Plant growth-promoting composition, combination for promoting plant growth, and plant cultivation method

Abstract

In order to provide a plant growth-promoting composition, a combination for promoting plant growth, and a plant cultivation method, the present invention provides a plant growth-promoting composition which contains a plant body-derived component as an active ingredient and has a plant growth-promoting activity, and in which the active ingredient improves the plant growth-promoting action of glutathione.

Description

Composition for promoting plant growth, combination for promoting plant growth, and method for cultivating plants

[0001] The present invention relates to a composition for promoting plant growth, a combination for promoting plant growth, and a method for cultivating plants.

[0002] Glutathione has an effect of promoting plant growth (Patent Document 1) and is used as a plant growth promoter in the cultivation of plants in the agricultural field and the like. A glutathione preparation is used for application to plants.

[0003] However, since the unit price of glutathione is high, there are restrictions on the cultivation systems that can be used. In order to be used in a wide range of fields including the agricultural field in solving global food shortages or vegetation restoration, etc., it is necessary to reduce the manufacturing cost of glutathione preparations or the cost related to glutathione application, or to find a composition that enhances the application effect of glutathione on plants or a new composition having a plant growth promoting effect.

[0004] International Publication WO2008 / 072602

[0005] As described above, there is a need to develop a composition that can be used in a wide range of fields, has an excellent plant growth promoting effect, and can reduce the application amount of conventional glutathione preparations.

[0006] In order to solve the above problems, the composition for promoting plant growth according to one aspect of the present invention contains a component derived from a plant body as an active ingredient, has a plant growth promoting activity, and the active ingredient improves the plant growth promoting action of glutathione.

[0007] Further, the combination for promoting plant growth according to one aspect of the present invention contains the composition for promoting plant growth and glutathione.

[0008] Further, the method for cultivating plants according to one aspect of the present invention includes a step of applying the above composition for promoting plant growth to a plant or its cultivation soil.

[0009] According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to have a plant growth promoting effect and to carry out cultivation with a reduced amount of glutathione application compared to the conventional amount.

[0010] This figure shows the growth status of komatsuna in each test plot and the amount of each component applied per plant in each test plot in an embodiment of the present invention. This figure compares the fresh weight of the above-ground parts and the height of the komatsuna in each test plot in an embodiment of the present invention. This figure shows the amount of each component applied per plant in each test plot and the growth status of cypress with fertilization of various compositions in an embodiment of the present invention. This figure compares the fresh weight of the above-ground parts of komatsuna in each test plot, the growth amount per granular nitrogen applied, and the relative growth rate in an embodiment of the present invention. This figure compares the fresh weight of the above-ground parts of komatsuna in each test plot and the growth amount per granular nitrogen applied in an embodiment of the present invention. This figure compares the fresh weight of the above-ground parts of komatsuna in each test plot and the growth amount per granular nitrogen applied in an embodiment of the present invention. This figure compares the fresh weight of the above-ground parts of komatsuna in each test plot in an embodiment of the present invention, in the control plot, in the conventional granules plot, in the development product 5, and in the development product 2 test plots. This figure shows the growth status of Japanese mustard spinach in the control group, the conventional granule group, the development product 5, and the development product 2 test plots in the embodiment of the present invention. This figure shows the above-ground fresh weight of Japanese mustard spinach in each test plot and the amount of each component per plant fertilized in each test plot in the embodiment of the present invention. This figure shows the above-ground fresh weight of Chinese cabbage in each test plot and the amount of each component per plant fertilized in each test plot in the embodiment of the present invention. This figure shows the above-ground weight of Japanese cypress fertilized in each test plot in the embodiment of the present invention. This figure shows the growth status of rice in each test plot (top left), the above-ground fresh weight of rice in each test plot (top right), and the amount of each component per plant fertilized in each test plot (bottom) in the embodiment of the present invention.

[0011] [1. Plant Growth Regulator Composition] A composition according to one aspect of the present invention contains a plant-derived component as an active ingredient and has plant growth promoting activity, wherein the active ingredient enhances the plant growth promoting effect of glutathione.

[0012] Furthermore, compositions according to certain embodiments of the present invention can be used as a substitute for glutathione or in combination with glutathione.

[0013] (Plant-derived components) The active ingredient of the composition of the present invention is a plant-derived component and has plant growth-promoting activity.

[0014] Here, the type of plant from which the plant is derived is not particularly limited. Furthermore, the plant may be a part of a plant or the whole plant. Moreover, it may be any part of the plant, such as the entire plant, seeds, stems, leaves, flowers, roots, or fruits.

[0015] Preferred plant-derived components include those selected from the group consisting of wheat germ, rice bran, green leaves, sprouts, brown algae, and green algae.

[0016] As shown in the example, wheat germ is preferably used. Wheat germ has excellent plant growth promoting activity, is inexpensive and readily available, and is highly safe and stable.

[0017] In the case of wheat germ, rice bran, etc., commercially available products are acceptable.

[0018] Other plant-derived ingredients include soybean germ, corn germ, wheat seeds, wheat germ, wheat sprouts, soybean seeds, soybean germ, soybean sprouts, and okara (soybean pulp).

[0019] For green leaves and shoots, any green leaves or shoots from any plant species are acceptable, and preferred examples include the green leaves or shoots of spinach, broccoli, asparagus, and grasses.

[0020] Furthermore, the plant-derived component in one embodiment of the present invention may be eukaryotic algae, prokaryotic algae, or extracts thereof.

[0021] Eukaryotic or prokaryotic algae, for example, cyanobacteria, glaucophyta, rhodophyta, green algae, Ulvophyceae, Charophyceae, Cryptophyta, Haptophyta, Heterokontoph yta), Phaeophyceae, Diatoms (Bacillariophyceae), Chrysophyceae, Raphidophyceae, Chlorophyceae Xanthophyceae, Eustigmatophyceae, Pelagophyceae, Dictyochophyceae, Silicoflagellates Examples include Silicoflagellates, Parmophyceae, Pinguiophyceae, Bolidophyceae, Schizocladiophyceae, Chrysomeriphyceae, Phaeothamniophyceae, Dinophyta, Euglenophyta, Chlorarachniophyta, or their derivatives.

[0022] Furthermore, plant-derived components may be those derived from fresh plants that have not undergone drying treatment. One example is plant-derived components that have not undergone heat drying treatment.

[0023] The plant growth promoting composition contains plant-derived components in the form of untreated or unprocessed plants, or in the form of plants after processing such as crushing or powdering. It may also contain plant-derived processed products, such as those obtained by extraction treatment.

[0024] For example, a plant growth promoting composition contains plant-derived components such as wheat germ, rice bran, green leaves, sprouts, brown algae, green algae, etc., either untreated, steam-treated, pressurized, heat-treated, or dried, or processed products thereof, such as crushed or powdered.

[0025] Plant-based processed products also include plant extracts obtained by adding water or any solvent such as an organic solvent to a plant to extract plant components.

[0026] (Solid carrier) A composition according to one aspect of the present invention further comprises at least one solid carrier selected from the group consisting of bentonite, activated carbon, and zeolite.

[0027] When bentonite is used as a solid carrier, it exhibits excellent granulation and sustained release properties when applying granular compositions. Therefore, it can be expected to be effective in the sustained release of active ingredients when the formulation is applied.

[0028] There are two types of bentonite: sodium-type bentonite and calcium-type bentonite.

[0029] Examples of commercially available sodium-type bentonite products include Neo Kunibond (registered trademark) (Kunimine Industries Co., Ltd.), Kunigel (registered trademark) V1 (Kunimine Industries Co., Ltd.), and Kunigel (registered trademark) V2 (Kunimine Industries Co., Ltd.).

