Antibacterial activities of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) leaves used to enhance the growth of ladyfinger (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) plant

Abstract

This study explores the multiple benefits and management strategies of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L), a widely cultivated crop in the Indo-Pak subcontinent valued for its medicinal properties, including antidiabetic and antioxidant activities. The research investigates the antibacterial properties of chickpea (Cicer arietium L.) leaf extract against plant pathogens and its potential and its role as a bio stimulant for okra growth. Invitro experiments demonstrated that chickpea leaf extract exhibited antibacterial activities, with the highest inhibition zone (12 mm and 13 mm) against Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, respectively, at higher concentrations. Comparatively standards, antibiotics Gentamicin and Meropenem show greater inhibition, with Gentamicin yielding a 30 mm zone against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Additionally, Cadmium sulfate nanoparticles were synthesizing using chickpea leaf extract as an eco-friendly antimicrobial agent. A color shifts from yellow to greenish yellow indicated nanoparticles synthesis, confirmed by UV-visible spectroscopy with a peak at 350 nm. Invivo experiments involved the application of chickpea leaf powder as a soil amendment at different concentrations (1g, 3g, and 5g). The treatment significantly enhanced okra growth, with 1% chickpea leaf powder yielding optimal results in root and shoot development. Urea fertilizer was less effective compared with chickpea. These findings suggest that chickpea leaf products offer a sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers and pesticides, highlighting their potential in plant disease management and sustainable agriculture.