Impact of mycorrhizal inoculants on soil microbiome during sunflower (Helianthus L.) cultivation

Abstract

The article examines the results of a study on the impact of the biological preparation Mikovital, based on mycorrhizal fungi, on sunflower cultivation. The study revealed a positive effect of the preparation on the growth, development, and productivity of the plants. The application of Mikovital led to a statistically significant increase in sunflower yield from 2.31 t/ha (control) to 2.90 t/ha. Additionally, improvements were observed in the quality parameters of the seeds, including 1000-seed weight and oil content. The preparation influenced the increase in the area of active roots, which facilitated better water and nutrient absorption. During the budding phase, the area of active roots increased by 5.2 cm2, and during the flowering phase, it increased by 4.9 cm2. The increase in leaf area during the appearance of the 2nd trifoliate leaf by 0.5 dm2, in the budding phase by 1.5 dm2, and in the flowering phase by 2.1 dm2 contributed to improved photosynthetic activity and overall plant productivity. Moreover, the study noted an increase in the number of beneficial microorganisms in the soil, such as ammonifying bacteria and actinomycetes, as well as the emergence of new species of micromycetes, including Trichoderma and Glomus. This positively affected biodiversity, improved nutrient synthesis, and provided better nutrient supply to the plants. The enhanced microbial activity in the soil contributed to the overall health and resilience of the sunflower plants, ensuring their stability under stress conditions. Overall, the application of Mikovital proved to be effective in enhancing sunflower growth, development, and yield. It not only optimized the soil microbiome but also improved plant stability under adverse conditions, making it a valuable tool in sustainable agriculture. The study underscores the potential of biological preparations in reducing dependency on chemical inputs while maintaining high productivity and quality in sunflower cultivation.