Low-frequency electromagnetic field and hydrogel to increase survival rate and growth of European spruce (Picea abies L.) seedlings

This paper presents the results of a study that was conducted in the Sergiev Posad forestry of the Moscow region forestry Department with the participation of the laboratory of the Department of Forest crops, breeding and dendrology of the BMSTU (Mytishchi branch). This study shows the technology of planting European (Picea abies L.), seedlings in culture, which can significantly increase the survival rate of experimental samples and improve their biometric characteristics: height, diameter of the root neck, weight, and also the anatomical structure of seedlings. The experiments were performed using a low-frequency generator «Rost-Active», the author’s technology pre-sowing treatment of seeds and seedlings by an electromagnetic field, hydrogel (polymer water-retaining agent) and a method of histometric analysis of cross sections of control and experimental stems of European spruce seedlings. The results of the study indicate a clear positive effect of electromagnetic field and hydrogel on the increase in survival of experimental samples of seedlings of common European spruce in relation to the control. Also, the results of comparative histometric analysis indicate the effectiveness of methods for treating pine seedlings with low-frequency EMF and applying hydrogel to the soil.