Effect of different levels of Phosphorus and Phosphorus solubilizing bacteria on the growth and yield of soybean (Glycine max L.)

Abstract

Background: Soybean is an important legume crop that contributes largely to protein and edible oil. The current experimental trial was held to study the influence of various phosphorous levels and Phosphorous solubilizing bacteria on the growth and yield attributes of soybean [Glycine max. var. Shivalik]. The trail was conducted on sandy loamy soils of the central plain zone of Punjab. Methods: The trial was accomplished during the Kharif season in the year 2021-2022 on the Shivalik (Himso-333) Variety of soybean. In this study, four levels of phosphorous (50%, 75%, 100%, 125%) in combination with Phosphorous solubilizing bacteria (PSB) were used to study their influence on soybean growth and yield. The experimental design followed was a Randomized block design which consists of 7 treatment combinations and was replicated three times. Result: The study revealed that the soybean has shown a significant response to phosphorous levels and Phosphorous solubilizing bacteria with regard to growth and yield attributes. It is observed that the growth and yield parameters of the soybean have shown an increasing trend up to 75% P2O5 and then decreased from 100% P2O5in all the parameters. The maximum plant height was observed at 86.4 cm in T5 (75%P2O5 + PSB) and the minimum was recorded as 70.9 cm in T1 (Absolute control). The maximum Seed yield was recorded as 2.03 t/hac in T5 (75%P2O5 + PSB) followed by 1.76 t/hac in T4 (50%P2O5 + PSB) and the minimum was obtained as 1.05 t/hac in T1 (Absolute control). This study concluded that the Biofertilizer can be used as a sustainable Agri-input to improve soil health and ultimately yield.