Assessing the impact of Djdi on the growth, nutrient uptake, and secondary metabolite production in Eruca vesicaria (L.) Cav.

Abstract Background This pioneering research aims to assess Djdi Ocher (Khuzam Shale), a naturally occurring Pharaonic fertilizer from Southern Egypt, as a unique sustainable soil amendment. The study focuses on blending Djdi with sandy clay soil (CS) in various ratios to evaluate its effects on the growth and development of Eruca vesicaria. Results In a pot experiment, E. vesicaria seeds were germinated in three different Djdi-to-soil ratios: (1:1; Djdi: CS1), (1:2; Djdi: CS2), and (1:3; Djdi: