Enhanced Nutrient Availability Research Articles

Liming potential and characteristics of biochar produced from woody and non-woody biomass at different pyrolysis temperatures

Large amount of wastes are burnt or left to decompose on site or at landfills where they cause air pollution and nutrient leaching to groundwater. Waste management strategies that return these food wastes to agricultural soils recover the carbon and nutrients that would otherwise have been lost, enrich soils and improve crop productivity. The incorporation of liming materials can neutralize the protons released, hence reducing soil acidity and its adverse impacts to the soil environment, food security, and human health. Biochar derived from organic residues is becoming a source of carbon input to soil and provides multifunctional values. Biochar can be alkaline in nature, with the level of alkalinity dependent upon the feedstock and processing conditions. This study conducted a characterization of biochar derived from the pyrolysis process of eggplant and Acacia nilotica bark at temperatures of 300 °C and 600 °C. An analysis was conducted on the biochar kinds to determine their pH, phosphorus (P), as well as other elemental composition. The proximate analysis was conducted by the ASTM standard 1762-84, while the surface morphological features were measured using a scanning electron microscope. The biochar derived from Acacia nilotica bark exhibited a greater yield and higher level of fixed carbon while possessing a lower content of ash and volatile components compared to biochar derived from eggplant. The eggplant biochar exhibits a higher liming ability at 600 °C compared to the acacia nilotica bark-derived biochar. The calcium carbonate equivalent, pH, potassium (K), and phosphorus (P) levels in eggplant biochars increased as the pyrolysis temperature increased. The results suggest that biochar derived from eggplant could be a beneficial resource for storing carbon in the soil, as well as for addressing soil acidity and enhancing nutrients availability, particularly potassium and phosphorus in acidic soils.

Utilization of graphene as an alternative sustainable amendment in improving soil health through accelerated decomposition of oil palm mulch and enhanced nutrient availability

Graphene has unique properties for improving soil health properties such as nutrient availability, soil physical and chemical properties, and controlled release of essential elements. This research aimed at determining the impact of graphene amendment on the decomposition of oil palm frond mulching and on soil health status. The study was conducted using a factorial experiment in completely randomized design with two main factors: (i) covering conditions: cover with plastic sheet and no cover, and (ii) graphene application that included T1 (control): oil palm frond mulching (OFM), T2: OFM + graphene (G), T3: OFM + G + chemical fertilizer, and T4: OFM + G + goat manure. The results indicated that there were significant differences among graphene applications, between cover conditions, and in interactions between graphene applications and cover conditions for all soil characteristics in the most observed month. In the third month of soil analysis, the treatment of graphene applications showed higher electrical conductivity (T2: 151.7 ± 6.8 µS cm−1), available phosphorus (T3: 9.0 ± 6.7 mg kg−1), exchangeable potassium (T2: 67.1 ± 24.9 mg kg−1), and exchangeable calcium (T3: 95.4 ± 5.1 mg kg−1), compared to control. The cover condition showed suitable soil pH (5.0 ± 0.2), higher soil available phosphorus (7.1 ± 5.0 mg kg−1), and exchangeable calcium (599.1 ± 235.2 mg kg−1), but the no-cover condition presented higher soil organic matter (0.7% ± 0.2%), exchangeable potassium (60.3 ± 19.1 mg kg−1), and exchangeable magnesium (96.7 ± 11.4 mg kg−1). Correlation results indicated that most soil characteristics were correlated under graphene applications. Principal component analysis showed that the treatments of graphene application dominated most soil characteristics. The results suggest that graphene has potential for improving soil health properties and can be applied as an alternative sustainable amendment to accelerate the decomposition of oil palm frond mulch and enhance nutrient availability for oil palm. In addition, the authors suggest that further investigations should consider more soil health parameters in long-term field studies for a better understanding and to provide recommendations to farmers.

