosphate alone, spraying the orange peel extract significantly reduced titratable acid content and increased total sugar content.

[0383] Table 40 Effects of different treatments on citrus fruit quality

[0384]

[0385] Test Example 16

[0386] The test site of this test example is a wheat planting field in Zhenping County, Nanyang City, Henan Province. The effect of the orange peel extract preparation prepared in Test Example 10 on the growth and quality of wheat under dry hot wind conditions was tested. In this test example, the orange peel extract preparation was used by foliar spraying.

[0387] 1. Test method

[0388] (1) Test samples

[0389] The orange peel extract preparation (prepared in Test Example 10), wherein the orange peel extract was added at a rate of 1% (i.e., the concentration of the active substance was 10,000 ppm), was diluted with water and applied according to the test design.

[0390] (2) Experimental design

[0391] The experiment included 4 treatment groups in total, with 3 replicates per group. See Table 41 for details.

[0392] Table 41 Experimental design

[0393]

[0394] (3) Experimental treatment

[0395] A wheat field with uniform growth was selected. On the basis of conventional fertilization, the experiment adopted the method of foliar spraying of water-soluble fertilizer. Four treatments were set up, including spraying of clean water (CK) and orange peel extract preparations of different concentrations, with three replicates for each treatment. The plot area was 3m×3m=9m 2The plots were arranged in randomized blocks. The fertilizer was prepared with water to the desired concentration according to the experimental design. A water-soluble fertilizer was sprayed once between the wheat's greening stage and jointing stage, and from the booting stage to the early grain filling stage. The spray was applied evenly and carefully to the middle and upper stems and leaves of the wheat, with water droplets forming on the leaves but no dripping. Aside from the foliar fertilizer application, all other cultivation and management practices in the experimental plots remained the same.

[0396] (4) Measurement indicators and methods

[0397] The SPAD value, SOD, POD activity and MDA content of wheat flag leaves were measured 7 days after the second spraying.

[0398] Yield: Each replicate was harvested manually, air-dried, threshed, and weighed. The standard yield was calculated based on a moisture content of 13%.

[0399] 2. Results Analysis

[0400] (1) Effects of different treatments on SPAD values of wheat leaves under dry hot wind conditions

[0401] Table 42 shows that compared to the water treatment, the orange peel extract increased the flag leaf SPAD value within the 0.1-10 ppm concentration range. At 1 ppm, the SPAD value increased by 21.91%. Spraying wheat with the orange peel extract can alleviate damage to the flag leaf caused by dry hot wind stress, increase flag leaf chlorophyll content, and promote wheat growth.

[0402] Table 42 Effects of different treatments on SPAD values of wheat leaves under dry hot wind conditions

[0403]

[0404] (2) Effects of different treatments on wheat leaf physiological indicators under dry hot wind conditions

[0405] As shown in Table 43, compared with the water treatment, the orange peel extract preparation can enhance the SOD and POD activities of leaves and reduce the MDA content in the concentration range of 0.1 to 10 ppm, among which the best effect is achieved at a concentration of 1 ppm.

[0406] Table 43 Effects of different treatments on physiological indicators of wheat leaves under dry hot wind conditions

[0407]

[0408]

[0409] (3) Effects of different treatments on wheat yield under dry hot wind conditions

[0410] As shown in Table 44, compared with the water treatment, the orange peel extract preparation can increase wheat yield in the concentration range of 0.1 to 10 ppm, among which the effect is best at the concentration of 1 ppm, with the yield growth rate reaching 9.29%.

[0411] Table 44 Effects of different treatments on wheat yield under dry hot wind conditions

[0412]

[0413] Although the embodiments and test examples of the present invention have been shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and variations may be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the present invention, and the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. The use of an orange peel extract containing hesperidin in promoting plant growth, characterized in that: The orange peel extract is 60% ethanol orange peel extract; The orange peel extract comprises flavonoids, phenolic acid compounds, volatile oils, sugars, vitamins, carotenoids, and trace elements; The flavonoids include hesperidin, neohesperidin and nobiletin; the phenolic acid compounds include ferulic acid; the volatile oils include D-limonene; and the carotenoids include beta-carotene.

2. The use according to claim 1, characterized in that The active concentration of the orange peel extract in the orange peel extract ranges from 0.01 to 200 ppm.

3. The use according to claim 2, characterized in that The active concentration of the orange peel extract in the orange peel extract is in the range of 0.1-10 ppm.

4. The use according to claim 1, characterized in that The active concentration range of the orange peel extract component is 0.00005-0.2 ppm.

5. The use according to claim 1, characterized in that The active concentration range of the hesperidin, neohesperidin and nobiletin is 0.001-0.2 ppm.

6. The use according to claim 1, characterized in that Orange peel is the dried peel of citrus fruits.

7. The use according to claim 1, characterized in that The promoting of plant growth includes promoting seed germination, and / or promoting the growth of one or more of roots, stems, leaves or flowers and fruits.

8. The use according to claim 1, characterized in that When in use, the orange peel extract is prepared into an agricultural product, which also includes auxiliary materials, and the auxiliary materials are one or more of a dispersant, a wetting agent, a binder, an emulsifier, a stabilizer, and a solvent.

9. The use according to claim 8, characterized in that The dosage form of the product is emulsifiable concentrate, suspension concentrate, wettable powder, dust, granule, aqueous solution, mother liquor or mother powder.

10. The use according to claim 8, characterized in that The agricultural product made from orange peel extract is used in combination with foliar fertilizer, water-soluble fertilizer, compound fertilizer and pesticide.

11. The use according to claim 10, characterized in that When used, a single dose of orange peel extract or the prepared agricultural product is used to treat seeds, spray leaves or irrigate roots.

12. An application of an orange peel extract in regulating plant stress resistance, characterized in that: The orange peel extract is 60% ethanol orange peel extract; The orange peel extract comprises flavonoids, phenolic acid compounds, volatile oils, sugars, vitamins, carotenoids, and trace elements; The flavonoids include hesperidin, neohesperidin, and nobiletin; the phenolic acid compounds include ferulic acid; the volatile oils include D-limonene; and the carotenoids include β-carotene. The stress resistance is at least one of salt-alkali resistance, cold resistance, drought resistance, high temperature resistance, waterlogging resistance, and dry hot wind resistance.

13. The use according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that: The plants include tobacco, corn, lettuce, wheat, pepper, Chinese cabbage, lettuce, bok choy, tomato, citrus, kiwi, cherry, pear, and apple.

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