Microbic and Algae biofertilizers in Aloe barbadensis Miller

Abstract

The aim of this work was to develop an organic and sustainable cultivation protocol, based on the use of microbial biofertilizers (Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria, Trichoderma spp., arbuscular mycorrhizae and biostimulant algae) able to improve the growth and quality of Aloe barbadensis Miller plants. The experimental trial at CREA-OF in Pescia showed a significant improvement in the agronomic parameters analysed on Aloe barbadensis Miller plants treated with microbial and algae-based biofertilizers. In particular, there was a significant improvement in the number of leaves per plant, new shoots, vegetative fresh weight, root weight and gel weight. On the leaves in the treated theses, there was a significant increase in leaf length and width and an improvement in gel quality (optical density). The trial also showed a significant improvement in soluble solids, sugars and fibre content in the theses inoculated with microbial products and a significant increase in fructose, glucose, proline and aloin. These improvements in plant growth following the use of microbial biofertilizers and algae have also been found in previous trials in other vegetables and ornamental crops, but few trials have been carried out with Aloe. The application of symbiotic microorganisms in agricultural operations can therefore ensure higher production standards, with a possible improvement in the agronomic quality of the plants, while also reducing the use of water and fertilizers. This experiment may be of particular interest to farms that want to focus on the production of ornamental and fruit cacti and succulents under organic farming methods.