Iron nanoparticles in combination with other conventional Fe sources remediate mercury toxicity-affected plants and soils by nutrient accumulation in bamboo species

The issue of mercury (Hg) toxicity has recently been identified as a significant environmental concern, with the potential to impede plant growth in forested and agricultural areas. Conversely, recent reports have indicated that Fe, may play a role in alleviating HM toxicity in plants. Therefore, this study's objective is to examine the potential of iron nanoparticles (Fe NPs) and various sources of Fe, particularly iron sulfate (Fe SO4 or Fe S) and iron-ethylene diamine tetra acetic acid (Fe - EDTA or Fe C), either individually or in combination, to mitigate the toxic effects of Hg on Pleioblastus pygmaeus. Involved mechanisms in the reduction of Hg toxicity in one-year bamboo species by Fe NPs, and by various Fe sources were introduced by a controlled greenhouse experiment. While 80 mg/L Hg significantly reduced plant growth and biomass (shoot dry weight (36%), root dry weight (31%), and shoot length (31%) and plant tolerance (34%) in comparison with control treatments, 60 mg/L Fe NPs and conventional sources of Fe increased proline accumulation (32%), antioxidant metabolism (21%), polyamines (114%), photosynthetic pigments (59%), as well as root dry weight (25%), and shoot dry weight (22%), and shoot length (22%). Fe NPs, Fe S, and Fe C in plant systems substantially enhanced tolerance to Hg toxicity (23%). This improvement was attributed to increased leaf-relative water content (39%), enhanced nutrient availability (50%), improved antioxidant capacity (34%), and reduced Hg translocation (6%) and accumulation (31%) in plant organs. Applying Fe NPs alone or in conjunction with a mixture of Fe C and Fe S can most efficiently improve bamboo plants' tolerance to Hg toxicity. The highest efficiency in increasing biochemical and physiological indexes under Hg, was related to the treatments of Fe NPs as well as Fe NPs + FeS + FeC. Thus, Fe NPs and other Fe sources might be effective options to remove toxicity from plants and soil. The future perspective may help establish mechanisms to regulate environmental toxicity and human health progressions.

Vegetation degradation alters soil physicochemical properties and potentially affects ecosystem services in green spaces of a tropical megacity (Lubumbashi, DR Congo)

Urban soils are degraded by various human pressures, including vegetation degradation, leading to changes in physical and chemical characteristics and affecting important ecosystem services. Soil physical properties are an important fertility control parameter, providing the basis for sustainable soil use in urban conditions; however, they do not receive sufficient attention in work on tropical cities. We assessed the impact of vegetation degradation in six urban green spaces (bare soils versus vegetated soils) on the physical (texture, soil bulk density and structure) and chemical (pH, cation exchange capacity (CEC), organic carbon (OC), nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), copper (Cu) and manganese (Mn)) qualities of soils in a tropical megacity (Lubumbashi, DR Congo). Vegetated soils presented better physical and chemical qualities than bare soils. Vegetated soils were characterized by a high clay and silt content and a good consistency (soil structure), while bare soils were characterized by a high sand content and high bulk density. Vegetated soils were characterized by higher pH, OC, N, C/N ratio, CEC, P, and K. There was no significant difference in Mn or Cu between bare and vegetated soils. Cu was highly variable between sites (from 99 ± 61 mg.kg−1 in VS to 8559 ± 151 mg.kg−1 in BS). Our results demonstrate that the destruction of vegetation, leading to bare soil, negatively affects soil properties and may interfere with ecosystem services provided by urban soils in tropical climates. The physical properties observed in bare soils in this study, including silt, clay, and sand content, soil structure, and soil bulk density, along with chemical properties such as soil pH, cation exchange capacity, and soil organic carbon, can influence the ecosystem services provided by urban soils. These services include regulating water flow and nutrient cycling, enhancing nutrient availability, and supporting ecosystem functions through the cycling of water and nutrients.

