Interactions between Azotobacter and "phosphobacteria" and their establishment in the rhizosphere as affected by soil fertility

Abstract

The effects on plant growth of "bacterial fertilizers" prepared from Azotobacter spp. and phosphate-solubilizing bacteria ("phosphobacteria") have been the subject of much controversy. Cases where no plant-growth stimulation occurred may often be accounted for by the failure to establish the bacterial inocula in the rhizosphere.Three factors that may influence inocula establishment, i.e. soil fertility, manuring, and interactions between Azotobacter and "phosphobacteria," were examined in pot experiments, designed for statistical analysis, in two neutral–alkaline soils, using lavender plants (Lavandula spica L.). During the experiments the numbers of Azotobacter and "phosphobacteria" were counted. Dry weights of roots and shoots were recorded after 16 weeks of growth.At the end of the experiments there were always more Azotobacter and "phosphobacteria" in the rhizospheres when plants were inoculated with both groups of organisms together than when they were inoculated singly. Addition of 2% farmyard manure to the richer soil enhanced this effect.Plant growth was greatest when seedlings were inoculated with both Azotobacter and the "phosphobacteria."