Synergistic Lanthanum-Cysteine Chelate and Corn Steep Liquor Mitigate Cadmium Toxicity in Chinese Cabbage via Physiological–Microbial Coordination

TL;DR

A new method using lanthanum-cysteine and corn steep liquor helps reduce cadmium toxicity in Chinese cabbage by improving plant health and soil conditions.

Contribution

A synergistic dual-component strategy for cadmium mitigation in crops through physiological and microbial coordination.

Findings

CLa reduced Cd translocation and improved photosynthesis and root viability.

CSL boosted chlorophyll and beneficial microbes in the rhizosphere.

Combined CLCS treatment enhanced biomass, nutrient uptake, and stress tolerance while reducing Cd accumulation.

Abstract

Cadmium (Cd) contamination of soil threatens agricultural productivity and food safety. In this study, a dual-component remediation strategy combining lanthanum-cysteine chelate (CLa) and corn steep liquor (CSL) was developed to alleviate Cd toxicity in Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa subsp. pekinensis). CLa enhanced photosynthetic efficiency, antioxidant enzyme activity, and root viability, while reducing Cd translocation to shoots. In contrast, CSL acted primarily through organic nutrient supplementation, stimulating chlorophyll synthesis and promoting the growth of beneficial rhizosphere microbes. Notably, the combined treatment (CLCS) exhibited a synergistic effect, significantly enhancing biomass production, nutrient uptake, photosynthetic performance, and oxidative stress tolerance, while reducing Cd accumulation in plant tissues. Furthermore, CLCS optimized the soil microenvironment and microbiota composition, reinforcing plant resilience under Cd stress. This study offers a promising and cost-effective approach for mitigation of heavy metal stress and crop productivity improvement by coordinated plant–microbe–soil interactions.

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