Effect of nano-formulated indigenous Rhizobium sp. on nodulation, growth, and yield of Edamame soybean

Abstract

The isolates of indigenous Rhizobium sp. are compatible with Edamame soybean, but the inoculum formulation using a carrier material from ordinary peat has not been optimal. The study was aimed to evaluate the effects of the nano-formulation of indigenous Rhizobium sp. inoculum on the growth and yield of Edamame soybean. The research was arranged in a randomized complete block design using a single factor treatment, namely the inoculum formulae, consisting of Nano Peat 95% + Nano Biochar 5%, Nano Peat 95% + Nano Bone 5%, Nano Peat 90% + Nano Biochar 5% + Nano Bone 5%, and Peat 50% + Charcoal 49% + Lime 1% (control). Each treatment consisted of three replications, producing 12 experimental units. Observations were made on the population dynamics of indigenous Rhizobium sp., nodulation, growth, and yield of Edamame soybean. The inoculation of nano-formulated indigenous Rhizobium sp. was significantly effective in nodulation, accelerating flowering period, and increasing the yield. The treatment of Nano Peat 90% + Nano Biochar 5% + Nano Bone 5% produced the highest yield (10.28 tons/ha), indicating an increase of 2.3% compared to the control