Biology, Medicine, & Natural Product Chemistry ISSN 2089-6514 (paper) 

Volume 14, Number 1, April 2025 | Pages: 129-141 | DOI: 10.14421/biomedich.2025.141.129-141 ISSN 2540-9328 (online) 
 

 

 

 

The Potential of Spirulina platensis Biostimulant as a Seed Priming 

Agent to Enhance the Vigor and Viability 

of Cucumber Seeds (Cucumis sativus) 

 
Fitri Ayu Rahmawati, Indah Wahyu Pratiwi, Kariena Samtani, Nuning Atuillah, Reza Aris Hidayatullah, 

Netty Ermawati, Rahmat Ali Sya'ban, Leli Kurniasari, Moch. Rosyadi Adnan* 
Department of Agricultural Production, Politeknik Negeri Jember, 

Jl. Mastrip PO BOX 164, Jember 68121, Tel. 0331333533, Fax. 0331333531, Indonesia. 

 

 

Corresponding author* 
moch.rosyadi@polije.ac.id 

 

 
Manuscript received: 29 November 2024. Revision accepted: 08 May, 2025. Published: 15 May, 2025. 

 

 

Abstract 

 

Spirulina platensis is a microalgae that can grow in waste media, including Sugar Mill Effluent (SME). In addition, Spirulina contains 

phytohormones that can be utilized to enhance seed germination. Cultivating microalgae will produce biomass that can be used for 

priming cucumber seeds. This research aims to determine the effect of Spirulina biomass and soaking time on the germination of 

cucumber seeds. In this research, a factorial Completely Randomized Design (CRD) was used, consisting of 5 levels of microalgae 

biomass concentration: control (untreated seeds), 0, 30, 45, and 60%, with soaking time of 3 levels: 1, 2, and 3 hours. The results 

demonstrated that Spirulina can grow in SME-based media, as indicated by the increase in size and density of microalgae cells.  Analysis 

of the seed priming test results of 45% algae biomass concentration for 1 and 3 hours showed a significant effect on the parameter of 

vigor index, seed growth rate, and simultaneous seed growth. In the treatment with a 60% concentration and soaking time of 1, 2, and 3 

hours, significant effects were observed on the parameters of MGT, vigor index, seed growth rate, and shoot length. Even though the 45% 

and 60% treatments showed no significant differences in the few parameters, the priming with Spirulina platensis exhibited no decrease in 

cucumber seed germination, these applications indicated no decrease in seed germination. This demonstrates that priming treatment with 

Spirulina platensis is not toxic to seedling growth. 

 

Keywords: Biostimulant, Cucumis sativus; Seed priming, Spirulina platensis; Vigor. 

 

Abbreviations: Bold Basal Medium (BBM), Completely Randomized Design (CRD), Laminar Air Flow Cabinet (LAFC), Maximum 

growth potential (MGP), Mean Germination Time (MGT), Sugar Mill Effluent (SME), Vigor Index (VI). 

 

 

INTRODUCTION 
 

Spirulina has the synonym name Arthrospira. Species of 

Spirulina include Spirulina maxima, Spirulina fosiformis, 

and Spirulina platensis. Spirulina platensis is a type of 

microalgae that is bluish-green in color, unbranched, 

filamentous in shape with a spiral (helix) form, 

measuring 1-12 micrometers, and lives in colonies. 

Spirulina is a microalgae originating from the ocean and 

can thrive in water with toxic metal pollutants. Spirulina 

is not only found in saltwater, freshwater, and brackish 

water but also soil, demonstrating its high adaptability 

(Kamaludin & Holik, 2022). The microalgae Spirulina, 

with its high adaptability, can utilize waste as a growth 

medium, one of which is Sugar Mill Effluent (SME). 

SME contains high levels of organic and inorganic 

compounds, so before being discharged into water 

bodies, it must meet quality standards to determine the 

amount of pollutants in the waste water. The organic 

compounds found in the SME can be utilized by 

microalgae as a growth medium by utilizing nutrients 

such as nitrogen and phosphorus in the wastewater. In 

addition to being known for their high efficiency in 

wastewater treatment, microalgae can absorb nutrients 

and metals from wastewater at various stages of 

treatment (Alling et al., 2023). The cultivation of 

microalgae produces beneficial biomass that can be used 

as seed priming agents. 

Seed priming or seed soaking is an initial treatment 

on seeds as one of the invigorating techniques aimed at 

increasing the germination rate, germination percentage, 

uniformity of growth, and germination speed in seeds 

(Andayani et al., 2023). Priming methods include 

osmopriming, hydropriming, halopriming, and 
biopriming. Biopriming is a priming treatment combined 

with applying biological agents such as microbes that can 

enhance seed germination, produce growth hormones, or 

increase stress resistance (Kurnia et al., 2017). 

https://doi.org/10.14421/biomedich.2025.141.129-141


 

 
 

130 Biology, Medicine, & Natural Product Chemistry 14 (1), 2025: 129-141 

 

 

Biopriming can be performed using the biomass of the 

microalgae Spirulina platensis. The biomass of Spirulina 
platensis comprises roughly 68% protein with few 

essential amino acids. Spirulina platensis is a microalgae 

with a structure consisting of amino acids, 

polysaccharides, phenolics, proteins, carbohydrates, 

vitamins, and phytohormones (auxin, gibberellin, and 

cytokinin). The phytohormone content can enhance 

enzyme activity, cell division, and differentiation, as well 

as plant growth (Seğmen & Ünlü, 2023). Thus, biomass 

containing phytohormones can be used as a seed priming 

agent to enhance germination. The use of microalgae 

biomass for seed priming can be applied to various types 

of crop and horticultural plants, including cucumber. 

Cucumber is one type of horticultural commodity 

classified as a vegetable for public consumption, it is rich 

in nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and beneficial for 

lowering blood pressure (Oktaviana et al., 2016). 

Therefore, cucumbers are excellent plants that serve as 

multi-purpose vegetables starting from food, garnish, 

cosmetics, and therapeutic substances (Adnan et al., 

2024). To achieve good production, appropriate 

cultivation techniques are necessary. Factors that support 

successful cucumber cultivation are the use of high-

quality seeds. Seed quality encompasses physical, 

physiological, genetic, and pathological or health quality. 

a clean, bright, plump appearance and uniform size 

characterize seeds with high physical quality. 