Whole Genome Analysis of Streptomyces spp. Strains Isolated from the Rhizosphere of Vitis vinifera L. Reveals Their Role in Nitrogen and Phosphorus Metabolism

The rhizospheric microorganisms of agricultural crops play a crucial role in plant growth and nutrient cycling. In this study, we isolated two Streptomyces strains, Streptomyces sp. LM32 and Streptomyces sp. LM65, from the rhizosphere of Vitis vinifera L. We then conducted genomic analysis by assembling, annotating, and inferring phylogenomic information from the whole genome sequences. Streptomyces sp. strain LM32 had a genome size of 8.1 Mb and a GC content of 72.14%, while Streptomyces sp. strain LM65 had a genome size of 7.3 Mb and a GC content of 71%. Through ANI results, as well as phylogenomic, pan-, and core-genome analysis, we found that strain LM32 was closely related to the species S. coelicoflavus, while strain LM65 was closely related to the species S. achromogenes subsp. achromogenes. We annotated the functional categories of genes encoded in both strains, which revealed genes involved in nitrogen and phosphorus metabolism. This suggests that these strains have the potential to enhance nutrient availability in the soil, promoting agricultural sustainability. Additionally, we identified gene clusters associated with nitrate and nitrite ammonification, nitrosative stress, allantoin utilization, ammonia assimilation, denitrifying reductase gene clusters, high-affinity phosphate transporter and control of PHO regulon, polyphosphate, and phosphate metabolism. These findings highlight the ecological roles of these strains in sustainable agriculture, particularly in grapevine and other agricultural crop systems.

Use and quantification of efficient microorganisms in the development and production of peppers (Capsicum spp.)

The societal pressure for more sustainable agricultural practices drives interest in organic farming, especially within family agriculture, although it has not yet reached the efficacy of traditional agriculture. Effective Microorganisms (EM) hold promise as supplements to organic fertilization, as they accelerate organic matter decomposition and enhance nutrient availability for plants. This study investigated the impact of two types of EM collected in Alegre and Barra de São Francisco, Espírito Santo State, on pepper cultivation, comparing them with commercial EM and standard organic fertilization. Parameters such as plant height, stem diameter, number and mass of fruits, and microbial composition were analyzed. The Alegre EM stood out, yielding better growth and production metrics. The Barra de São Francisco EM also had a positive impact, particularly on fresh aerial part mass and height. Microbiological analysis revealed differences in microbial communities among the EM. It is concluded that the use of EM in conjunction with organic fertilization can benefit pepper cultivation.

Role of Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) as a Plant Growth Enhancer for Sustainable Agriculture: A Review

The rhizosphere of a plant is home to helpful microorganisms called plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), which play a crucial role in promoting plant growth and development. The significance of PGPR for long-term agricultural viability is outlined in this review. Plant growth processes such as nitrogen fixation, phosphate solubilization, and hormone secretion are discussed. Increased plant tolerance to biotic and abiotic stress, reduced use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, and enhanced nutrient availability, soil fertility, and absorption are all mentioned as potential benefits of PGPR. PGPR has multiple ecological and practical functions in the soil’s rhizosphere. One of PGPR’s various roles in agroecosystems is to increase the synthesis of phytohormones and other metabolites, which have a direct impact on plant growth. Phytopathogens can be stopped in their tracks, a plant’s natural defenses can be bolstered, and so on. PGPR also helps clean up the soil through a process called bioremediation. The PGPR’s many functions include indole acetic acid (IAA) production, ammonia (NH3) production, hydrogen cyanide (HCN) production, catalase production, and more. In addition to aiding in nutrient uptake, PGPR controls the production of a hormone that increases root size and strength. Improving crop yield, decreasing environmental pollution, and guaranteeing food security are only some of the ecological and economic benefits of employing PGPR for sustainable agriculture.

