Inoculation effects on growth, nodulation, cytosol components and nitrogen fixation of narrowleaf and hairy vetch

Abstract

Abstract Underutilized indigenous legumes have potential for enhanced nitrogen fixation when properly managed. Many species have unusual tolerance and adaptive capabilities to survive when intensively grazed, and to continue vigorous regrowth on sites with very low soil productivity under extremes of climatic stress. The objective of these studies was to determine effects of specific inoculation compared to intrinsic soil Rhizobium on growth, nodulation, nitrogenase (C2H2 red.) and associated nodule components of narrowleaf vetch (Vicia angustifolia L.). Responses were determined for soil fertility treatments and evaluated with comparative responses of hairy vetch (Vicia villosa, Roth). Field evaluations for availability of fixed nitrogen by these vetch species was determined as fertilizer nitrogen equivalence (NH4NO3) with Maton rye (Secale cereale L.). Top growth of both vetch species at anthesis significantly increased with inoculation. Narrowleaf growth was approximately one third or less of hairy vet...