Meanwhile, the high physiological quality of seeds can 

be distinguished from their high viability (germination 

rate) and vigor (growth speed and simultaneous of seed 

growth). The genetic quality of seeds is indicated by high 

genetic uniformity and the absence of other variety 

contaminants. Meanwhile, for pathological quality, the 

seeds are assessed based on the absence of seedborne 

pathogens (Ashari et al., 2024).  
The use of low quality seeds can result in a decrease 

in the quality and productivity of cucumber plants. To 

improve yield production, the use of high-quality seeds is 

necessary. Rosita et al. (2022) highlighted seed quality as 

a key factor in increasing the productivity of apple 

cucumber plants, which currently remains low at around 

27 tons/ha. The decline in seed quality can occur 

naturally through prolonged storage periods, resulting in 

decreased seed viability. The decline in seed quality 

affects the germination and growth of seedlings, leading 

to suboptimal plant development that could potentially 

cause losses for farmers. Thus, applying biostimulants in 

seed priming techniques offers an innovative solution to 

enhance seed germination and early plant growth in 

supporting sustainable agricultural practices (García-

Locascio et al., 2024). Haerani and Nurdin (2021) 

reported that biopriming showed a positive response in 

the parameters of germination rate, vigor index, and 

simultaneous growth. Cucumber plants are responsive 

ability to seed priming treatments, making them an ideal 

subject to test a new potential seed priming agent. This 

idea was confirmed by Badu et al. (2022) who 

successfully demonstrated that cucumber seeds induced 

with seed priming showed a higher germination 

percentage in response to biopriming compared to 

untreated seeds.  

Based on the potential application of Spirulina 

platensis in seed priming, this study aimed to determine 

the effect of the concentration of Spirulina platensis 

microalgae biomass (control, 0%, 30%, 45%, and 60%) 

with soaking durations (1, 2, and 3 hours) on the seeds of 

cucumber variety MKGE 701. This research presents a 

new agricultural innovation by utilizing Spirulina 

platensis as an agent for processing SME for seed 

priming applications. Consequently, our research aims to 

contribute to preserving environmental safety, ensuring 

food security, and promoting a more sustainable 

agriculture in the future. 

 

 

MATERIALS AND METHODS 
 

Place and time of research 

This research was conducted from May to August 2024 

at the Biosciences Integrated Laboratory and the Seed 

Technology Laboratory of Jember State Polytechnic. 

 

Materials and tools  

The equipment used included a centrifuge, Laminar Air 

Flow Cabinet (LAFC), hemocytometer, aerator, 

germination rack, germination box, microscope, and 

autoclave. The materials used consisted of Sugar Mill 

Effluent (SME), aquades, Bold Basal Medium (BBM) 

with modifications (Supplementary), 70% alcohol, 

Spirulina platensis isolate from BBPBAP Jepara, label 

paper, litmus paper, germination paper, seeds of 

cucumber var. MKGE 701 (CV. Nasienie Indonesia, 

Jember - Indonesia) has an expiration date of December 

2025.  

 

Procedures  

This research method used a factorial Completely 

Randomized Design (CRD) with the factor of microalgae 

biomass concentration (v/v) consisting of 5 levels: 

control (untreated seeds), C0 (0%), C1 (30%), C2 (45%), 

and C3 (60%), and the soaking time consisting of 3 

levels: 1, 2, and 3 hours. The total treatment 

combinations are 15 with 4 repetitions, resulting in 60 

experimental units with 30 seeds per unit. The research 

began with the preparation of a growth medium for 

Spirulina platensis, comprising 25% (v/v) Sugar Mill 

Effluent (SME) in a modified Bold Basal Medium 

(BBM) according to UTEX (UTEX, 2019). 

Subsequently, microalgae were grown in plastic bottles 

photobioreactors with illumination of 190 lux and 

aeration for 24 hours at room temperature. The 

microalgae biomass used for seed priming is obtained 

from centrifugation at 8000 rpm at 10°C for 10 minutes. 



 

 
 

 Rahmawati et al. – The Potential of Spirulina platensis Biostimulan as a … 131 
 

 

The seed priming experiments were carried out by 

soaking the seeds with microalgae solutions prepared by 

diluting pellets with distilled water to achieve the desired 

concentration. Subsequently, the seeds were germinated 

on germination paper and placed in a plastic container. 

The container was then stored at a germination shelf at 

28°C, 70% humidity, with an illumination period of 16 

hours followed by 8 hours dark period for 8 days. 

 

Analysis of the microalgae test results was observed 

based on: 

Observation of Cells Photos 

Visual observation of cells utilizes image processing 

software (cellSens) integrated with the Olympus BX43 

compound microscope.  

 

Analysis of seed priming test results is based on ISTA 

observation parameters (Fadhilah, 2020): 

Germination Rate (%) 

Germination observation was conducted on the first 

count (day 4) and final count (day 8), with the parameter 

observed being the number of normal seedlings. Normal 

seedlings demonstrate the ability to grow and develop 

into normal plant seedlings. The germination percentage 

can be calculated using the following formula: 

 
𝐺𝑒𝑟𝑚𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑒 (%)

=
𝛴 𝑁𝑜𝑟𝑚𝑎𝑙 𝐺𝑒𝑟𝑚𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝐹𝑖𝑟𝑠𝑡 𝑐𝑜𝑢𝑛𝑡 +  𝐹𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑙 𝑐𝑜𝑢𝑛𝑡

𝛴𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑔𝑒𝑟𝑚𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝑠𝑒𝑒𝑑
𝑋100% 

 

Mean Germination Time (Days) 

MGT was observed based on the number of seeds 

producing a radicle < 2 mm daily. The measurement of 

MGT shows the average time required for the seeds to 

germinate. MGT can be calculated using the following 

formula: 

 

𝑀𝐺𝑇 (𝐷𝑎𝑦𝑠) =
𝛴(𝑛 𝑥 𝑡)

𝛴𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑔𝑒𝑟𝑚𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝑠𝑒𝑒𝑑
 

 

Vigor Index (%) 

The vigor index was observed by observing normal 

seedlings that grew during the first count. The calculation 

of the vigor index is as follows: 

 

𝑉𝐼 (%) =
𝛴𝑁𝑜𝑟𝑚𝑎𝑙 𝐺𝑒𝑟𝑚𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝐹𝑖𝑟𝑠𝑡 𝑐𝑜𝑢𝑛𝑡

𝛴𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑔𝑒𝑟𝑚𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝑠𝑒𝑒𝑑
𝑋100% 

 

Seed Growth Rate (%) 

Observations were conducted by counting the normal 

seedlings that grew each day until the final count. The 

calculation formula is as follows: 

𝑆𝑒𝑒𝑑 𝐺𝑟𝑜𝑤𝑡ℎ 𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑒 (%) =
% 𝑁𝑜𝑟𝑚𝑎𝑙 𝑆𝑒𝑒𝑑𝑙𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑠

𝑒𝑡𝑚𝑎𝑙
 

 

Simultaneous Growth seeds (%) 