The interplay between the inoculation of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria and the rhizosphere microbiome and their impact on plant phenotype

Microbial inoculation stands as a pivotal strategy, fostering symbiotic relationships between beneficial microorganisms and plants, thereby enhancing nutrient uptake, bolstering resilience against environmental stressors, and ultimately promoting healthier and more productive plant growth. However, while the advantageous roles of inoculants are widely acknowledged, the precise and nuanced impacts of inoculation on the intricate interactions of the rhizosphere microbiome remain significantly underexplored. This study explores the impact of bacterial inoculation on soil properties, plant growth, and the rhizosphere microbiome. By employing various bacterial strains and a synthetic community (SynCom) as inoculants in common bean plants, the bacterial and fungal communities in the rhizosphere were assessed through 16 S rRNA and ITS gene sequencing. Concurrently, soil chemical parameters, plant traits, and gene expression were evaluated. The findings revealed that bacterial inoculation generally decreased pH and V%, while increasing H+Al and m% in the rhizosphere. It also decreased gene expression in plants related to detoxification, photosynthesis, and defense mechanisms, while enhancing bacterial diversity in the rhizosphere, potentially benefiting plant health. Specific bacterial strains showed varied impacts on rhizosphere microbiome assembly, predominantly affecting rhizospheric bacteria more than fungi, indirectly influencing soil conditions and plants. Notably, Paenibacillus polymyxa inoculation improved plant nitrogen (by 5.2%) and iron levels (by 28.1%), whereas Bacillus cereus boosted mycorrhization rates (by 70%). Additionally, inoculation led to increased complexity in network interactions within the rhizosphere (∼15%), potentially impacting plant health. Overall, the findings highlight the significant impact of introducing bacteria to the rhizosphere, enhancing nutrient availability, microbial diversity, and fostering beneficial plant-microbe interactions.

Ферментативное разжижение и характеристика пюре из плодов Mangifera laurina Blume

The fruit Mangifera laurina Blume lacks sufficient research attention, with no literature available on its physicochemical properties, proximate nutritional composition, carotenoid content, or enzyme liquefaction process. Therefore, we aimed to optimize the parameters for enzymatic liquefaction of M. laurina puree and comprehensively analyze its characteristics.
 Homogenized pulp of M. laurina was treated with different enzymes (Pectinex Ultra SPL, Celluclast, Fungamyl, and Termamyl). Pectinex Ultra SPL was selected as the most effective enzyme as it significantly decreased viscosity and increased juice yield. Pectinex Ultra SPL was then used to treat the homogenized pulp at different concentrations (0–4.0%), different incubation times (0–2.5 h), and different incubation temperatures (25–60°C). We considered these parameters as independent variables and studied their effects on viscosity, juice yield, total soluble solids, pH, and color to establish optimum conditions for the enzymatic liquefaction of M. laurina pulp.
 The recommended enzymatic liquefaction conditions were set as 2.0% Pectinex Ultra SPL at 45°C for 2.0 h. The optimized enzyme-liquefied mango puree showed a noteworthy decrease in total carotenoids (174.15 ± 0.04 µg/100 g), crude protein, crude fat, and crude fiber, compared to fresh mango puree. However, enzymatic liquefaction provided the mango puree with higher contents of moisture and ash, better water activity, and higher juice yield, compared to fresh mango puree.
 Enzymatic liquefaction of fruit juice provides advantages in terms of improved digestion, increased yield, and enhanced economic profit. Its ability to enhance nutrient availability, increase extraction rates, and optimize production processes makes it a valuable technique in various food industries.

Green synthesis, characterization, and application of iron and molybdenum nanoparticles and their composites for enhancing the growth of Solanum lycopersicum

