Abstract
The effects of single inoculation and co-inoculation of two plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) (Pseudomonas fluorescens, Azospirillum brasilense) on growth and essential oil (EO) composition and phenolic content were evaluated in marigold (Tagetes minuta). Plant growth parameters (shoot fresh weight, root dry weight, leaf number, node number) were measured. EO yield increased 70% in P. fluorescens-inoculated and co-inoculated plants in comparison with control (non-inoculated) plants, without altering EO composition. The biosynthesis of the major EO components was increased in the inoculated plants. Shoot fresh weight and EO yield were significantly higher in P. fluorescens-inoculated and in co-inoculated plants than in control plants. The total phenolic content was 2-fold higher in singly-inoculated or co-inoculated treatments than in controls. In view of the economic importance of monoterpenes and phenolic compounds for a variety of applications in the food and cosmetic industries, P. fluorescens and other PGPR have clear potential for improving the productivity of cultivated aromatic plants. Better understanding of the processes that affect the accumulation of secondary metabolites will lead to increased yields of these commercially valuable natural products.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