Observation was conducted by counting the normal 

seedlings that grow between the first count and the final 

count day (day 6). Strong normal seedlings are the 

criteria for normal seedlings that have the appearance of 

stronger germination than*the average of other normal 

seedlings. The calculation formula is as follows: 

 
𝑆𝑖𝑚𝑢𝑙𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑒𝑜𝑢𝑠 𝐺𝑟𝑜𝑤𝑡ℎ 𝑠𝑒𝑒𝑑𝑠 (%)

=
𝛴𝑆𝑡𝑟𝑜𝑛𝑔 𝑁𝑜𝑟𝑚𝑎𝑙 𝑆𝑒𝑒𝑑𝑙𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑠

𝛴𝑆𝑒𝑒𝑑 𝑔𝑒𝑟𝑚𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛𝑠
𝑋100% 

 

Maximum Growth Potential (%) 

Observations were made by calculating the percentage of 

seeds that grew into normal and abnormal seedlings at 

the final count. The calculation formula is as follows: 

 
𝑀𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑚𝑢𝑚 𝐺𝑟𝑜𝑤𝑡ℎ 𝑃𝑜𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑖𝑎𝑙 (%)

=
𝛴𝑁𝑜𝑟𝑚𝑎𝑙 + 𝐴𝑏𝑛𝑜𝑟𝑚𝑎𝑙 𝑠𝑒𝑒𝑑𝑙𝑖𝑛𝑔

𝛴𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑔𝑒𝑟𝑚𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝑠𝑒𝑒𝑑
𝑋100% 

 

Shoot Length (cm) 

The measurement of the shoot length was taken from the 

base of the stem to the tip of the bud/growth point of the 

shoot. 

 

Radicle Length (cm) 

The radicle length was measured from the base of the 

root to the tip of the radicle. 

 

Dry Weight of Normal Seedlings (grams) 

This observation was conducted during the final count, to 

determine seed vigor. Normal seedlings have their 

cotyledons removed, then placed in paper envelopes, 

dried using an oven at 60°C for 72 hours, and weighed 

using an analytical balance. The calculation formula is as 

follows:  

 
𝐷𝑟𝑦 𝑊𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑁𝑜𝑟𝑚𝑎𝑙 𝑆𝑒𝑒𝑑𝑙𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑠 (𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑚𝑠)

=
𝑤𝑒𝑡 𝑤𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 − 𝑑𝑟𝑦 𝑤𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 

𝑤𝑒𝑡 𝑤𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡
 

 

Data Analysis 

The research data were analyzed using analysis of 

variance (ANOVA), and if significant data were found, a 

Bonferroni post-hoc test was conducted at a 5% 

significance level. Statistical analysis was performed 

using GraphPad Prism 5.01 software.  

 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 
 

132 Biology, Medicine, & Natural Product Chemistry 14 (1), 2025: 129-141 

 

 

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION 
 

Analysis of Microalgae Growth on SME-based-Bold Basal Medium (SME-BBM) 

 

  
 

Figure 1. Photograph of Spirulina platensis Microalgae Cells Grown on SME-based Bold Basal Medium. 
 

 

 

Microalgae are a biomass source that contains 

important components such as fatty acids, pigments, 

carbohydrates, and proteins, depending on the growth 

medium used, the environment, and the drying method. 

The observation of the microalgae Spirulina platensis 
grown on SME-BBM media was marked by a change in 

the culture color from light green to a more intense 

shade. These findings were supported by the research of 

Widawati et al. (2022), which shows that the growth of 

the microalga Spirulina platensis is marked by a color 

change in the culture from clear green to dark green. This 

color change occurs due to the increase in biomass. The 

growth of microalgae is accompanied by an increase in 

cell size and an increase in the density of microalgal cells 

(Lebeharia et al., 2016). The growth of microalgae is 

divided into several phases, namely the lag phase, 

exponential phase, stationary phase, and death phase. In 

the exponential phase (log phase), their growth is marked 

by an increase in the number and length of microalgae 

cells. The diameter of microalgal cells ranges from 1 to 

12 µm, their body shape resembles threads, and they 

have a spiral shape with thin cell walls. At the end of the 

exponential phase, microalgae produce phycocyanin 

compounds as high antioxidants (Kamaludin & Holik, 

2022). Additionally, the research of Chiaiese et al. (2018) 

found that microalgae biologically produce extracellular 

compounds in the form of phytohormones, amino acids, 

polypeptides, and vitamins. Thus, microalgae can be 

utilized as plant biostimulants to enhance plant growth 

and development. 

 

 

 

 

 

Analysis of Seed Priming Result on Cucumber Seeds  

 

Germination Rate (%) 

 
 

Figure 2. Germination Rate of Cucumber Seeds Under Various Biomass 

Concentrations and Soaking Time. Observation data were taken on the 4th 

day (first count) and the 8th day (final count) of the normal seedlings 
criteria. The data above represent the mean value with SEM error bars from 

the Anova analysis with the Bonferroni Post Hoc test compared to the 

control (untreated group). Values without an asterisk are considered non-
significance. Significant: * (P ≤ 0.05), ** (P ≤ 0.01), *** (P ≤ 0.001).  

 

The germination rate of seeds is a parameter that 

serves as a benchmark for seed viability. Seed viability is 

defined as the ability of a seed to grow into a normal 

seedling (Ashari et al., 2024). The germination rate is an 

important factor that determines plant formation and 

subsequent production. Based on Figure 2, the  results  of 

 

 

 



 

 
 

 Rahmawati et al. – The Potential of Spirulina platensis Biostimulan as a … 133 
 

 

the analysis of variance showed that the treatment with 

concentrations of Spirulina platensis biomass at 30%, 

45%, and 60%, and soaking times of 1, 2, and 3 hours on 

cucumber seeds have a non-significant effect on the 

germination rate parameter. The germination rate in the 

sample without treatment (control) was 97,50%. 

Meanwhile, the water treatment for 1, 2, and 3 hours 

showed germination rate values of 91,67; 95,83; and 

95,00%. On the other hand, the seed priming application 

with 30% Spirulina platensis biomass for 1, 2, and 3 

hours showed germination rate values of 95,83; 96,67; 

and 95,83%. The 45% concentration showed germination 

rate values of 96,67; 98,33; and 99.17%. The 60% 

concentration with soaking times of 1, 2, and 3 hours 

showed germination rate values of 97,50; 98,33; and 

97,50%. Thus, although the application of Spirulina 

platensis biomass showed a non-significant effect, no 

decrease in germination was found in the seed 

germination rate parameter. 