Abstract Nanomaterials have become integral in various aspects of agricultural practices, including the development of nano-fertilizers for optimized crop nutrition. This study explores the application of green-synthesized iron (Fe) and molybdenum (Mo) nanoparticles, as well as their composites, using a guava leaf extract (GLE). The focus is on assessing their impact on nitrogen fixation and growth in tomato plants (Solanum lycopersicum). The nanoparticles were characterized through Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, Ultraviolet Diffused Reflectance Spectroscopy, Raman Spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction analysis. The experiment involved two application methods (soil and direct plant spraying) with varying nanoparticle concentrations. Results indicate that the 1% composite nanoparticles applied to the soil and 3% Mo directly on plants yield the most favorable growth and nitrogen uptake in S. lycopersicum. Notably, the 1% composite treatment demonstrated significant enhancement in shoot length, number of branches, and shoot diameter at all three growth stages. Conversely, the 3% Mo treatment when applied directly to plants exhibited optimal results showing substantial shoot length, number of branches, and shoot diameter. Post-experimental soil nutrient analysis further revealed the nuanced effects of nanoparticle applications with 1% composite treatments enhancing nutrient availability compared to control and other concentrations. This research contributes to the evolving field of agri-nanotechnology emphasizing the importance of nanoparticle concentration and application method in influencing plant development and nutrient uptake, paving the way for sustainable agricultural practices.

Identifying biochar production variables to maximise exchangeable cations and increase nutrient availability in soils

Biochar is a product of the thermal treatment of sustainably sourced organics or waste biomass, which enhances nutrient availability and exchangeable cations after soil application. Biochar feedstock is one of the primary factors influencing the availability of exchangeable cations in biochar and soil-biochar mix. However, this influence is not satisfactorily understood due to contrasting data among literature for the cation exchange capacity (CEC) and the lack of standard analysis methods for CEC of biochar and soil-biochar mixtures. Therefore, this research was conducted to assess cation exchange in contrasting soil-biochar mixes, where CEC is measured as (1) the sum of base cations (Na+, K+, Mg 2+, and Ca2+) displaced by ammonium acetate (CEC-BC) and (2) NH4+ displaced by potassium chloride (CEC-NH4+). For the first time, we have evaluated CEC-BC and CEC-NH4+ in 21 different biochar samples using a modified method. We then used 12 representative biochars with 3 soil types (2% w/w biochar) and provided insights on relative changes in CEC-BC and individual base cations. Some previous studies have indicated a relationship between CEC and surface area and a degree of additivity in the resulting CEC of soil-biochar mixes. However, our study demonstrates an absence of these correlations and a lack of additivity in the representative biochar products. We found that biochar prepared from mixed garden wastes can increase K+ or Ca2+ in loamy or sandy soils and mitigate potential soil sodicity problems in loamy soils. However, a clayey soil may or may not need biochar for the specific purpose of increasing exchangeable cations. Our results revealed that biochar prepared from hardwood or mixed garden waste can retain NH4+ and deliver it to soil acting as a sink and source for soil nutrients.

Dynamics of plant nutrient signaling through compost

Nutrient signaling is a fundamental aspect of plant growth and development, encompassing intricate pathways that govern nutrient uptake, allocation, and utilization. Plant growth hormones, root exudates, soil microbes intricately coordinate these processes, responding to nutrient availability and environmental cues. These hormones regulate the expression of transporters, enzymes, and ion channels involved in nutrient acquisition and distribution. Furthermore, plant nutrient signaling pathways interface with hormonal pathways, forming a dynamic regulatory network that allows plants to adapt to changing nutrient conditions and stressors. Additionally, these pathways impact secondary metabolism, root architecture, and nutrient homeostasis, influencing crop yield and quality. Complementing nutrient signaling, through compost application enriches soils, enhancing nutrient availability and soil microbial communities, ultimately optimizing nutrient mobilization and uptake. Understanding these mechanisms is vital for sustainable agriculture and improved crop management, promising increased plant growth, yield, and nutrient utilization efficiency.

A Review on Effects of Biofertilizers and Bio Capsules on Vegetative Growth, Flowering and Fruiting Attributes of Strawberry

This paper analyzes the impact of biofertilizers and bio capsules the vegetative growth, flowering, and fruiting attributes of strawberries (Fragaria x ananassa). Biofertilizers are natural substances containing beneficial microorganisms that enhance nutrient availability in the soil, while bio capsules encapsulate beneficial microbes for controlled release. Many researchers have concluded their positive finding with regards to application of various biofertilizers and biocapsules in strawberry as well as in other horticultural crops. This paper provides current findings and explains the role of biofertilizer and bio capsules and its effect on different stages of strawberry development. This review highlights the potential of these sustainable agricultural practices in optimizing strawberry cultivation in an eco-friendly way.

