Influence of Biofungicides Containing Microorganisms Such as Pythium oligandrum and Bacillus subtilis on Yield, Morphological Parameters, and Pathogen Suppression in Six Winter Pea Cultivars

Abstract

Field peas (Pisum sativum L.) are a valuable source of protein and help to support crop biodiversity in a sustainable agriculture system. To maintain varied crop rotation in sustainable production, it is advisable to include the winter form of pea, which is an excellent alternative to the spring form. However, the prolonged development of winter peas when weather patterns are unfavorable can adversely affect the morphological features and the health of the plants. The literature lacks studies on this issue. The objective of this study was to evaluate the morphological characteristics, yield, and canopy health of selected cultivars of winter peas. The study was conducted at the Prusy Experimental Station of the University of Agriculture in Krakow, located near Krakow, Poland (50°07′28″ N, 20°05′34″ E), during two growing seasons. The study evaluated six cultivars of winter peas and two means of protecting the canopy, with biological products containing Pythium oligandrum (Polyversum WP) or Bacillus subtilis (Serenade ASO). The yield, yield structure, efficiency of N uptake, and health of the plants were assessed. Crop protection treatments using Polyversum WP and Serenade ASO were shown to effectively protect winter peas against Fusarium wilt, which occurred only in the Specter and Arkta cultivars sprayed with Serenade. Polyversum WP increased the productivity of winter peas on average by 0.5 t ha−1 and increased the efficiency of nitrogen uptake on average by 10 kg ha−1 in comparison to the control. The Aviron and Arkta cultivars are recommended for cultivation in the conditions of Central Europe due to their high yield potential, high efficiency of nitrogen uptake, and good canopy health.

The Biocontrol of Plant Pathogenic Fungi by Selected Lactic Acid Bacteria: From Laboratory to Field Study

“…Another example is Serenade ASO, a microbiological fungicide and bactericidal/static agent containing the Bacillus subtilis strain intended for the protection of various plants including fruits and vegetables. In turn, the PIPs are substances produced by genetically modified plants and the genetic material that has been added to the plant [8][9][10]. In the concept of sustainable agriculture, biofertilizers containing beneficial microorganisms also play an important role, helping to increase the resistance of plants and the rhizosphere to biotic and abiotic stresses.…”