Based on the results analysis, the seed priming 

treatment with 45% concentration of Spirulina platensis 

biomass for 2 and 3 hours of soaking time, and 60% 

concentration for 2 hours of soaking time, showed 

germination rates of 98,33; 99,17; and 98.33%, 

respectively. Although all three treatments showed no 

significant results, these applications provided higher 

germination effects compared to the control (97,50%). 

Furthermore, the application of Spirulina platensis 

biomass did not cause a decrease in germination rate. 

This indicates that treating Spirulina platensis biomass 

concentration with soaking time does not have a harmful 

or toxic effect on seedling growth. The research of 

Ribeiro et al. (2019) reported that the supernatant from 

Chlorella sorokiniana culture showed no significant 

effect on lettuce seed germination and did not cause 

toxicity to the seeds.  

 

Mean Germination Time (MGT) 

 
Figure 3. Mean Germination Time (MGT) of Cucumber Seed Under 

Various Biomass Concentrations and Soaking Time. Observation data were 

taken daily with the condition that the radicle length ≤ 2 mm. The data 
above represent the mean value with SEM error bars from the Anova 

analysis with the Bonferroni Post Hoc test compared to the control 

(untreated group). Values without an asterisk are considered non-
significance. Significant: * (P ≤ 0.05), ** (P ≤ 0.01), *** (P ≤ 0.001). 

Mean Germination Time (MGT) is one of the 

methods used to measure seed vigor through seedling 

growth testing. Mean Germination Time (MGT) is an 

observational parameter that serves as a benchmark to 

indicate the average time required for seeds to develop a 

radicle (Soltani et al., 2015). Mean germination time is 

correlated with seed vigor, where a shorter germination 

time indicates a faster and more uniform radicle growth 

potential. Based on Figure 3., the analysis of variance 

results showed that the treatment with a 30% 

concentration of Spirulina platensis biomass with 

soaking times of 1, 2, and 3 hours significantly effected 

the MGT parameter compared to the control. This is 

evidenced by the emergence time of the radicle without 

treatment (control) on the 2nd day with an MGT value of 

2.10 days. Contrastly, in the 30% treatment for 1, 2, and 

3 hours, the radicle appeared before the 2nd day with 

values of 1,81 and 1,87 days. Although statistically 

significant results were only found in the 30% treatment 

for 1 and 2 hours, the 3 hour treatment also showed a 

faster germination compared to the control with an MGT 

value of 1,87 days. 

The treatment of Spirulina platensis biomass at a 

concentration of 45% for 1, 2, and 3 hours exhibited the 

MGT values of 2,04; 1,85; and 1,79 days, respectively. 

Based on the statistical test results, the 45% treatment 

with a soaking time of 3 hours significantly effected 

MGT. The emergence of the radicle was faster with a 

soaking time of 3 hours compared to the control, 1, and 2 

hours. Although the soaking times of 1 and 2 hours did 

not show significant results, the average MGT required 

to grow the radicle was faster, than the control. 

Considering the obtained findings, there was a trend that 

the longer the soaking time, the faster the seeds develop 

radicles. The current research’s outcomes were in line 

with the research by Shakuntala et al. (2020), which 

found that the longer the soaking time, the more it affects 

the quality of cucumber seeds, namely germination, vigor 

index, germination rate, germination speed, shoot length, 

and root length, which are all higher. 

Subsequently, the treatment with 60% Spirulina 

platensis biomass and soaking times of 1, 2, and 3 hours 

showed a significant effect on the MGT parameter. 

Compared to other treatments, the 60% treatment for 1, 

2, and 3 hours provided the highest average MGT times 

of 1,75; 1,55; and 1.69 days, respectively. This indicates 

that the higher the concentration of Spirulina platensis 

biomass used for seed priming, the more it can accelerate 

the average time required for the radicle to grow. 

Overall, the observation analysis showed that treating 

cucumber seeds with Spirulina platensis biomass 

concentrations of 30%, 45%, and 60% with soaking 

times of 1, 2, and 3 hours significantly affected the MGT 

parameter compared to the control. These findings 

suggest that the varying concentration and soaking time 

of Spirulina platensis can have a significant impact on 

MGT parameters. Our research aligned with the study of 

Akgül (2019) that confirmed the use of Spirulina 



 

 
 

134 Biology, Medicine, & Natural Product Chemistry 14 (1), 2025: 129-141 

 

 

platensis biomass to improve the germination time of 

wheat and barley. 

 

Vigor Index (VI) 

 
Figure 4. Vigor Index of Cucumber Seed Under Various Biomass 

Concentrations and Soaking Time. Observation data were taken on the 4th 
day (first count) to observe normal seedlings. The data above represent the 

mean value with SEM error bars from the Anova analysis with the 

Bonferroni Post Hoc test compared to the control (untreated group). Values 
without an asterisk are considered non-significance. Significant: * (P ≤ 

0.05), ** (P ≤ 0.01), *** (P ≤ 0.001). 

 

Seed vigor index (VI) is the ability of seeds to grow 

into normal plants under sub-optimal environmental 

conditions. The vigor index compares the number of 

normal seedlings at the first count and the number of 

seeds germinated. The vigor index test is a more accurate 

approach to assessing the growth potential of seedlings in 

the field compared to germination power testing (Kartina 

et al., 2021). Figure 4 showed that results of the analysis 

of variance showed that the water treatment and soaking 

durations of 1, 2, and 3 hours did not significantly affect 

the vigor index parameter compared to the control with 

each VI percentage values of 42,50; 35; and 41,67%, 

respectively. Although the water treatment with soaking 

durations of 1 and 3 hours showed no effect on the VI 

parameter, these applications positively correlated with 

the increase in vigor index values compared to the 

control (37,50%). This indicates that priming treatment 

with the hydropriming method can enhance seed 

germination.  

In the treatment of Spirulina platensis biomass at a 

concentration of 30% with soaking times of 1, 2, and 3 

hours, the vigor index percentages were 30; 56,67; and 

63,33%, respectively, compared to the control at 37,50%. 

Although the results were not significant, the application 

of biomass at a concentration of 30% for 2 and 3 hours 

showed higher vigor index percentages compared to the 

control. Based on the obtained results, there is a tendency 

that the longer the soaking time, the higher the 

percentage of vigor index value in the seeds.  

