Integrated Effects of Rhizobial Inoculum and Inorganic Fertilizers on Wheat Yield and Yield Components

Abstract

An experiment was conducted in pots under natural condition with two factor factorial completely randomized design (CRD) (CRD) to investigate the integrated effect of rhizobia inoculums and inorganic fertilizers on growth and yield of wheat crop at The University of Agriculture Peshawar, during 2012-2013. The experiment was comprised of four inoculums (no, lentil, peas and chickpeas) and two NPK levels (recommended 120:90:60 kg•ha −1 & 20% less of recommended). It was observed that inoculation of wheat by rhizobia significantly increased tillers per plant by a maximum of 42%, plant height by 13%, grain per spike by 16%, 100 grain weight by 10%, biological and grain yield by 10% over un-inoculated (control) treatment. Among inoculums, peas inoculum was found to be the most efficient for all traits except plant height where chickpea inoculum performed better. Similarly recommended NPK significantly increased tillers per plant by 33%, plant height by 19%, grain per spike by 9%, 100 grain weight by 10%, biological yield by 8% and grain yield by 10% compared with 20% less of recommended NPK. Interactive effect of inoculum x NPK was significant for tillers per plant, grain per spike, grain yield and non-significant for plant height, 100 grain weight and biological yield. However, it was evident from the results that inoculation improved all traits both under recommended and 20% less of recommended NPK. The persistent good performance of peas and lentil rhizobial inoculation in wheat growth exhibited that this could be used as a plant growth promoting rhizobacteria for wheat and other cereal crops in prevailing soil and climatic conditions.

Co-application of ACC-deaminase producing PGPR and timber-waste biochar improves pigments formation, growth and yield of wheat under drought stress

“…In each plastic pot, 8 kg soil was filled. To fulfil macro nutrients requirement nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) fertilizers were added at the rate of 120: 90 and 60 kg ha −1 respectively, as recommended dose keeping in mind the nutrients concentration of biochar where it was applied 81 . The urea was added in three split doses.…”

Evaluation of potassium-enriched biochar and GA3 effectiveness for Improving wheat growth under drought stress

“…In every pot macro-nutrient needs, nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) fertilizers were incorporated at the recommended rate of 120:90:60 kg ha −1 [ 31 ]. Urea was added in three splits i.e., sowing, seedling (21 days old) and stem elongation (40 days old).…”

Synergistic Effects of Rhizobial Inoculum With Chemical Fertilizer on Growth and Yield of Wheat

“…Therefore, researchers have always attempted to control such threats by producing alternative substitutes which are more economical, environmentally friendly, and properly improved. In this regard, use of beneficial microbes or plant growth promoting rhizobacteria has been proposed as the best approach to improve crop yield (Adnan et al, 2014). Another widely utilized method to enhance soil fertility and crop productivity is the use of chemical fertilizers which have a negative effect on the complex system of biogeochemical cycles.…”