Effect of Mussel Shells as Soil pH Amendment on the Growth and Productivity of Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) Cultivation

Mussel shells, with their calcium carbonate content, serve as a natural pH buffer, aiding in neutralizing acidic soils and, consequently, enhancing nutrient availability for plants. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of treating soils with mussel shells as a soil pH amendment on the agronomic characteristics and productivity of Rosmarinus officinalis. A pot experiment was set up for two growing years. The treatments were amended using different doses of mussel shells. Overall, the treatments were the following: C: unamended soil (control); T1: 0.1%; T2: 0.3%; T3: 0.5%; T4: 1%; T5: 3%; T6: 6%. Plant height was higher in pots amended with 6% mussel shells and reached the value of 32.2 cm in the first year and 51 cm in the second. The application of mussel shells increased the branch length by 53.4–58.7% and the number of branches per plant by 61.3–62% in T6 compared to the control. The total yield of fresh and dry weight in the 1st and 2nd year was ordered as follows: T6 > T5 > T4 > T3 > T2 > T1 > C. In conclusion, while the established optimal quantity for neutralizing soil pH is 300 g of mussel shells per 10 kg of soil, it has been observed that a ratio of 600 g of mussel shells proves more effective in terms of both the productivity and agronomic characteristics of rosemary.

Growing mycelium leather: a paste substrate approach with post-treatments

Abstract This research investigates a novel method for cultivating mycelium-based leather substitutes using a carefully formulated paste consistency substrate. The primary objectives are to enhance nutrient availability, facilitate scalability, and streamline cultivation processes. The study spans a 21-day cultivation period, during which a flower-based medium is employed, eliminating the need for labor-intensive harvesting techniques. Two fungal species, Ganoderma lucidum (rishi) and Pleurotus djamor (pink oyster) are tested to assess their compatibility with the growth method. These species were chosen based on their rapid colonization rates and inherent resilience. The investigation delves into various combinations of crosslinking agents, including glycerol (a plasticizer), commercial tanner, citric acid, and magnesium sulfate. The effects of these agents on tensile strength are compared and qualitative data is analyzed through the use of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and stereo microscopy. Furthermore, the study explores the fabrication potential of non-woven textiles derived from mycelium, emphasizing their suitability as eco-friendly leather alternatives. Scaled prototypes are highlighted to demonstrate their feasibility. Post-treatment processes, such as dyeing with bio-based dyes and acrylic leather paint, are evaluated for their aesthetic impact. The research contributes a biodegradable material alternative that addresses the environmental challenges of high textile consumption. The findings add to the growing body of sustainable design methods in the realm of leather-like materials in bio-design.

Rock Powder Enhances Soil Nutrition and Coffee Quality in Agroforestry Systems

The use of rock powders is an agricultural practice that facilitates the agroecological transition and autonomy of many farmers. These inputs should be used in conjunction with management systems that enhance the weathering of the minerals contained in the rocks. This study aimed to assess the impact of incorporating gneiss powder on soil quality and coffee cultivation within agroecological and organic frameworks, encompassing agroforestry systems (AFSs) as well as areas fully exposed to sunlight (FS). Comprehensive analyses, including chemical, microbiological, and physical assessments, were carried out on the soil. The study involved evaluating various parameters such as electrical conductivity, grain density, total titratable acidity, and pH of the exudates to gauge the coffee quality. Following a 24-month application of rock powder, noteworthy observations included increased soil moisture in agroforestry systems (AFSs), presumably attributable to enhanced nutrient availability (potassium, calcium, magnesium, copper, and zinc) derived from the gneiss powder. In addition, a higher level of CO2 was derived from microbial respiration than from soil production. Similarly, coffee beans presented lower electrical conductivity, higher density, and fewer defects in AFSs than fully exposed sun systems (FS). The total titratable acidity values remain consistent with the limits indicated in the literature for quality coffees; the pH values, however, were lower. The results suggest that the use of gneiss powder enhances soil microorganism activity and accelerates the biological weathering of minerals for coffee plantations in AFSs.