Subsequently, the treatment with 45% concentration 

of Spirulina platensis biomass with soaking times of 1, 2, 

and 3 hours showed VI values of 34,17; 45,83; and 

84,17%, respectively. Based on these VI values, the 45% 

treatment with a soaking time of 3 hours showed a 

significant effect on the increase of the vigor index 

parameter. The treatment of cucumber seeds with 45% 

biomass within 3 hours showed the highest VI value of 

84,17% compared to the other treatments. On the other 

hand, although the 45% treatment for 2 hours showed no 

significant results, the application of the biomass 

demonstrated a higher percentage of VI value compared 

to the control. The elevated vigor index of seeds treated 

with Spirulina platensis biomass indicates a significant 

development potential in the field, particularly under 

sub-optimal environmental circumstances. Based on the 

research by Alam et al. (2023), priming cucumber seeds 

can protect plants from excessive water loss and make 

them more tolerant to drought stress. Basavaraja (2024) 

also suggested that the increase in germination 

percentage and vigor index using Spirulina platensis 

extract positively affects germination rate and seedling 

growth strength. Furthermore, algae extracts can enhance 

the growth of early-stage plants. 

Applying a 60% concentration of Spirulina platensis 

biomass treatment with soaking times of 1, 2, and 3 

hours showed vigor indices (VI) of 51,67; 79,17; and 

80,83%, respectively. Based on these vigor index values, 

the 60% treatment with soaking times of 2 and 3 hours 

significantly effected the vigor index parameter. 

Although the 1 hour soaking at 60% concentration 

showed no significant results, the application of biomass 

at this concentration demonstrated a higher vigor index 

percentage than the control. Based on the obtained 

results, there is a tendency that the longer the soaking 

time, the more it affects the increase in the vigor index 

rate of the seeds. This is evident at a concentration of 

60% with a vigor index of 51,67% at 1 hour and reaching 

80,83% at 3 hours of soaking. 

Overall, our current study suggested a positive 

correlation between Spirulina platensis biomass 

concentration and the rate of vigor index of cucumber 

seeds. Indeed, this is evident at concentrations of 30%, 

45%, and 60%, as shown by the increase in the 

percentage of vigor index values from low to high 

concentrations, ranging from 30% to 80,83%. This 

increase might occur due to the use of increasingly 

concentrated Spirulina platensis biomass, which 

enhances the hormone content in the biomass, thereby 

improving the germination rate, particularly in the vigor 

index parameter. The current work was in line with the 

research by Basavaraja (2024), which demonstrated that 

higher concentrations of Spirulina platensis can enhance 

seed germination and seedling vigor index in various 

plant species, even at a concentration of 100%. 

Seed priming on cucumber seeds induces pre-

germination metabolic conditions to increase germination 

rates and enable seeds to germinate under sub-optimal 

conditions. Cucumber seeds have a responsive ability to 

seed priming treatment. This idea was in line with the 

research by Badu et al. (2022), cucumber seeds induced 

with seed priming showed a higher germination 



 

 
 

 Rahmawati et al. – The Potential of Spirulina platensis Biostimulan as a … 135 
 

 

percentage in response to biopriming due to changes in 

physiological activity, seed metabolism, and enzyme 

stimulation compared to untreated seeds. 

 

Seed Growth Rate (%/etmal)  

 
Figure 5. Seed Growth Rate of Cucumber Seed Under Various Biomass 
Concentrations and Soaking Time. Observation data were taken daily 

according to the criteria for normal seedling. The data above represent the 

mean value with SEM error bars from the Anova analysis with the 
Bonferroni Post Hoc test compared to the control (untreated group). Values 

without an asterisk are considered non-significance. Significant: * (P ≤ 
0.05), ** (P ≤ 0.01), *** (P ≤ 0.001). 

 

The seed growth rate can indicate vigor and growth 

strength (Nurwiati & Budiman, 2023). The growth rate 

can be observed using a shorter germination process 

(Kolo & Tefa, 2016). A high growth rate commonly 

indicates higher seed vigor. This reflects that the higher 

the seed growth rate, the greater the seed's ability to grow 

under suboptimal conditions (Syaban et al., 2023). Based 

on Figure 5, the results of the analysis of variance 

showed that the treatment with Spirulina platensis 

biomass at a concentration of 30% and soaking durations 

of 1, 2, and 3 hours resulted in growth rates of 19,43; 

21,76; and 21,77%, compared to the control at 20,13%. 

Although the results were not significant, the application 

of biomass at a concentration of 30% for 2 and 3 hours 

showed higher growth rates compared to the control. 

In the treatment with a concentration of 45% and 

soaking times of 1, 2, and 3 hours, the growth rate 

percentages were 19,80; 21,34; and 23,99%, compared to 

the control at 20,13%. Applying seed priming with a 

45% concentration for 3 hours showed significant results 

on the growth rate parameter. Although the 2 hour 

soaking at 45% concentration showed no significant 

results, the biomass application demonstrated a higher 

growth rate percentage than the control. Based on the 

results, our observation demonstrated a tendency for the 

longer the soaking time, the more it affects the increase 

in seed growth rate. This is evident at a concentration of 

45% with a growth rate of 19.80% at 1 hour and 23.99% 

at 3 hours. The result made the application of seed 

priming at a concentration of 45% for 3 hours provide 
the best growth rate compared to other treatments (Figure 

5). It can be inferred that Spirulina platensis biomass has 

an effect of accelerating seed germination by promoting 

higher initial growth. The current study was in line with 

Akgül (2019) research, where the supernatant of 

Spirulina platensis has a plant biostimulant effect 

capable of accelerating the germination of wheat and 

barley seeds. 

In the treatment with a concentration of 60% and 

soaking times of 1, 2, and 3 hours, there was an increase 

in the percentage of seed growth rate (21,27; 23,34; and 

23,37%). The 60% concentration treatment for 2 and 3 

hours showed significant results. The 60% concentration 

treatment for 1 hour showed no significant results, but 

the seed priming application had a higher growth rate 

than the control. This indicates that seed priming with 

Spirulina platensis biomass provides a better growth rate 

compared to untreated groups. According to the research 

by Nurwiati and Budiman (2023), a reasonable seed 

growth rate ranges from 25-30%. Although in this study 

the seed growth rate percentage did not reach the ideal 

target, the increased growth rate in seeds treated with 

Spirulina platensis biomass opens up opportunities for 

further development in using Spirulina platensis as 

biopriming. 

The results of the current study suggest that there is a 

tendency for a positive correlation between biomass 

concentration and the rate of increase in growth speed in 

the seeds. The increase in biomass concentration 

correlates with a significant rise in the percentage of seed 

growth rate, from 19,43% to 23,37%. This increase 

occurred due to using a more concentrated biomass of 

Spirulina platensis. Spirulina has a structure of amino 

acids, polysaccharides, phenolics, proteins, 

carbohydrates, vitamins, and phytohormones (auxin, 

gibberellin, and cytokinin). Therefore, the cellular 

content of Spirulina is capable of enhancing plant growth 

(Singh, 2014). 
 
