The Effect of Laser Stimulation on the Yield and Quality of Oat Grain

Abstract

The paper describes the effect of laser stimulation on the yield and quality of grain of naked and shelled oats in the conditions of the Northwest of Russia. The method is based on exposure of red light with a wavelength of 650 nm, a radiation power of 150 MW, and an exposure of 30 s. The processing was carried out in the tillering stage, while the varieties of naked and shelled oats showed different results. Laser radiation triggers the cascade mechanism for the synthesis of complex organic compounds, increasing the yield of shelled oats by 25%. In addition, the amount of carbohydrates and protein in the grain increases, which has a positive effect on its nutritional value. Laser treatment of naked oats had no effect, which is connected with the lack of rainfall during the activation of biochemical processes under the influence of light. The obtained data allow us to identify the optimal growth phase for stimulation on various varieties of oats. The proposed technology can be adapted in the production of forage crops in order to reduce the usage of chemical protection products and fertilizers, as well as in the production of organic products.