[0030] Examples of calcium-type (Ca-type) bentonite include Kunibond® (registered trademark) (Kunimine Industries Co., Ltd.).

[0031] Of these, calcium-type bentonite is preferred. In one example, Kunibond is suitably used. As shown in the example, when Kunibond was used, the plant growth promoting effect was improved compared to when Neo-Kunibond was used. Thus, calcium-type bentonite is effective in further enhancing the plant growth promoting effect of plant-derived components.

[0032] The shape of activated carbon is not particularly limited as long as it contains carbon and has the property of adsorbing many substances; known types can be widely used. Examples of activated carbon include black charcoal, white charcoal, binchotan charcoal, bamboo charcoal, sawdust charcoal, powdered charcoal, and charcoal (rice husk charcoal).

[0033] (Other Solid Carriers) A composition according to one aspect of the present invention may contain carriers other than the solid carriers described above.

[0034] Other examples of solid carriers include natural minerals, calcined natural minerals, or powders thereof, such as talc, pyrophyllite, silicon dioxide, diatomaceous earth, quartz, apatite, gypsum, clay, perlite, and vermiculite.

[0035] (Additives) Other additives include inorganic salts, sugars or polysaccharides, organic substances, etc., and are not limited to the following.

[0036] Examples of inorganic salts include calcium carbonate, sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, magnesium carbonate, ammonium sulfate, calcium sulfate, sodium sulfate, potassium sulfate, magnesium sulfate, barium sulfate, aluminum oxide, ammonium sulfate, calcium phosphate, diammonium hydrogen phosphate, ammonium dihydrogen phosphate, potassium phosphate, phosphorous acid, ammonium nitrate, sulfur, potassium chloride, potassium silicate, borate, slaked lime, iron chloride, transition metal salts, alkali metal salts, and the like.

[0037] Examples of sugars or polysaccharides include glucose, fructose, sucrose, lactose, starch, cellulose, and dextrin. Examples of organic substances include urea, benzoic acid, and calcium nitrate.

[0038] Examples of organic fertilizers include compost, oil cake, and fish meal.

[0039] (Liquid Carrier) As the liquid carrier, water, aliphatic hydrocarbons, aromatic hydrocarbons (alkylbenzenes (toluene, xylene, isopropylbenzene, p - diethylbenzene, cyclohexane, etc.), ketones (cyclohexanone, acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, methyl isobutyl ketone, etc.), alcohols (methanol, ethanol, butanol, propanol, isopropanol, etc.), esters, ethers, amides (dimethylformamide, dimethyl sulfoxide, etc.), amines, petroleum fractions or mineral oils (kerosene, naphtha, kerosene, diesel oil, paraffin, olefin, etc.), plant - derived oils (rapeseed oil, coconut oil, soybean oil, cottonseed oil, rapeseed oil, etc.), animal - derived oils, etc. can be mentioned.

[0040] (Other Components) The composition of one aspect of the present invention may contain other pharmaceutically acceptable components.

[0041] As other components, for example, additives such as excipients, thickeners, binders, stabilizers, preservatives, pH adjusters, colorants, and surfactants can be mentioned. For various components, substances known in the technical field of the present invention can be used, for example.

[0042] In the composition according to one aspect of the present invention, as long as it does not affect the effects of the present invention, it can be mixed with other agents such as insecticides, acaricides, nematicides, herbicides, biological pesticides, plant growth regulators, etc. to form a mixture. Also, the composition of the present invention and other agents can be applied simultaneously or in combination. By these means, efficient application can be carried out.

[0043] (Dosage Form) As the dosage form, for example, granules, tablets, powders, suspensions, wettable powders, emulsions, water - soluble agents, flowables, etc. can be mentioned.

[0044] Among them, as demonstrated by the fact that the growth - promoting effect of plants could be enhanced more in the examples, it is preferable to be granules.

[0045] The shape of the granules is not particularly limited as long as it is granular, and examples include granules, powders, flowables, pellets, briquettes, etc. Here, "granular" can be, for example, a shape formed by the binding of primary particles of the material to each other in the granulation process.

[0046] The average particle size of the granules may be set to an appropriate size according to the application method and the like. For example, it is 0.5 mm to 5 mm, but is not limited thereto. The average particle size can be measured using a suitable method and apparatus among known methods and apparatuses such as particle size measurement by light scattering method and image analysis by microscope.

[0047] (Active ingredient concentration and blending ratio) The concentration of the active ingredient (plant-derived component concentration) in the formulated composition of the present invention is not particularly limited and can take various concentrations depending on the dosage form described above. For example, in the case of granules, it can be, for example, 1 to 90% by weight, preferably 20 to 50% by weight.

[0048] The weight ratio of the plant-derived component to the solid carrier in the composition according to the present invention is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include 1:100 to 10,000:1, or 1:10 to 10:1.

[0049] An example of the composition for promoting plant growth of the present invention is a composition in which the plant-derived component contained in the composition is wheat germ, the solid carrier is calcium-type bentonite, and preferably Kunibond, as described in the examples.

[0050] In one example, when the plant-derived component is wheat germ and the solid carrier is Kunibond, the mass ratio of the plant-derived component: solid carrier (wheat germ: bentonite) used in the composition according to the present invention is not particularly limited, but is preferably 1:10 to 10:1, more preferably 1:5 to 3:1, and even more preferably 1:3 to 1:1.

[0051] The composition for promoting plant growth according to one aspect of the present invention is a composition that does not contain glutathione as a formulation or is a composition separate from glutathione as a formulation. As another aspect, a composition further containing glutathione is also included in the composition for promoting plant growth of the present invention. When glutathione is contained in the same composition, the mass ratio of the plant-derived active ingredient to glutathione can be applied to the ratio described in the following [3. Plant cultivation method].

[0052] In this specification, the term "glutathione" encompasses both glutathione as a substance and glutathione in the form of a glutathione preparation.

[0053] (Glutathione or its derivatives) Glutathione, which has detoxification and antioxidant effects in living organisms, is a tripeptide consisting of γ-Glu-Cys-Gly and is a form used in plants for storing or transporting sulfur. Glutathione or its derivatives applied to plants may be oxidized glutathione (hereinafter also referred to as "GSSG"), reduced glutathione (hereinafter also referred to as "GSH"), or its derivatives. In this specification, "oxidized glutathione" refers, for example, to a molecule in which two molecules of reduced glutathione are linked by a disulfide bond. Examples of glutathione derivatives include homoglutathione, carboxypropyl glutathione, and dicarboxyethyl glutathione. Esters of glutathione or the above derivatives are also included in the category of glutathione derivatives. Furthermore, when referring to glutathione or its derivatives in this specification, the salt forms and the anhydrous or hydrate forms thereof are also included. Examples of glutathione or its derivative salts include, but are not limited to, ammonium salts, calcium salts, magnesium salts, sodium salts, lithium salts, potassium salts, etc. Examples of anhydrous or hydrated forms include, but are not limited to, 0 to 8 hydrates. In other words, the glutathione or its derivative used in the present invention may be a substance selected from the group consisting of oxidized glutathione, reduced glutathione, homoglutathione, carboxypropyl glutathione, dicarboxyethyl glutathione, and their esters.

[0054] The glutathione or its derivatives used in this invention are not particularly limited in terms of their manufacturing conditions and may be artificially synthesized or derived from natural products. Furthermore, their degree of purity may be high or low, and commercially available products may be used.

[0055] Glutathione or its derivatives may be in the reduced or oxidized form, but the oxidized form is preferred.