 

Simultaneous Growth of Seeds (%) 

 
Figure 6. Simultaneous Growth of Seed of Cucumber Seed Under Various 

Biomass Concentrations and Soaking Time. Observation data were taken 

once between the first count and final count on the 6th day under the criteria 
for normal seedling. The data above represent the mean value with SEM 

error bars from the Anova analysis with the Bonferroni Post Hoc test 

compared to the control (untreated group). Values without an asterisk are 
considered non-significance. Significant: * (P ≤ 0.05), ** (P ≤ 0.01), *** 

(P ≤ 0.001). 



 

 
 

136 Biology, Medicine, & Natural Product Chemistry 14 (1), 2025: 129-141 

 

 

Simultaneous seed growth represents the ability of 

seeds to form normal seedlings. Simultaneous growth of 

seed is one of the tests of growth vigor that can be seen 

from the ability of seeds to grow uniformly. The greater 

the seed's growth strength, the more uniformly the seeds 

will be germinating (Septirosya et al., 2024). The 

simultaneous growth of seeds was calculated based on 

the number of normal seedlings growing between the 

first and final count. The seedlings with complete and 

healthy root, shoot, and normal leaves and growth were 

considered normal. The simultaneous growth of seed 

indicates the vigor of a seed lot. Low vigor and viability 

cause low seedling uniformity (Andayani et al., 2023). 

Based on Figure 6, the analysis of variance showed that 

the water treatment and soaking time of 1, 2, and 3 hours 

resulted in simultaneous growth of seed percentages of 

70; 90,83; and 90%, while the control group had a 

percentage of 85%. Although the water application with 

soaking time of 2 and 3 hours showed no significant 

results, these applications demonstrated higher 

simultaneous growth of seed percentages compared to 

the control. This indicates that priming treatment with the 

hydropriming method can enhance germination, 

particularly in the uniformity of seedling growth. Water 

plays a crucial role in seed germination, as it is necessary 

to provide dissolved oxygen for the embryo, soften the 

seed coat, and increase seed permeability. This finding 

was in line with the research by Shakuntala et al. (2020) 

that soaking cucumber seeds using the hydropriming 

method positively effects seed germination, germination 

speed, and germination rate. 

In the treatment of Spirulina platensis biomass at a 

concentration of 30% with soaking times of 1, 2, and 3 

hours, the percentage values of simultaneous growth of 

seed were 81,67; 94,17; and 91,67%, respectively, with a 

control value of 85%. Based on the statistical test results, 

Spirulina platensis biomass at a concentration of 30% for 

2 hours significantly effected the uniformity of seed 

growth. Although the 30% concentration for 3 hours had 

a non-significant effect, this application showed a higher 

simultaneous seed value growth than the control. This 

indicated that priming conducted with Spirulina platensis 

biomass can enhance the uniformity of seed germination. 

Haerani and Nurdin (2021) further asserted that 

biopriming exhibited a positive response in the 

parameters of germination power, vigor index, and 

growth synchrony. 

The treatment of Spirulina platensis biomass at a 

concentration of 45% with soaking times of 1, 2, and 3 

hours exhibited a simultaneous simultaneous growth of 

seed percentage values of 86,67; 95,83; and 99,17%, 

respectively, compared to the control at 85%. Based on 

the statistical test results, the treatment of 45% biomass 

with soaking times of 2 and 3 hours showed significant 

results. Despite being statistically insignificant at 1 hour, 

the 45% biomass application still demonstrated better 

simultaneous growth than the control. Furthermore, seed 

priming at a concentration of 45% for 3 hours provided 

the best simultaneous growth of seed value compared to 

other treatments. This indicated that Spirulina platensis 

biomass effects improving seed uniformity by promoting 

the growth of normal seedlings. The current result was in 

line with the research by Xie et al. (2022) microalgae 

have the potential as plant biostimulants, as evidenced by 

the positive response of microalgae treatment on the 

parameters of radicle emergence, seed vigor, and seed 

germination. Additionally, there was a tendency for 

longer soaking times to show higher values of uniformity 

in growth. This was proven by applying Spirulina 

platensis biomass at a concentration of 45% with soaking 

times of 1 – 3 hours, resulting in a simultaneous growth 

of seed percentage from 86 to 99,17%. 

The application of Spirulina platensis biomass at a 

concentration of 60% with soaking times of 1, 2, and 3 

hours showed simultaneous growth of seed percentages 

of 89,17; 95,83; and 96,67%, respectively, compared to a 

control of 85%. Based on these statistical test results, the 

60% concentration for 2 and 3 hours displayed a 

significant effect on the simultaneous growth of the seed 

parameter. Although the 60% concentration for 1 hour 

showed no significant results, it produced better seed 

germination simultaneity than the control. In addition, 

there was a tendency that the higher the concentration of 

biomass used, the higher the seed uniformity value for 

growing into normal seedlings. This is because the 

compounds found in the microalgae extract can trigger 

the simultaneous growth of cucumber seeds. The current 

study was in line with Susanti's (2014) reports that seeds 

treated with osmoconditioning using high-concentration 

solutions can reactivate growth enzymes within the 

seeds, thereby breaking seed dormancy. In addition, there 

was a tendency that longer soaking time in seeds can 

influence plant growth, especially in the parameter of 

uniformity of growth, as evidenced by the simultaneous 

growth of seeds value from the lowest concentration of 

30% at 81,67% and the 60% concentration reaching 

96,67%. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 
 

 Rahmawati et al. – The Potential of Spirulina platensis Biostimulan as a … 137 
 

 

Maximum Growth Potential (MGP)  

 
Figure 7. Maximum Growth Potential of Cucumber Seed Under Various 

Biomass Concentrations and Soaking Time. Observation data were taken 

on day 8 (final count) stipulating the percentage of normal and abnormal 
sprouts. The data above represent the mean value with SEM error bars 

from the Anova analysis with the Bonferroni Post Hoc test compared to the 

control (untreated group). Values without an asterisk are considered non-
significance. Significant: * (P ≤ 0.05), ** (P ≤ 0.01), *** (P ≤ 0.001). 

 

Maximum growth potential (MGP) is the ability of 

seeds to grow into normal or abnormal seedlings under 

optimal conditions. Maximum growth potential describes 

seed viability, closely related to the seed’s ability to 

germinate and grow at its optimal capacity. Maximum 

growth potential is influenced by environmental factors 

such as light, temperature, humidity, and internal factors. 

A high number of maximum growth potential results 

from high seed viability conditions (Harsono et al., 

2021). Based on Figure 7, the results of the analysis of 

variance showed that the treatment with 30%, 45%, and 

60% concentrations of Spirulina platensis biomass and 

soaking times of 1, 2, and 3 hours on cucumber seeds had 

a non-significant effect on the MGP parameter compared 

with the untreated seeds (control) with 100% MGP value. 

