Speaker
Description
Chickpea, an important component of diversified cropping systems in Mediterranean environments, often face significant challenges when grown in low-input systems. These limitations, including nutrient deficiencies, water stress, and soil health, can reduce grain yield and nutritional quality. Biostimulants, such as liquid vermicompost extract (LVE), offer innovative solutions to enhance soil fertility and promote plant growth. LVE, which is rich in beneficial microorganisms, contains plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR). These microbes can improve nutrient cycling and soil fertility through mechanisms such as nitrogen fixation, phosphorus solubilization, and fostering positive interactions with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF).
This study investigated the interaction effects of LVE on different chickpea cultivars and its impact on various aspects of plant growth, soil nutrition, and microbial activity. A field experiment was conducted at the Centre for Agri-Environmental Research 'Enrico Avanzi' in San Piero, a Grado, Central Italy. LVE was applied throughout the crop's growth cycle, from sowing to flowering, and various soil and plant parameters were measured until harvest. The results revealed significant cultivar-specific responses to LVE application, with the Sultano cultivar demonstrating a 26% increase in biomass, highlighting a positive cultivar-LVE interaction. Grain yield also exhibited variations, with LVE significantly increasing yield in the Pascia (40%) and Ares (32%) cultivars, while decreasing it in the Vittoria (-23%) and Reale (-20%) cultivars. Mycorrhizal colonization rates varied, suggesting complex interactions between LVE, soil conditions, and plant traits. LVE application improved the mycorrhizal inoculation potential of the soil. These findings provide preliminary insights into the potential of LVE to enhance chickpea productivity in low-input systems. The observed positive interactions between specific cultivars and LVE underscore the significance of tailored approaches for optimizing yield and quality. Further research is imperative to refine LVE application strategies and unravel the underlying mechanisms to ensure sustainable legume production.
| Keywords | Chickpea, liquid vermicompost extract, plant growth, soil nutrition, microbial activity |
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