Impact of mico-seed cookies with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi on the growth, yield, and chemical composition of Gynura procumbens

The mico-seed cookies incorporated arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and functioned as an organic conditioner in the soil to enhance nutrient availability through symbiotic impact on the plant at the root system level. The aim of the research was to evaluate the effect of mico-seed cookies on the growth rate, yield, and forage chemical characteristics of Gynura procumbens. The research was conducted in a randomized complete block design with four treatments of mico-seed cookies application (a control group (without mico-seed cookies), and three groups that used mico-seed cookies with diameters of 4 cm (53 g), 5 cm (84 g), and 6 cm (130 g)). The research site was located at IPB University in Bogor, Indonesia, on soil with an acidic pH range of 3.93-4.45. The results showed that the mico-seed cookie improved the direct planting system of G. procumbens indicated by the increasing seedling rate, growth rate, and forage yield. Additionally, the mico-seed cookies triggered the bioactive compounds production. The research concluded that the application of the mico-seed cookie direct planting system to G. procumbens resulted in a statistically significant enhancement of the seedling percentage (up to 15%), colonization (up to 70%), growth rate (25-30%), yield (42-44%), and forage chemical characteristics, especially on trigger bioactive compounds. G. procumbens has potential as forage based on biomass production and high-quality nutrient, especially leaf protein content that reaches up to 25%.

Using Bacillus megaterium as a bio-fertilizer alleviates salt stress, improves phosphorus nutrition, and increases cauliflower yield

The traditional crop production system involves the use of large amounts of chemical fertilizers, which negatively impacts the ecological environment by increasing soil degradation and salinity, threatening sustainable agricultural production. Therefore, there is an urgent need for agricultural practices that increase plant productivity and reduce negative impacts on the environment. Phosphate-solubilizing microorganisms can enhance nutrient availability and plant uptake. This study investigated the effect of Bacillus megaterium as a bio-fertilizer (inoculated and non-inoculated) combined with phosphorus fertilizer (40, 60, and 80 kg. ha−1) on the growth and yield of cauliflower grown under saline conditions, saline soil (9.68 dS.m−1) and saline irrigation water (7.12 dS.m−1). Salt-stressed cauliflower inoculated with Bacillus and fertilized with 60 or 80 kg. ha−1 P2O5 showed improved growth and higher yield compared to other treatments, without significant differences between them. However, Bacillus-treated plants fertilized with 60 P2O5 showed increases in superoxide dismutase (SOD) by 29.3%, catalase (CAT) by 13.9, chlorophyll by 10.4%, N by 7.8%, and P by 8.6%, while Na decreased by 7.8%, resulting in significant increases in cauliflower yield (head weight by 9.3%, and total yield by 8.3%) compared with the control treatment (recommended P fertilizer, 80 kg P2O5. ha−1). The results indicated that the inoculation of salt-stressed plants with Bacillus megaterium is a promising and feasible approach to reduce phosphorus fertilizer use by up to 25% and enhance membrane stability (MSI), relative water content (RWC), nutrient availability, and growth performance, thus mitigating the adverse effects of salt stress exacerbated by climate change.

