Combined Application of Brown Sugar Solution and Yeast Extract, Enhanced Germination and Seedling Establishment of Corn (Zea mays L. IPB var. 6)

Abstract

Corn (Zea mays L.) productivity largely depends on rapid germination and strong early seedling establishment. This study evaluated the effects of sucrose solution and yeast extract concentrations on the germination and early growth of corn (Zea mays L. IPB var. 6). A two-factor factorial experiment arranged in a Completely Randomized Design with three replications was conducted under laboratory conditions. Factor A consisted of two treatments (pure water and 80 g L⁻¹ brown sugar solution), while Factor B included four yeast extract concentrations (0, 5, 10, and 20 mL L⁻¹). Seeds were soaked in the respective solutions, germinated in Petri dishes for 5 days, and subsequently transferred to germination cups for 10 days. Data collected included germination percentage, germination rate, shoot length, root length, biomass, and established seedling growth. Results showed that brown sugar solution significantly increased germination rate but reduced shoot and root elongation during germination, while increasing biomass and shoot growth after transplanting. Yeast extract significantly affected all measured parameters, with 5 mL L⁻¹ consistently producing the highest germination percentage (89.50%), shoot length (5.18 cm), root length (5.41 cm), biomass (4.10 g), and seedling growth, whereas higher concentrations reduced effectiveness. Interaction effects revealed that 5 mL L⁻¹ yeast extract without brown sugar favored early germination and seedling elongation, whereas its combination with 80 g L⁻¹ brown sugar enhanced biomass accumulation after transplanting. The study concludes that 5 mL L⁻¹ yeast extract is the most effective concentration for improving early corn establishment, although responses varied with growth stage and brown sugar application.