ALEX ORUKPE

Common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) are a vital food crop in Nigeria, valued for their rich protein content and contribution to food security. However, challenges in seed germination and early seedling establishment often limit productivity. This study examined the effects of three growth regulators Indole-3-Acetic Acid (IAA), Sodium Nitroprusside (SNP), and Vitamin C (Vit C) on the germination, early growth, and field performance of brown and white bean varieties. Seeds were primed with 100, 500, and 1000 ppm concentrations of each regulator, germinated on cotton wool, and later transplanted to nursery and field conditions. Parameters such as germination rate, shoot and root length, root number, biomass, and moisture content were evaluated. Results showed that SNP treatments produced the best overall growth, significantly enhancing germination rate, shoot elongation, and field performance. Vitamin C improved vegetative growth and seedling vigor, while high concentrations of IAA negatively affected germination and early development. The study concludes that moderate SNP concentrations can effectively promote seedling establishment and growth, and recommends further research on long-term yield impacts and varietal responses. These findings provide insight into optimizing bean production through the targeted use of plant growth regulators

With Earth facing challenges such as increased urbanization, land degradation, pollution, and population growth, the search for alternative human settlement sites has gained momentum. Scientists are exploring space colonization as a potential solution, but microgravity presents significant obstacles to plant growth and food production in space. This study investigates the growth of maize seeds under simulated microgravity conditions using a clinostat. Maize seeds treated with growth stimulators (Vitamin C and Indole butyric acid) were subjected to clinorotation for 120 hours. Conducted at the Space-Earth Environment Research Laboratory, University of Benin, the experiment revealed morphological changes in maize seedlings exposed to microgravity. Height and length increased, while girth decreased compared to the control group. Minimal differences were observed in leaf number, sugar, and protein content between the control and microgravity-stimulated groups. These findings highlight the need for further research to understand the molecular mechanisms driving plant responses to microgravity and optimize space agriculture for future human habitation beyond Earth.