| Abstract: | We studied the influence of a weak, extremely low-frequency magnetic field (MF) with a frequency of 50 Hz and a peak amplitude of 103 μT and aluminum solution (in the form of AlCl3) at different concentrations (0, 40, 70, 100, 130, 160, 400, 800, 2000, and 5000 μM) on the growth of spruce seedlings (Picea abies). The results showed that stimulatory and statistically significant MF effects on the growth of seedlings were observed only with a 100-μM aluminum solution. Slight stimulative effects were also observed within the range of concentrations between 40 and 160 μM Al3+ (all the stimulated groups taken together). Germination and fresh weight were not significantly influenced. At these concentrations the aluminum solution alone (without MF) or the MF alone (without Al3+) did not influence the growth parameters. These results suggest the importance of synergistic action of the MF with environmental factors as well as the existence of “physiologic windows” in addition to the frequency and power ones. |