[0056] In the present invention, when a glutathione preparation is used as glutathione, examples include commercially available glutathione preparations such as Peption® (Kunimine Industries Co., Ltd.) and Kaneka Peptide W2 (Kaneka Corporation), and commercially available yeast extracts such as Yeast Extract SG010 or SG020 (Santoku Co., Ltd.).

[0057] GSH is easily oxidized. Therefore, glutathione may be included in a mixture of GSH and GSSG.

[0058] The glutathione or its derivative used in this invention may contain GSH, and the GSH may be oxidized to GSSG during storage or use. Alternatively, the GSH may be oxidized to GSSG after application to a plant.

[0059] Furthermore, the method for oxidizing GSH to GSSG is not particularly limited. For example, GSH can be easily converted to GSSG by air oxidation. Alternatively, GSH can be converted to GSSG by any conventionally known artificial method.

[0060] The method for producing the composition of the present invention is not particularly limited and can be produced using known methods. For example, in the case of granules, they can be produced by processes such as granulation and drying.

[0061] In one example, a material containing plant-derived components and a solid carrier is mixed and dried. The dried material is then subdivided into granules. In this case, it is preferable to use the plant-derived components before the drying process in order to avoid impairing their activity.

[0062] The compositions of the present invention can be easily manufactured using readily available and inexpensive materials.

[0063] (Plants to be treated) In this specification, “plant” means the whole plant, plant organs (e.g., leaves, petals, stems, roots, seeds, etc.), plant tissues (e.g., epidermis, phloem, parenchyma, xylem, vascular bundles, palisade, spongy tissue, etc.), or plant cultured cells, or plant cells in various forms (e.g., suspension culture cells), protoplasts, leaf sections, callus, etc.

[0064] The plants to which this invention can be applied are not particularly limited, and it can be applied to a wide range of plants, including monocots, dicots, trees, and other plants. Algae are also included in the scope of application of this invention. Examples of algae include eukaryotic algae and prokaryotic algae, as exemplified in the section on plant-derived components.

[0065] Dicotyledonous plants include, for example, plants of the genera Ipomoea, Convolvulus, Sweet Potato, Dodendron, Caryophyll, Stellaria, Trifolium, Cerastium, Trifolium, Stellaria, Stellaria, Stellaria, Lychnis, Lychnis, Caryophyllaceae, Caulerpa, Saururaceae, Piperaceae, Chloranthaceae, Salicaceae, Myricaceae, Juglandaceae, Betulaceae, and Beech. Plants of the following families: Ulmaceae, Moraceae, Urticaceae, Podocarpusaceae, Proteaceae, Sarmentaceae, Mistletoeaceae, Aristolochiaceae, Myrtleaceae, Polygonaceae, Chenopodiaceae, Amaranthaceae, Nyctaginaceae, Podocarpusaceae, Phytolaccaceae, Aizoaceae, Portulacaceae, Magnoliaceae, Trochodendronaceae, Ceratophyllum, Nymphaeaceae, Ceratophyllum, Ranunculaceae, Akebia, Berberidaceae, Menispermaceae, Chimonanthus, Lauraceae, Ke Plants of the following families: Papilio xuthus, Capranaceae, Brassicaceae, Droseraceae, Nepenthes, Crassulaceae, Saxifragaceae, Pittosporaceae, Hamamelidaceae, Platanaceae, Rosaceae, Fabaceae, Oxalidaceae, Geraniaceae, Linaceae, Zygophyllaceae, Rutaceae, Simaroubaceae, Meliaceae, Polygalaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Sphagnum, Buxaceae, Cinnamomum, Corioliaceae, Anacardiaceae, Ilex, Celastraceae, Staphyleaceae, Cinnamomum, Kae Plants of the Aesculus family, Aesculus genus, Sapindaceae family, Sphagnum family, Balsaminaceae family, Rhamnaceae family, Vitaceae family, Elaeocarpaceae family, Tiliaceae family, Malvaceae family, Malvaceae family, Actinidiaceae family, Camellia family, Hypericaceae family, Stellaria family, Tamarix family, Violaceae family, Ilex family, Stachyurus family, Passifloraceae family, Begoniaceae family, Cactaceae family, Thymelaeaceae family, Elaeagnaceae family, Lythraceae family, Punicaceae family, Rhizophoraceae family, Melonaceae family, Melastomataceae family, Trapaceae family, Onagraceae family,Plants of the families Haworthia, Aquifoliaceae, Araliaceae, Apiaceae, Cornaceae, Diapensiaceae, Clethraceae, Pyrolaceae, Ericaceae, Myrsinaceae, Primulaceae, Plumbaginaceae, Ebenaceae, Symplocaceae, Styraxaceae, Oleaceae, Buddlejaceae, Gentianaceae, Apocynaceae, Asclepiadaceae, Polemoniaceae, Boraginaceae, Verbenaceae It can be applied to plants of the Lamiaceae, Solanaceae, Scrophulariaceae, Bignoniaceae, Sesameaceae, Orobanchaceae, Gesneriaceae, Lentibulariaceae, Acanthaceae, Hypogynaceae, Phrymaceae, Plantaginaceae, Rubiaceae, Caprifoliaceae, Adoxaceae, Valerianaceae, Dipsacaceae, Cucurbitaceae, Campanulaceae, Asteraceae, Dipterocarpaceae, etc.

[0066] As monocotyledonous plants, it can be applied to plants of the genera Duckweed, Lemnaceae, Cattleya, Cymbidium, Dendrobium, Phalaenopsis, Vanda, Paphiopedilum, Orchidaceae, Typhaceae, Spikelaceae, Potamogetonaceae, Thuidaceae, Hylocereusaceae, Alismataceae, Hydrocharitaceae, Hylocereusaceae, Poaceae, Cyperaceae, Palmaceae, Araceae, Eriocaulaceae, Commelinaceae, Pontederiaceae, Juncaceae, Stellariaceae, Liliaceae, Amaryllidaceae, Dioscoreaceae, Iridaceae, Musaceae, Zingiberaceae, Cannaceae, and Monotropaceae.

[0067] Woody plants include, for example, those used for horticulture, agriculture, and forestry.

[0068] Examples of woody plants include pine trees, cypress trees, cedar trees, pine trees, fir trees, cherry trees, acacia trees, eucalyptus trees, mango trees, bayberry trees, sawtooth oak trees, grape trees, apple trees, pear trees, rose trees, camellia trees, jacaranda trees, sandalwood trees, dipterocarpaceae trees, palm trees, legume trees, and so on.

[0069] Furthermore, the plants targeted by the present invention may not only be wild-type plants as exemplified above, but also mutants, transgenic plants, genetically modified plants, or genome-edited plants.

[0070] (Use of plant growth promoting composition as a substitute for glutathione or in combination with glutathione) A plant growth promoting composition according to one aspect of the present invention may be used as a substitute for glutathione or in combination with glutathione.

[0071] Here, "substitution" includes, for example, using a plant growth-promoting composition instead of glutathione for part or all of the amount of glutathione that was conventionally required for a certain cultivation period.

[0072] Here, "combined use" includes using glutathione before, simultaneously with, or after the use of the plant growth-promoting composition. It also includes using the plant growth-promoting composition as a compound with glutathione.

[0073] By using it as a substitute for glutathione, or in combination with glutathione, it is possible to obtain sufficient plant growth-promoting effects while simultaneously reducing the amount of glutathione applied compared to conventional methods.

