Utilization of growth-promoters to improve biomass productivity of Arundo donax L. (NileFiber[TM]) as a purpose-grown biofuel feedstock in Nova Scotia

Abstract

Arundo donax L. is a perennial grass species of Mediterranean origin. Its characteristic high growth rate and biomass yield potential have attributed to its viability as a biofuel feedstock in its native climate. The goal of this research was to evaluate the growth potential of a proprietary genotype of A. donax (NileFiber[TM]) on low-quality land in Nova Scotia as a purpose-grown biofuel feedstock. Applications of plant growth-promoters (bacterial and fungal species) and plant stimulants (seaweed extract and lipo-chitooligosaccharide) were investigated for their ability to enhance NileFiber[TM] biomass productivity. Growth-promoters were applied in three experimental trials (two greenhouse, one field) and were compared to untreated plants in both environments. Growth potential was determined by growth measurements taken at harvest and by calculating biomass yield. Experimental evaluation suggests A. donax is not a suitable biomass feedstock in Nova Scotia but that growth-promoters can enhance NileFiber[TM] productivity.