Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Efficient phosphorus (P) management is essential for sustainable maize (Zea mays L.) production, particularly in phosphorus-deficient calcareous soils where P fixation limits plant growth. In current study, the effects of integrated application of phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB) and biochar (BC) with two P fertilizers; Diammonium phosphate (DAP) and Nitrophos (NP) in eight treatments with three replications were evaluated on maize growth in a lathhouse pot experiment under a completely randomized design (CRD) arrangement. The integrated application of BC and PSB with DAP significantly enhanced maize growth and soil fertility compared to NP and control treatments. BC+PSB+DAP increased shoot fresh weight by 81%, root dry weight by 130%, and plant height by 55%. Physiological traits improved significantly, with photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, and water use efficiency increasing by 48%, 60%, and 33%, respectively. Soil organic matter increased by 36%, nitrogen by 40%, and phosphorus availability by 48%. These results demonstrate the potential of BC and PSB integration, particularly with DAP, to enhance phosphorus use efficiency, reduce reliance on synthetic fertilizers, and improve maize productivity in calcareous soils.
Authors: Muhammad Yasir, Muhammad Baqir Hussain, Suleman Haider Shah, Ghulam Murtaza, Wazir Ahmed, Shahid Iqbal, Sajid Hussain
Language: English
Subfield: Soil Science
Domain: Life Sciences
SDGs: Zero hunger, Life on land
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4414844172
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