[0074] For example, when a plant growth promoting composition is applied, the daily application rate of glutathione can be reduced compared to the application rate required when glutathione is applied alone. For instance, the application rate of glutathione per plant when used in combination with a plant growth promoting composition can be preferably 90% or less, more preferably 80% or less, more preferably 70% or less, more preferably 60% or less, more preferably 50% or less, more preferably 40% or less, more preferably 30% or less, more preferably 20% or less, even more preferably 10% or less, and most preferably 0%, compared to the application rate per plant required when glutathione is applied alone. In other words, when using a plant growth promoting composition according to one aspect of the present invention, the amount of glutathione applied per plant can be reduced by preferably 10% or more, more preferably 20% or more, more preferably 30% or more, more preferably 40% or more, more preferably 50% or more, more preferably 60% or more, more preferably 70% or more, more preferably 80% or more, even more preferably 90% or more, and most preferably 100%, compared to the amount of glutathione applied per plant that is required for plant cultivation when used alone.

[0075] In another embodiment, the total amount of glutathione applied in combination with the plant growth promoting composition during the plant cultivation period can be preferably 90% or less, more preferably 80% or less, more preferably 70% or less, more preferably 60% or less, more preferably 50% or less, more preferably 40% or less, more preferably 30% or less, more preferably 20% or less, even more preferably 10% or less, and most preferably 0%, compared to the total amount of glutathione applied during the plant cultivation period when glutathione is applied alone. In other words, when using the plant growth promoting composition according to one embodiment of the present invention, the total amount of glutathione applied in combination during the plant cultivation period can be preferably 10% or more, more preferably 20% or more, more preferably 30% or more, more preferably 40% or more, more preferably 50% or more, more preferably 60% or more, more preferably 70% or more, more preferably 80% or more, even more preferably 90% or more, and most preferably 100%, compared to the total amount of glutathione applied during the plant cultivation period when glutathione is applied alone, which is necessary for plant cultivation.

[0076] Furthermore, depending on the growth status of the plants, the application rate of the plant growth promoting composition and glutathione according to one embodiment of the present invention may be changed during a portion of the application period.

[0077] Furthermore, for example, it may be used in combination with other agents, as long as it does not impair the effect of the plant growth promoting composition.

[0078] As described above, a composition according to one aspect of the present invention can promote plant growth, accelerate the harvest time of agricultural plants, and increase the yield.

[0079] Furthermore, the composition according to one aspect of the present invention can also exhibit a synergistic effect in promoting plant growth when applied in combination with glutathione. When applied in combination with glutathione, it exhibits a significantly higher growth-promoting effect compared to when glutathione alone is applied or when the plant growth-promoting composition alone is applied.

[0080] Furthermore, by using the plant growth-promoting composition according to one embodiment of the present invention as a substitute for glutathione, or by using it in combination with glutathione, the plant growth-promoting effect can be significantly improved while drastically reducing the amount of glutathione that can be applied. Therefore, by using the plant growth-promoting composition according to this embodiment as a substitute for glutathione or in combination with it, the cost associated with the application of glutathione preparations can be reduced.

[0081] Furthermore, a composition according to one aspect of the present invention can enhance the plant growth promoting effect of glutathione. For example, it may enhance the plant growth promoting effect of glutathione contained in a glutathione-containing preparation. For example, it may enhance the plant growth promoting effect of peptione, which is a glutathione preparation.

[0082] The plant growth promoting composition according to this embodiment is easy to manufacture because the raw materials for the formulation are readily available. Furthermore, since the unit cost of the formulation is low, it can be expected to be used in a wide range of fields.

[0083] [2. Combination of plant growth promoting composition and glutathione] The present invention also provides a combination for promoting plant growth (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as "combination") comprising the plant growth promoting composition of the present invention and glutathione.

[0084] Examples of compositions and glutathione are as illustrated above.

[0085] In one embodiment of the combination, the plant growth promoting composition and glutathione are a combination of separate formulations for use in combination with these preparations. Other components and dosage forms included in the plant growth promoting composition are those described in [1. Plant Growth Promoting Composition] above.

[0086] The combination can be suitably used in the plant cultivation method of the present invention. A specific example of the combination is a combination prepared by preparing a plant growth promoting composition and a glutathione preparation as separate plant growth promoting agents, and using these preparations in combination.

[0087] Furthermore, when the glutathione preparation and the plant growth promoting composition are in the form of separate drugs, each composition may contain the same components as other components, or it may contain different components.

[0088] The combination of this embodiment can be used to apply the plant growth promoting composition and glutathione in appropriate amounts and at appropriate times, depending on the growth stage or state of the plant.

[0089] The respective mixing ratios of glutathione and the plant growth promoting composition in one embodiment of the present invention are not particularly limited. For example, they can be set in the same manner as the ratio of glutathione and the plant growth promoting composition when applied, as exemplified in [3. Plant Cultivation Method] below. The combination of the present invention is useful as a combination for promoting plant growth.

[0090] [3. Method for cultivating plants] A method for cultivating plants according to one aspect of the present invention includes the step of applying the above-mentioned plant growth promoting composition to a plant or its cultivation soil (plant growth promoting composition application step).

[0091] Furthermore, one embodiment of the plant cultivation method further includes a step of applying glutathione to the plant or the cultivation soil (glutathione application step). In other words, one embodiment of the plant cultivation method is a cultivation method in which a plant growth promoting composition is applied as a substitute for glutathione. Another embodiment of the plant cultivation method is a cultivation method in which glutathione and a plant growth promoting composition are used in combination.

[0092] In a method for cultivating plants according to one aspect of the present invention, the composition of the present invention described above is used. The details are as described in [1. Composition].

[0093] (Cultivation soil) Regarding cultivation soil, there are no restrictions on the type of soil, and examples include growing media used for cultivation, such as natural soil and artificial soil. It also includes media such as hydroponic solutions used in hydroponics.

[0094] (Application process for plant growth promoting composition and glutathione application process) The following is a description of the "application process for plant growth promoting composition" and the "application process for glutathione," as well as the application amounts for each process. The descriptions apply to both cultivation methods that include the application process for plant growth promoting composition but not the application process for glutathione, and cultivation methods that include both the application process for plant growth promoting composition and the application process for glutathione.

[0095] The timing of applying the plant growth-promoting composition or glutathione in the plant growth-promoting composition application step or glutathione application step of the present invention is not particularly limited. The plant growth-promoting composition or glutathione may be applied under conditions that allow the plant to constantly absorb them, or the plant growth-promoting composition or glutathione may be applied intermittently throughout the cultivation period under conditions that allow the plant to absorb them, or the plant growth-promoting composition or glutathione may be applied only during specific growth periods. Examples of intermittent conditions include application at intervals of once or twice a week, or at intervals such as each time of transplanting (repotting).

[0096] By intermittently applying the plant growth promoting composition of the present invention or glutathione, the amount of the plant growth promoting composition or glutathione used can be reduced, thereby further lowering the cost of plant cultivation. When intermittently applying the plant growth promoting composition or glutathione of the present invention, it is preferable to apply them at regular time intervals, but the invention is not limited to this, and they may be applied at irregular time intervals. For example, the plant growth promoting composition or glutathione of the present invention may be applied from the time the plant seeds are sown. Alternatively, it may be applied to the soil before plant sowing.

[0097] Specifically, when administering the plant growth-promoting composition of the present invention to plants, or when administering glutathione, it may be applied at any time or period, such as before sowing, at the time of sowing, after sowing, during the seedling growth period, or from the day of sowing until harvest. The intervals at which the plant growth-promoting composition of the present invention is administered or the intervals at which glutathione is administered are not particularly limited, but examples include once every 5 days to 1 week, once every 5 days to 2 weeks, once every 5 days to 2 months, or once during the growing period.

