Effect of biostimulant and biofertilizers on soil bio-chemical properties and plant growth of apple (Malus x domestica Borkh.) nursery

Abstract

Aim: To assess the effect of biostimulant and biofertilizers on soil properties and plant growth of apple nursery under eco-friendly production system. Methodology: The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design comprising 18 treatments of biostimulant, biofertilizers and their combinations. Each treatment was replicated thrice. Nursery beds of apple seedling rootstocks were prepared and Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, PGPR (Bacillus sp.) were applied by soil drenching method and commercial formulations of granular bio-stimulant containing humic acid (39%) + kelp extract (25%) + amino acids (9.0%) + ascorbic acid + thiamine + inositol + tocopherol (27%) were applied in two split doses by broadcasting in root zone. The effects of these various formulations were investigated during the course of studies. Results: Linear growth, radial growth of scion (6.66 mm), number of leaves per plant, leaf area, success rate, saleable plants, total root length, fresh weight of shoots, dry weight of shoots, fresh weight of roots, dry weight of roots and total plant biomass of apple nursery plants were significantly increased with the combined application of biostimulant (200 g m-2 nursery bed) + AM fungi (20 g per plant) + PGPR (50 ml per plant). This treatment also significantly improved the status of available soil N, P, K and population of fungi, bacteria as well as actinomycetes in the rhizosphere. Interpretation: Application of biostimulant (200 g m-2 nursery bed) + AM fungi (20 g per plant) + PGPR (50 ml per plant) proved to be the most effective combination of eco-friendly inputs for the production of good quality apple nursery plants with well developed shoot and root system and improved the soil bio-chemical properties.