The Effect of DMSO on Plant Growth

Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is a solvent frequently used in plant studies. The effects of DMSO upon plant growth appear to relate directly to concentrations of the substance and interactions with other substances present.

Concentrations

• Research by Schmitz and Skoog at the University of Wisconsin in 1969 indicated that DMSO showed no apparent effect upon growth of tobacco plants in concentrations between 0.2 percent and 0.4 percent. In concentrations of 0.8 percent and above, yield of the plants were reduced by 50 percent or more. The plants did not show any damage from the DMSO.

Bacterial Growth

• The introduction of solvents including DMSO in research by Robison, Smid and Wolyn for the National Research Council Canada in 2006, indicated elevated levels of bacteria on plant roots in hydroponic environment. While DMSO showed lower levels of bacteria than ethanol or methanol, plant leaves were smaller and showed dead cells after eight days with concentrations between 0.05 percent and 0.001 percent of DMSO.

Water Molecules

• Research by H. Harry Szmant of the University of Detroit focused on the ability of DMSO to affect water present in cells. DMSO readily bonds with hydrogen. This is an area that will require further research to understand DMSO's effects upon biological systems.