[0098] Furthermore, the time intervals for applying the plant growth promoting composition of the present invention or the time intervals for applying glutathione are not particularly limited and should be determined according to the concentration of the plant growth promoting composition or glutathione applied, the target plant, and the timing of application of the plant growth promoting composition or glutathione of the present invention. Generally, if the target plant is a herbaceous plant, it is preferable to apply it once or twice a week, or at the same time as the top dressing period.

[0099] When applying the plant growth-promoting composition of the present invention or glutathione only at specific times, the plant growth-promoting composition of the present invention or glutathione may be applied under conditions that allow plants to continuously absorb the plant growth-promoting composition or glutathione for a certain period at a specific time, or the plant growth-promoting composition of the present invention or glutathione may be applied intermittently for a certain period at a specific time under conditions that allow plants to absorb the plant growth-promoting composition or glutathione. By intermittently applying the plant growth-promoting composition of the present invention or glutathione for a certain period at a specific time, the cost of cultivating plants can be further reduced.

[0100] (Regarding the application rate of plant growth promoting compositions or glutathione) The amount of plant growth promoting composition applied to plants can be adjusted according to its concentration, application method, and the target plants.

[0101] Similarly, the amount of glutathione applied to plants can be adjusted according to its concentration, application method, and the type of plant being treated.

[0102] The concentration of the plant growth-promoting composition or glutathione applied during the cultivation period is not particularly limited. By applying the plant growth-promoting composition to plants or their cultivation soil, the growth of the plants can be effectively promoted compared to when the plant growth-promoting composition is not applied.

[0103] Furthermore, the ratio of glutathione to plant growth-promoting composition applied to plants throughout a certain cultivation period is not particularly limited and can be adjusted as appropriate. For example, the respective application amounts of the plant growth-promoting composition and glutathione are determined so that the plant growth rate is equal to or greater than that of glutathione alone.

[0104] In another example, a plant growth-promoting composition and glutathione are applied to plants in a ratio that allows them to synergistically enhance the plant growth-promoting effect.

[0105] When glutathione is converted to GSSG, the plant-derived components in the plant growth-promoting composition used as a substitute or in combination are applied in amounts such as 1 to 1,000 parts by mass, 1 to 500 parts by mass, or 10 to 200 parts by mass, relative to a total amount of GSSG of 0 to 100 parts by mass (all converted as mass and parts by mass of free GSSG).

[0106] The above examples of quantity ratios can also be applied to quantity ratios when the plant growth-promoting composition to be applied and glutathione are separate formulations, quantity ratios when glutathione is included in a single plant growth-promoting composition, and ratios of the total amount applied to the plant.

[0107] (Regarding the method of applying the plant growth promoting composition) The method of applying the solid plant growth promoting composition is not particularly limited, and one example is to mix the solid plant growth promoting composition into the soil in which the plants are grown.

[0108] Furthermore, when the plant growth promoting composition is applied to the cultivation soil in granular form, the concentration of the active ingredient in the plant growth promoting composition is not particularly limited as it varies depending on the size of the plant, but for example, it is 0.1 mg to 100 g per plant.

[0109] Furthermore, when the plant growth promoting composition is applied as a solid composition, such as tablets, powders, or granules, it may be mixed into or poured into the soil used for growing the plants. It is also possible to ensure that the plants come into direct contact with the granules by, for example, placing the granules in the holes where seedlings will be planted in the soil before planting the seedlings, as in the examples. When applied to hydroponically grown plants, it may be dissolved gradually in water. It may also be provided as a solid agent for dissolving in water, and dissolved in water when used.

[0110] Furthermore, as a method of applying the plant growth promoting composition, the plant growth promoting composition may be mixed into the soil in which the plants are grown, the plants may be immersed in the plant growth promoting composition, or the plant growth promoting composition may be sprayed or applied to the plants or their soil. Alternatively, the plant growth promoting composition may be sprayed onto the plants or their soil, or the plant growth promoting composition may be irrigated onto the plants or their soil.

[0111] (Timing of application when plant growth promoting composition and glutathione are used in combination) When plant growth promoting composition and glutathione are used in combination, the plant growth promoting composition and glutathione may be administered at the same time or separately.

[0112] If the plant growth-promoting composition and glutathione are contained in separate formulations, the plant growth-promoting composition and glutathione may be administered simultaneously, or glutathione may be administered before or after the administration of the plant growth-promoting composition.

[0113] In the plant growth-promoting composition administration step and the glutathione administration step, the plant growth-promoting composition and glutathione may be administered simultaneously or mixed together, or they may be administered at different times or consecutively. The glutathione and plant growth-promoting composition used in the cultivation method of the present invention may be in the form of the compositions of the present invention described above or in the form of a combination thereof, or they may be prepared separately. Furthermore, the glutathione or plant growth-promoting composition applied during a certain cultivation period may be only one type each, or there may be multiple types with different components contained in the composition.

[0114] According to the plant cultivation method of the present invention, by using a plant growth promoting composition as a substitute for glutathione or in combination with glutathione, plant growth can be sufficiently promoted even without glutathione or with a smaller amount of glutathione than conventionally applied, thus reducing the amount of glutathione applied during the cultivation period. Furthermore, the plant growth promoting composition is cheaper to obtain than glutathione, is highly safe, and can be easily manufactured. As a result, it is possible to cultivate plants with high yield and low cost.

[0115] [Summary] The present invention encompasses any of the following embodiments: <1> A plant growth promoting composition comprising a plant-derived component as an active ingredient, having plant growth promoting activity, wherein the active ingredient enhances the plant growth promoting effect of glutathione. <2> The plant growth promoting composition according to <1>, used as a substitute for glutathione or in combination with glutathione. <3> The plant growth promoting composition according to <1> or <2>, wherein the plant-derived component is at least one selected from the group consisting of wheat germ, rice bran, green leaves, sprouts, brown algae, and green algae. <4> The plant growth promoting composition according to any one of <1> to <3>, further comprising a solid carrier, wherein the solid carrier is at least one selected from the group consisting of bentonite, activated carbon, and zeolite. <5> The plant growth promoting composition according to any one of <1> to <4>, further comprising glutathione. <6> The plant growth promoting composition according to any one of <1> to <5>, wherein the composition is granular. <7> The plant growth promoting composition according to any one of <4> to <6>, wherein the plant-derived component is wheat germ and the solid carrier is calcium-type bentonite. <8> A plant growth promoting combination comprising the plant growth promoting composition according to any one of <1> to <7> and glutathione. <9> A method for cultivating plants, comprising the step of applying the plant growth promoting composition according to any one of <1> to <7> to a plant or its cultivation soil. <10> The method for cultivating plants according to <9>, further comprising the step of applying glutathione to a plant or its cultivation soil.

[0116] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims. Embodiments obtained by appropriately combining the technical means disclosed in different embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

[0117] Examples of the present invention are described below.

[0118] [Example 1. Preparation of a plant growth promoting composition] (Materials) The following substances were used as materials.

[0119] Peption (registered trademark) (Kunimine Industries Co., Ltd.) (Glutathione-containing growth-promoting fertilizer) Kunibond (registered trademark) (Kunimine Industries Co., Ltd.) (Calcium-type bentonite) Wheat germ (Product name: Wheat germ (Kinki Flour Milling Co., Ltd.)) Yeast extract (Product name: Yeast extract SG010 (Santoku Co., Ltd.)) (Preparation method) The above materials were mixed with water in the following weight ratios, squeezed using a commercially available garlic press (hole diameter 2 mm), dried, and then subdivided into granules. The resulting compositions were used as the granules for each developed product.