The water treatment for 1, 2, and 3 hours showed MGP 

values of 99,17; 99,17; and 98,33%. Meanwhile, the seed 

priming application with a 30% concentration of 

Spirulina platensis biomass for 1, 2, and 3 hours showed 

MGP values of 100%; 99,17; and 100%. The 45% 

concentration for 1, 2, and 3 hours showed maximum 

growth potential values of 99,17; 100; and 100%. 

Additionally, the 60% concentration with soaking times 

of 1, 2, and 3 hours showed maximum growth potential 

values of 100; 98,33; and 98,33%. Although it showed 

no significant effect, there was no decrease in 

germination in the maximum growth potential parameter. 

This indicated that the treatment of Spirulina platensis 

for cucumber seed priming was not toxic and did not 

have an adverse effect on seedling growth, as evidenced 

by the absence of a decrease in the percentage of 

maximum growth potential in each treatment. Seeds are 

very sensitive or responsive to environmental changes, 

including the presence of toxic substances. Therefore, 

seeds have great potential to be used as bioindicators of 

toxicity (Luo et al., 2018). The response triggered by the 

seeds is often manifested by a decrease in germination 

percentage and abnormalities in the seedlings. Our 

current study was in line with the research by Ribeiro et 

al. (2019) the supernatant from the culture of Chlorella 
sorokiniana showed no significant difference in seed 

germination and did not cause toxicity in lettuce seeds.  

 

Shoot Length (cm) 

 
Figure 8. Shoot Length of Cucumber Seed Under Various Biomass 
Concentrations and Soaking Time. Observation data were taken on day 8 

(final count) measuring from the base of the stem to the tip of the plumule 

bud/growth point in normal seedlings. The data above represent the mean 
value with SEM error bars from the Anova analysis with the Bonferroni 

Post Hoc test compared to the control (untreated group). Values without an 
asterisk are considered non-significance. Significant: * (P ≤ 0.05), ** (P ≤ 

0.01), *** (P ≤ 0.001). 

 

The shoot is the precursor to the stem that grows 

during the germination phase. Shoot grows and emerges 

above the ground and is located above the cotyledon. The 

shoot becomes part of the plant that will develop 

upwards to form buds and leaves (Parnidi et al., 2022). 

Based on Figure 8, the results of the analysis of variance 

generally showed that the treatment with Spirulina 

platensis biomass concentrations of 30%, 45%, and 60% 

and soaking times of 1, 2, and 3 hours on cucumber seeds 

significantly affected the shoot length parameter 

compared to the control. At a concentration of 30%, the 

application of biomass showed a significant increase at 

all soaking durations of 1, 2, and 3 hours with the shoot 

lengths of 10,18; 9,43; and 10.14 cm, respectively. 

Subsequently, at a concentration of 45%, the application 

of biomass also showed significance at all soaking 

durations of 1, 2, and 3 hours, with shoot lengths of 9,48; 

9,77; and 9,46 cm, respectively. At a concentration of 

60% and soaking durations of 1, 2, and 3 hours, the 

application of biomass also showed a significant effect 

on the shoot length parameter, evidenced by shoot 

lengths of 10,36; 10,37; and 10,24 cm, respectively. 

Meanwhile, the control only produced a shoot length of 

8,43 cm. Based on these results, there was a tendency for 

a constant increase in shoot length at a concentration of 

60% of Spirulina platensis biomass over 1, 2, and 3 

hours of soaking. This concentration resulted in a more 

extended shoot compared to the other treatments. This 

indicated that priming of cucumber seeds using Spirulina 
platensis biomass could potentially increase radicle 



 

 
 

138 Biology, Medicine, & Natural Product Chemistry 14 (1), 2025: 129-141 

 

 

length. This increase occurred presumably because 

Spirulina platensis contains hormones that can stimulate 

seed germination. Among the phytohormones processed 

by Spirulina platensis are auxin, gibberellin, and 

cytokinin. This is in line with the study of Andianingsih 

et al. (2021) who elaborated that auxin plays a role in 

stimulating cell elongation processes and gibberellin 

affects embryo development and germination. The results 

of this observation are supported by the study of Seğmen 

and Ünlü (2023), which reported that the phytohormone 

content of Spirulina can enhance cell division and 

differentiation, enzyme activity, leaf growth, and 

photosynthetic capacity. 

 

Radicle Length (cm) 

 
Figure 9. Radicle Length of Cucumber Seed Under Various Biomass 

Concentrations and Soaking Time. Observation data were taken on day 8 
(final count) measuring the root base and the root tip of normal seedlings. 

The data above represent the mean value with SEM error bars from the 

Anova analysis with the Bonferroni Post Hoc test compared to the control 
(untreated group). Values without an asterisk are considered non-

significance. Significant: * (P ≤ 0.05), ** (P ≤ 0.01), *** (P ≤ 0.001). 

 

The radicle is a part of the seed embryo that emerges 

through the lower part of the microphyll end and will 

develop into the plant's root. Radicle is the primary root 

that appears first and will continue to develop to 

stimulate a complete root system (Dharma et al., 2015). 

Radicles will develop into the plant's root, which 

functions to supply nutrients and transport mineral salts 

from the soil to all parts of the plant. Based on Figure 9, 

the treatment with a 30% concentration and soaking 

times of 1, 2, and 3 hours exhibited radicle lengths of 

11,57; 11,08; and 13,60 cm, respectively, while a control 

length displayed radicle length of 11,67 cm. Based on the 

statistical test results, the 30% treatment with a soaking 

time of 3 hours significantly effected radicle length 

compared to the control. Although at the 30% 

concentration for 1 and 2 hours, there was a slightly 

observable decrease, the radicle length produced at that 

concentration did not show a significant decrease. At a 

concentration of 45% with soaking times of 1, 2, and 3 

hours, the radicle lengths were 11,45; 11,58; and 12,64 

cm, respectively. Although the seed priming application 

at a concentration of 45% for 3 hours showed no 

significant effect, there was a 0,95% increase in radicle 

length compared to the control. Subsequently, at a 

concentration level of 60% and soaking durations of 1, 2, 

and 3 hours, the radicle lengths were 11,46; 13,11; and 

11,68 cm, respectively. Although the 60% concentration 

for 2 and 3 hours indicated no significant effect, this 

application showed increased radicle length compared to 

the control. This indicated an influence on the increase in 

radicle length primed using Spirulina platensis biomass. 

