Investigation of a non-nodulating cultivar of Pisum sativum

Abstract

A non-nodulating cultivar of Pisum sativum cv. Afghanistan was studied to characterize the nature and location of the non-nodulating factor. Nodule formation was not temperature sensitive. Rhizobium leguminosarum could exist in the rhizosphere. Root secretions did not decrease nodulation in adjacent normal plants, nor did the proximity of normal plants promote nodulation. Infection threads formed in the root hairs, but nodules were not formed. The infection process apparently aborted, resulting in the formation of swellings on areas of the root where nodulation would normally occur. Grafting experiments indicate that the factor preventing nodulation is in the root and is not translocated from the cotyledon or plant top.