[0120] In addition, in Development Product 1, the granular form of peption was crushed into a powder before mixing. Conventional granular form) Peption 1 g Development Product 1) Wheat germ: Kunibond: Peption (powder) = 1:1:2 Development Product 2) Wheat germ: Kunibond: Peption (granular form) = 1:1:2 Development Product 3) Wheat germ: Kunibond = 1:2 The following Example 2 test was performed using the obtained composition.

[0121] [Example 2. Examination of the effect of fertilizing with various compositions on promoting plant growth] (Cultivation test 1 of Komatsuna) (Cultivation conditions and test method) As fertilization test plots, the control plot used no granular fertilizer application, and the test plots used conventional granular fertilizer and granular fertilizers 1 to 3, respectively.

[0122] Komatsuna (Japanese mustard spinach) was exposed to light for 16 hours at 25°C and 8 hours at 20°C, with a light intensity of PPFD: ca 200 μmol photons / m². 2 Under the conditions of / s, coconut peat (AICHI Medel Co., Ltd.) was used as the growing medium. After sowing seeds in a 128-cell tray, the seedlings were transplanted into pots with a base diameter of 6 cm, a top diameter of 8 cm, and a height of 7 cm, with one seedling per pot. Plant growth experiments were then conducted using 4 to 8 seedlings.

[0123] First, sowing was carried out on September 13, 2024. Next, on September 24, the seedlings were transplanted into the pots mentioned above, and the tests were started by applying the respective compositions for each test plot. Fertilization was carried out by directly placing the composition for each test plot under the seedlings when transplanting them into holes made in the growing medium of the pots. In addition, Hyponex was applied on the following dates and under the following conditions: September 30: Hyponex (6-10-5) 1,000-fold dilution 50 mL / pot October 7: Hyponex (6-10-5) 1,000-fold dilution 50 mL / pot October 13: Hyponex (6-10-5) 1,000-fold dilution 50 mL / pot The amount of glutathione applied, the amount of liquid nitrogen applied, and the amount of granular nitrogen applied were calculated from the applied compositions. The calculation methods used for each were as follows.

[0124] The amount of liquid fertilizer nitrogen applied was calculated from the nitrogen content of the applied Hyponex.

[0125] The amount of granular nitrogen to be applied was calculated by analyzing the total nitrogen content contained in the germ, peptione, or yeast extract using the following method, and using that value.

[0126] (Total Nitrogen Analysis Method) Approximately 30 mg of germ, peptione, or yeast extract was analyzed using a carbon-nitrogen analyzer vario MAX cube (Elementor Co., Ltd.) to quantify the total nitrogen content.

[0127] The amount of glutathione administered was calculated by quantifying the glutathione content of peptione, germ, and yeast extract using the following method.

[0128] (Glutathione Quantification Method) Crushed germ or yeast extract was extracted with 4% sulfosalicylic acid, and the supernatant after centrifugation was used to measure total glutathione (reduced + oxidized). In addition, 4 μl of 2-vinylpyridine was added to 100 μl of the extract and stirred, then 30.8 μl of 20% triethanolamine was added and stirred, and the lower layer after centrifugation was used to measure oxidized glutathione. The measurements were performed according to the method of Baker et al. (MABaker, GJCerniglia, and A. Zaman. (1990) Analytical Biochemistry. 190, 360) using the glutathione reductase-DTNB (5,5'-Dithiobis (2-nitrobenzonic acid)) recycling method. To the extracts for total glutathione and oxidized glutathione measurement, a reaction solution [45 mM potassium phosphate buffer (pH 7.5) containing 0.25 mM DTNB (5,5'-Dithiobis-(2-nitrobenzoic acid)), 0.3 units / ml glutathione reductase, and 0.45 mM EDTA] was added, and the reaction was started by adding 5 mM NADPH. The formation of 5-Mercapto-2-nitrobenzoic acid was determined from the initial rate of increase in absorbance at 405 nm. The amounts of total glutathione and oxidized glutathione were calculated using calibration curves prepared with standard substances. The amount of reduced glutathione was calculated by subtracting the amount of oxidized glutathione from the amount of total glutathione.

[0129] On October 16, 2024 (four weeks and five days after sowing, and three weeks and one day after transplanting (start of granular pesticide application)), photographs were taken of the growth status of the komatsuna plants in each test plot. In addition, the fresh weight and height of the above-ground parts of the komatsuna plants in each test plot were measured three weeks and one day after transplanting (start of granular pesticide application).

[0130] (Results) Figure 1 shows the growth status of komatsuna in each test plot and the amount of each nutrient per plant in each test plot.

[0131] Figure 2 compares the fresh weight and height of the above-ground parts of komatsuna (Japanese mustard spinach) in each test plot. The values ​​shown are median values.

[0132] The following (1) to (3) became clear from Figures 1 and 2.

[0133] (1) Compared to the application of conventional granular formulation (glutathione application rate of 10 mg), when the developed product 3 (wheat germ + Kunibond (glutathione application rate of 0.85 mg)) was applied, the fresh weight and height of the above-ground parts increased significantly.

[0134] The results above indicate that a composition containing wheat germ and Kunibond has a sufficiently high plant growth-promoting effect even without glutathione application.

[0135] (2) Furthermore, compared to the case where conventional granular formulations were applied (glutathione application rate 10 mg), the experimental plots where Development Product 1 or Development Product 2 was applied (wheat germ + Kunibond + peption (glutathione application rate 5.5 mg)) showed an increase in the above-ground fresh weight of plants of approximately 2.1 times and 1.8 times, respectively, and the plant height also increased by approximately 1.2 times and 1.1 times, respectively.

[0136] The results above show that when wheat germ and Kunibond are applied, plant growth increases even when the amount of glutathione applied to plants is reduced by about half compared to when glutathione granules are applied conventionally.

[0137] Referring to the results in (1) and (2) above, compared to the application of conventional granular formulations, when granular formulations containing wheat germ and Kunibond were applied, plant growth was significantly promoted even without glutathione application, or even with a reduced amount of glutathione application. Therefore, it was found that granular formulations containing wheat germ and Kunibond exert a synergistic effect in promoting plant growth when applied simultaneously with glutathione. Furthermore, it was found that by using it as a substitute for glutathione, or in combination with glutathione, plant growth can be increased while reducing the amount of glutathione applied compared to conventional methods.

[0138] (3) When Development Product 1 or Development Product 2 was applied (wheat germ + Kunibond + Peption (glutathione application amount 5.5 mg)), the above-ground fresh weight when Development Product 1 or Development Product 2 was applied was 5.1 to 6.0 times greater than the above-ground fresh weight in the control group without granular application.

[0139] The results of (3) above suggest that the combination of wheat germ and Kunibond, especially when used in combination with peptione, may enhance the plant growth promoting effect of peptione, or the plant growth promoting effect of glutathione contained in peptione.

[0140] [Example 3. Preparation of a plant growth promoting composition 2] (Materials) The following substances were used as materials.

[0141] Kunibond (registered trademark) (Kunimine Industries Co., Ltd.) (calcium-type bentonite) Neo Kunibond (registered trademark) (Kunimine Industries Co., Ltd.) (sodium-type (Na-type) bentonite) (activated bentonite with Ca substituted with Na) Wheat germ (product name: Wheat germ (Kinki Flour Milling Co., Ltd.)) (Preparation method) The above materials were mixed with water in the following weight ratios, squeezed out using a commercially available garlic press (hole diameter 2 mm), dried, and then subdivided to form granules. The obtained compositions were used as granules for each developed product. Granule test sample 1) Wheat germ: Kunibond = 1:1 Granule test sample 2) Wheat germ: Kunibond = 1:2 Granule test sample 3) Wheat germ: Neo Kunibond = 1:1 Granule test sample 4) Wheat germ: Neo Kunibond = 1:2 The following Example 4 test was performed using the obtained compositions.