Spirulina biomass contains phytohormonal compounds 

that can enhance plant growth, including auxin. In line 

with the research by Arahou et al. (2023), it is inferred 

that microalgae have active molecules in the form of 

amino acids, polysaccharides, and phytohormones that 

can promote plant growth and increase tolerance to biotic 

and abiotic stress. 

In the water treatment and soaking durations of 1, 2, 

and 3 hours, the radicle lengths were 11,32; 13,34; and 

10,09 cm, respectively, while the control was 11,67 cm. 

Based on the statistical test results, the water treatment 

with a soaking duration of 2 hours showed a significant 

effect on radicle length compared to the control. This 

indicated that the application increases the radicle length 

in cucumber seeds. Although the application of seed 

priming with water treatment for 1 hour experienced a 

slight decrease, the radicle length produced at that 

concentration did not significantly decrease compared to 

the control. Priming is performed to hydrate the seeds 

before germination, aiming to balance the water potential 

to activate metabolic activities within the seeds. 

According to Rocha et al. (2019), seed priming can 

maximize germination, resulting in increased 

germination index, improved seedling strength, and 

enhanced shoot and radicle length. 

Based on the results of the analysis, the seed priming 

treatment using Spirulina platensis biomass at 

concentrations of 30% and 45% for a soaking duration of 

3 hours and 60% concentration for 2 hours, showed an 

increase in radicle length of 13,60; 12,63; and 13,11 cm. 

These applications indicated a higher increase in radicle 

length compared to the control. Additionally, 30% 

Spirulina platensis biomass seed priming for 3 hours 

showed the most effective treatment for increasing 

radicle length compared to other treatments.  

 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



 

 
 

 Rahmawati et al. – The Potential of Spirulina platensis Biostimulan as a … 139 
 

 

Dry Weight of Normal Seedlings  

 
 

Figure 10. Dry Weight of Normal Cucumber Seedlings Under Various 
Biomass Concentrations and Soaking Time. Observation data were taken 

on day 8 (final count) of the dry weight criteria for normal seedlings. The 

data above represent the mean value with SEM error bars from the Anova 
analysis with the Bonferroni Post Hoc test compared to the control 

(untreated group). Values without an asterisk are considered non-

significance. Significant: * (P ≤ 0.05), ** (P ≤ 0.01), *** (P ≤ 0.001). 

 

The dry weight of normal seedlings is one of the 

benchmarks used in seed viability testing. Dry weight of 

normal seedlings reflects an important growth factor that 

determines crop yield. Dry weight of normal seedlings 

showed viability that reflects the amount of food reserves 

available in the seeds (Rolin et al., 2024). The dry weight 

of normal seedlings is often referred to as the dry weight 

of seedling cotyledons, which indicates the assimilate 

content and food reserves. Based on Figure 10, the 

analysis of variance results showed that the treatment 

with Spirulina platensis biomass at concentrations of 

30%, 45%, and 60% and soaking times of 1, 2, and 3 

hours on cucumber seeds has no significant effect on the 

dry weight of normal seedlings parameter. Meanwhile, 

the control (untreated seeds) showed the dry weight of 

normal seedlings value of 0,97 grams. The water 

treatment for 1, 2, and 3 hours showed dry weight of 

normal seedlings values of 0,96; 0,97; and 0,96 grams, 

respectively. Meanwhile, the seed priming application 

with 30% Spirulina platensis biomass for 1, 2, and 3 

hours showed dry weight of normal seedlings values of 

0,96; 0,97; and 0,98 grams, respectively. The 45% 

concentration for 1, 2, and 3 hours showed dry weight of 

normal seedlings values of 0,96; 0,98; and 0,95 grams, 

respectively. Moreover, the 60% concentration with 

soaking times of 1, 2, and 3 hours showed dry weight of 

normal seedlings values of 0,96; 0,97; and 0,96 grams, 

respectively. Although it showed no significant effect, 

based on these values, no significant decrease in the dry 

weight of normal seedlings was found between the 

different treatments. According to the study by 

Ratnaningtyas et al. (2019), the organ matrix priming 

treatment with fermented bean seedlings on chili seeds 

exhibited no significant difference in the dry weight of 

normal seedlings, indicating that the seedlings were 

capable of translocating food reserves. In addition, the 

priming treatment with Spirulina platensis indicated no 

harmful or toxic effects were observed on seedling 

growth, as evidenced by the absence of a decrease in the 

dry weight of normal seedlings in each treatment.  

 

 

CONCLUSIONS 
 

Spirulina platensis can thrive in SME-based media, 

which was characterized by an increase in cell size and a 

color change in the cell culture from light to dark green, 

indicating an increase in microalgal cell density. The 

treatment of Spirulina platensis biomass at a 

concentration of 45% for 1 and 3 hours increased the 

vigor index, seed growth rate, and simultaneous growth 

rate of cucumber seedlings. In the treatment with a 60% 

concentration and soaking times of 1, 2, and 3 hours, 

there was an increase in the parameters of mean 

germination time, vigor index, seed growth rate, and 

shoot length. Although the 45% and 60% treatments 

showed no significant differences in the parameters of 

germination rate, maximum growth potential, and dry 

weight of normal seedlings, these applications indicated 

no decrease in seed germination. This indicates that seed 

priming treatment with Spirulina platensis is not toxic to 

seedling growth, as evidenced by the absence of a 

decrease in germination rate, maximum growth potential, 

and normal dry weight of seedlings in each treatment. 

Additionally, this research explored the potential of 

microalgae grown on SME-based media and its 

application to enhance plant growth. The significant 

improvement in seed growth parameters achieved 

through Spirulina platensis-based priming demonstrates 

its prospect to enhance crop yield, contribute to global 

food security, and promote sustainable agricultural 

practices.  

 

 

Acknowledgments: The author expresses the most 

profound gratitude to the supervising lecturer and 

colleagues who have guided, directed and assisted in the 

implementation of this research until its completion.  

 

Authors’ Contributions: The first author designed the 

research and prepared the manuscript, the second and 

third authors conducted the experiments, the fourth and 

fifth authors interpreted the data, and the last author, as 

an principal investigator, supervised, directed and guided 

the experiments. 

 

Competing Interests: The author has no conflicts of 

interest. 

 

Funding: The author would like to express their heartfelt 

gratitude to the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, 

and Technology (Kemendikbutristek) and Politeknik 

Negeri Jember for their assistance with facilities and 



 

 
 

140 Biology, Medicine, & Natural Product Chemistry 14 (1), 2025: 129-141 

 

 

Student Research Project Funding 2024 entitled “CAPS 

(Carbon Capture for Seed Priming Using Spirulina): The 

Potential of Spirulina platensis Biostimulant as a Sugar 

Mill Effluent Seed Priming Agent.”  

 

 

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