Effect of Microbial Consortia Inoculation and Chemical Fertilizers on Growth Parameter and Nodulation of Soybean (Glycine max L. merill.) and Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)

Microbial consortia inoculation and chemical fertilizers significantly impact plant growth parameters. Microbial consortia contribute to soil health by enhancing nutrient availability and promoting plant growth, while chemical fertilizers provide essential nutrients. In this study, an Field Experiment was conducted during two successive years in Kharif and Rabi 2020-21 and 2021-22 consecutively on effect of microbial consortia inoculation and chemical fertilizers on productivity and soil properties in soybean chickpea sequence on vertisol at research farm of department soil science and agricultural chemistry Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Agricultural University, Parbhani (MAH) India. The Soil of experimental site was classified as vertisol (Typic Haplustert) dominant montmorillonite type with kaollinite and illite mineral alkaline in reaction. Experimental treatments consist of four levels of laboratory evaluated microbial cultures (Bradyrhizobium, Mesorhizobium, Bacillus megaterium, Pseudomonas striata, Thiobacillus thioxidant) and uninoculated control and four levels of chemical fertilizers (100 % RDF, 75 % RDF, 50 % RDF and Control i.e. (without fertilizers)). Seed treatment of soybean and chickpea was done with microbial consortia immediate before sowing and chemical fertilizers were applied at the time of sowing as per treatments. The results revealed that the application of microbial inoculants with chemical fertilizers showed significant effect on biometric attributes and nodulation of soybean and chickpea. The microbial consortia Rhizobium spp.+ Pseudomonas striata inoculation has highest plant height, shoot weight, root length, number of nodule, fresh weight of nodules, and dry weight of noduels in both crops as compared to uninoculated control. However, the application of chemical fertilizer i.e. N,P and K 100% RDF obviously increased the height, shoot weight, number of nodulation, and fresh weight of nodules in respect of both soybean and chickpea crops. The chemical fetilizers N,P and K are applied in the form of Urea, single super phosphate and muriate of potash respectively.

Enhancing soil health and nutrient availability for Carrizo citrange (X Citroncirus sp.) through bokashi and biochar amendments: An exploration into indoor sustainable soil ecosystem management

This study investigated the efficacy of organic soil amendments: bokashi (Bok), biochar (BC), and their combination (Bok_BC) in promoting soil health, nutrient availability, and growth of Carrizo citrange (X Citroncirus sp. Rutaceae, Parentage Citrus sinensis x Poncirus trifoliata) under indoor greenhouse settings. Results indicate significant alterations in soil parameters like total carbon (C), total nitrogen (N), and C:N ratio due to Bok, BC, and Bok_BC treatments. BC treatments boosted total C, while Bok increased total N, compared to controls. A noteworthy 25 % average decrease in C:N ratio was observed with Bok and Bok_BC, nearing the optimal 24:1 C:N for microbial growth. This highlights the potential of waste by-products in balancing nutrient release to benefit soil health and plant development. Analysis of nitrite (NO2-), nitrate (NO3-), and ammonium (NH4-N) levels revealed a dynamic relationship between soil treatments and time. Bok and Bok_BC amendments combined with both fertilizer doses [700 and 1400 Electrical Conductivity, EC] showed an initial NH4-N spike (averaging 1513 and 1288 μg N/g dry, respectively), outperforming control soils (average 503 μg N/g dry). Other key elements like phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and chlorine also experienced initial surges in Bok and Bok_BC soils before declining, suggesting a gradual nutrient release. The concentration of potentially toxic elements remained mostly stable or inconclusive, warranting further exploration. Bok, BC, and Bok_BC treatments considerably influenced germination rate and plant growth. The germination rate averaged 24.2 %, 23 %, and 22.5 % for Bok, BC, and Bok_BC, compared to the 15.9 % control. Plant height increased with Bok, BC, and Bok_BC to 18.4 cm, 18.7 cm, and 16.4 cm, respectively, from the 14.8 cm control. The results remained consistent across fertilizer doses, emphasizing the soil amendments' role in bolstering soil and plant health. In summary, the research underscores the potential of carbon-based amendments like bokashi and biochar in enhancing soil health, reducing reliance on synthetic fertilizers, and fostering sustainable soil ecosystems. The insights are pivotal for advancing sustainable agriculture in indoor greenhouse settings for nursery plant production.