[0142] [Example 4. Examination of the effect of fertilizing various compositions on promoting plant growth] (Cultivation test of cypress) (Cultivation conditions and test method) Granular test products 1 to 4 were used as fertilization test plots.

[0143] For cypress trees, under conditions of 15 hours of light at 28°C and 9 hours of dark at 20°C, the light intensity was measured using PPFD: ca 150±15 μmol photons / m². 2Under the conditions of / s, a culture medium was used consisting of a mixture of rice hulls, Kunibond, and purified water cake in amounts of 30g, 30g, and 15g per 300cc pot. Plant growth experiments were conducted using 6 plants.

[0144] First, on August 30, 2024, the small plug seedlings were transplanted into the pots mentioned above. The test was started by applying each of the compositional test products obtained in Example 3 as fertilizer. When transplanting, the granular compositional test products obtained in Example 3 were placed in the planting holes in the amounts of each component shown in Figure 3, and then the seedlings were placed in the holes to fertilize. On October 9, 2024 (40 days after transplanting the small plug seedlings (after the start of granular application)), photographs were taken of the growth status of the cypress plants in each test plot.

[0145] Figure 3 shows the amount of each component per plant individual fertilized in each test plot, and the growth state of cypress trees after fertilization with various compositions.

[0146] When Kunibond granules were applied as fertilizer, the higher the Kunibond content, the better the plant growth.

[0147] When Neo-Kunibond granules were applied, the growth-promoting effect was lower than when Kunibond granules were applied.

[0148] From the above, it was found that the combination of wheat germ and calcium-type bentonite (Kunibond) is effective in further promoting plant growth.

[0149] [Example 5. Examination of the effect of fertilizing various compositions on promoting plant growth] (Cultivation test of Komatsuna 2) Granular test samples were prepared and prepared in the following weight ratios, similar to the preparation method in Example 3 above, and used in the following cultivation test. Development product 3) Wheat germ: Kunibond = 1:2 Development product 5) Wheat germ: Kunibond = 1:1 (Cultivation conditions and test method) The cultivation conditions and test method were the same as in Example 2. Cultivation was carried out in a greenhouse.

[0150] Four weeks after transplanting (after the start of granular fertilizer application), the fresh weight of the above-ground parts of the komatsuna plants in each test plot was measured, and the growth rate and relative growth rate per unit of applied granular nitrogen were calculated.

[0151] (Results) Figure 4 compares the above-ground fresh weight, growth rate per unit of granular nitrogen fertilizer applied, and relative growth rate of komatsuna in each test plot. The fresh weight is the median value, and the growth rate was calculated from the median value.

[0152] As shown in Figure 4, both development products 3 and 5 showed higher plant growth promoting effects compared to the conventional formulation peptione. Furthermore, it was found that increasing the proportion of Kunibond (Ca-type bentonite) further improved the plant growth promoting activity of wheat germ.

[0153] [Example 6. Examination of the effect of fertilizing various compositions on promoting plant growth] (Cultivation test 3 of Komatsuna) Granular test samples were prepared in the same manner as in Example 3 above, with the material substances in the following weight ratios, and were used in the following cultivation test. Granular test sample (i) Wheat germ: Kunibond = 1:1 Granular test sample (ii) Wheat germ: Kunibond = 1:1 The wheat germ used as material for the granular test samples was used as follows. Granular test sample (i): Untreated germ was used as the preparation material Granular test sample (ii): Germ after drying was used as the preparation material (Cultivation conditions and test method) The cultivation conditions and test method were carried out in the same manner as in Example 5.

[0154] Two weeks and four days after transplanting (after the start of granular fertilizer application), the fresh weight of the above-ground parts of the komatsuna plants in each test plot was measured, and the growth rate per unit of applied granular fertilizer and nitrogen was calculated.

[0155] (Results) Figure 5 compares the above-ground fresh weight and growth rate per unit of granular nitrogen fertilizer applied to komatsuna in each test plot. The fresh weight is the median value, and the growth rate was calculated from the median value.

[0156] As shown in Figure 5, when comparing granular test product (i), which was prepared by crushing untreated germ, mixing it with Kunibond (bentonite) without a drying process, granulating it, and drying it, with granular test product (ii), which was prepared by crushing, drying, and then pulverizing it before granulating, granular test product (i) showed greater fresh weight and growth. Thus, there was a clear difference in growth-promoting activity between granular test product (i) and granular test product (ii). From this, it was found that germ, among the components of the granular test product, possesses growth-promoting activity, and that this activity is lost through the crushing and drying processes.

[0157] [Example 7. Examination of the effect of fertilizing various compositions on promoting plant growth] Granular test samples were prepared in the same manner as in Example 3 above, with the material substances in the following weight ratios, and were used in the following cultivation tests. Granular test sample (iv) Wheat germ: Kunibond: Activated carbon = 0:3:2 Granular test sample (v) Wheat germ: Activated carbon = 0:1 Here, the activated carbon used as material for the granular test samples was one on which the glutathione-containing components of the wheat germ extract had been adsorbed in advance.

[0158] (Cultivation conditions and test methods) The cultivation conditions and test methods were carried out in the same manner as in Example 3.

[0159] Two weeks and four days after transplanting (after the start of granular fertilizer application), the fresh weight of the above-ground parts of the komatsuna plants in each test plot was measured, and the growth rate per unit of applied nitrogen was calculated.

[0160] (Results) Figure 6 compares the above-ground fresh weight and growth rate per unit of applied nitrogen in each test plot of komatsuna (Japanese mustard spinach). The fresh weight is the median value, and the growth rate was calculated from the median value.

[0161] As shown in Figure 6, it was found that even if glutathione preparations are used as glutathione fertilizer, using only plant (embryo) components adsorbed by activated carbon, the effect of nitrogen fertilization can be enhanced and plant growth can be promoted.

[0162] [Example 8. Examination of the effect of fertilizing various compositions on promoting plant growth] (Cultivation test 5 of Komatsuna) Similar to the preparation method in Example 3 above, granular test samples were prepared and manufactured in the following weight ratios and used in the following cultivation test. Conventional granular product) Peption 1 g Development product 1) Wheat germ: Kunibond: Peption (powder) = 1:1:2 Development product 2) Wheat germ: Kunibond: Peption (granular) = 1:1:2 (Development product 5 and conventional formulation (Peption) mixed in equal amounts) Development product 4) Wheat germ: Kunibond: Yeast extract = 13:26:1 Development product 5) Wheat germ: Kunibond = 1:1 Here, in this example, Development product 2 was granulated by mixing Development product 5 and the conventional formulation (Peption) in equal amounts.

[0163] For the fertilization test plots, the control plot used no granular fertilizer application, while the test plots used either conventional granular fertilizer or the granular fertilizers 1-5 described above.

[0164] (Cultivation conditions) Cultivation was carried out in a pipe greenhouse under the following conditions: Pipe greenhouse: 8 m wide x 15 m deep, single-span agricultural PO outer covering (Hana Yasai Soten 0.15 (Sumika Sekisui Film)), skylight, side windows, ventilation fan, inner curtain (Skycross 50 (Diatex Co., Ltd.)) Ventilation inside the greenhouse was set and managed to maintain a temperature of approximately 25-28°C on sunny days.

[0165] 50L of seed-starting soil (Takii Seed Co., Ltd.) was used as the growing medium for sowing and raising seedlings. 20L of flower and vegetable soil (Takii Seed Co., Ltd.) was used as the soil after transplanting seedlings. No pesticides were used. The composition of the growing medium was as follows: Seed-starting soil (nitrogen:phosphorus:potassium = 250:170:250) Flower and vegetable soil (nitrogen:phosphorus:potassium = 300:500:450) (Cultivation test method) Germination: On September 28, 2024, komatsuna seeds were placed on a water-soaked paper towel in a sealed container (plastic Tupperware) to allow them to absorb water, and then placed in a 30°C insulated container to germinate. Sowing and raising seedlings: On October 2, 2024, germinated seeds were sown in a 128-cell tray (25mL per cell). 28mL of growing medium was packed into each cell, and after thorough watering, sowing holes were made approximately 1cm deep. After sowing, the trays were watered as needed in the greenhouse and the seedlings were grown. Transplanting: On October 11, 2024, seedlings with two true leaves were transplanted into 7.5 cm poly pots. Each pot was filled with 220 mL of growing medium, watered thoroughly, and then a hole for transplanting was made. The test granules were applied to these planting holes. Eight plants were transplanted from each test plot, for a total of 32 plants. Top dressing: On October 23, 2024, 15 mL of 500-fold diluted Hyponex was applied to each pot as top dressing. Harvesting: On October 28, 2024, the above-ground part of the plant was cut just below the cotyledons, and the fresh weight was measured. The amount of nitrogen fertilizer applied per individual plant was kept the same for both the conventional formulation and the development product 5.

[0166] (Results) Figure 7 shows a comparison of the above-ground fresh weight of komatsuna in the control group, the conventional granular formulation, and the development product 5 and development product 2 test groups.

[0167] Figure 8 shows the growth status of komatsuna in the control group, the conventional granular formulation, and the test plots for development product 5 and development product 2.

[0168] Figure 9 shows the above-ground fresh weight of komatsuna in each test plot and the amount of each nutrient per plant in each test plot to which fertilizer was applied. Note that the fresh weight represents the median value.

[0169] Based on the results obtained, if product 2 simply has an additive effect of the conventional formulation and product 5, then the fresh weight of the group treated with product 2 should be the average of the fresh weights of the group treated with the conventional formulation and the group treated with product 5.

[0170] However, the group treated with development product 2 showed an increase in fresh weight compared to the group treated with the conventional formulation or the group treated with development product 5. In other words, it had a higher growth-promoting effect than the conventional formulation or development product 5.

[0171] The results above indicated that product 2 exhibited a remarkable growth-promoting effect due to the synergistic effect of the conventional glutathione preparation and product 5 (wheat germ + Kunibond).

[0172] [Example 9. Examination of the effect of fertilizing various compositions on promoting plant growth] (Cultivation test of bok choy) Granular test samples were prepared and manufactured in the following weight ratios, similar to the preparation method in Example 3 above, and used in the following cultivation test. Conventional granules) Peption 1g Development product 1) Wheat germ: Kunibond: Peption (powder) = 1:1:2 Development product 2) Wheat germ: Kunibond: Peption (granules) = 1:1:2 (Development product 5 and conventional formulation (Peption) mixed in equal amounts) Development product 4) Wheat germ: Kunibond: Yeast extract = 13:26:1 Development product 5) Wheat germ: Kunibond = 1:1 Here, in this example, Development product 2 was granulated by mixing Development product 5 and the conventional formulation (Peption) in equal amounts.

[0173] For the fertilization test plots, the control plot used no granular fertilizer application, while the test plots used either conventional granular fertilizer or the granular fertilizers 1-5 described above.

[0174] (Cultivation conditions) Cultivation was carried out in a pipe greenhouse under the same conditions as in Example 8.

[0175] (Cultivation Experiment Method) Sowing: Seeds were sown in a 128-cell tray on October 4, 2024. Transplanting: Seedlings were transplanted on October 16, 2024. Granular fertilizer was applied to the planting holes at the time of transplanting. The above-ground fresh weight was measured on October 16, 2024.

[0176] (Results) Figure 10 shows the above-ground fresh weight of bok choy in each test plot and the amount of each nutrient per plant in each test plot to which fertilizer was applied.

[0177] Similar to the results for komatsuna in Example 8, in the case of bok choy, the group treated with Development Product 2 showed an increase in fresh weight compared to the group treated with the conventional formulation or the group treated with Development Product 5. In other words, it had a higher growth-promoting effect than the conventional formulation or Development Product 5.

[0178] The results above indicated that in bok choy, development product 2 also exhibited a significant growth-promoting effect due to the synergistic effect of the conventional formulation and development product 5.

[0179] [Example 10. Examination of the effect of fertilizing with various compositions on promoting plant growth 2] (Cultivation test of Japanese cypress) In the cultivation test of Japanese cypress in Example 4, the Japanese cypress trees that were fertilized in each test plot shown in Figure 3 were dissected and examined. The Japanese cypress plants in Example 4 were cut at ground level on December 24, 2024, and the weight of the above-ground parts was measured. The results are shown in Figure 11.

[0180] Figure 11 shows the above-ground weight of cypress trees that were fertilized in each test plot.

[0181] In terms of above-ground weight, similar to the results in Figure 3 of Example 4, when Kunibond granules were applied, growth was better the higher the Kunibond content, and when Neo Kunibond granules were applied, the growth-promoting effect was lower than when Kunibond granules were applied.

[0182] [Example 11. Examination of the effect of fertilizing various compositions on promoting plant growth] (Rice cultivation test) Granular test samples were prepared and prepared in the weight ratio shown in Figure 12 and used in the following cultivation test.

[0183] Yeast extract product A is a commercially available yeast extract product.

[0184] (Cultivation conditions) A mixture of 10g King Soil and vermiculite was used as the growing medium. 120mL of the above medium was placed in a 160mL pot. Light period 15 h, 28℃, dark period 9 h, 20℃, light intensity PPFD: ca 120-150 μmol photons / m 2 Seedlings were grown under the / s condition.

[0185] After sowing, the granular test product was applied 12 days later, and the above-ground weight was measured 31 days later.

[0186] (Results) Figure 12 shows the growth status of rice in each test plot (upper left), the above-ground fresh weight of rice in each test plot (upper right), and the amount of each nutrient per plant in each test plot to which fertilizer was applied (bottom). The graph shows the average values ​​for five plants.

[0187] This invention can be used in fields such as agriculture, forestry, and fisheries.

Claims

1. A plant growth promoting composition containing plant-derived components as active ingredients, having plant growth promoting activity, wherein the active ingredients enhance the plant growth promoting effect of glutathione.

2. The plant growth promoting composition according to claim 1, which is used as a substitute for glutathione or in combination with glutathione.

3. The plant growth promoting composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the plant-derived component is at least one selected from the group consisting of wheat germ, rice bran, green leaves, sprouts, brown algae, and green algae.

4. The plant growth promoting composition according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a solid carrier, wherein the solid carrier is at least one selected from the group consisting of bentonite, activated carbon, and zeolite.

5. The plant growth promoting composition according to claim 1, further comprising glutathione.

6. The plant growth promoting composition according to claim 1, wherein the composition is in granular form.

7. The plant growth promoting composition according to claim 4, wherein the plant-derived component is wheat germ, and the solid carrier is calcium-type bentonite.

8. A plant growth promoting combination comprising the plant growth promoting composition described in claim 1, glutathione, and 9. A method for cultivating plants, comprising the step of applying the plant growth promoting composition described in claim 1 to a plant or its cultivation soil.

10. The method for cultivating plants according to claim 9, further comprising the step of applying glutathione to the plants or the soil in which they are cultivated.

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