Influence of Phosphorus Levels and Phosphorus Solubilizing Fungi on Yield and Nutrient Uptake by Wheat under Sub-Humid Region of Rajasthan, India

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to assess the influence of phosphorus levels and phosphorus solubilizing fungi on yield and nutrient uptake by wheat. The dry matter production by wheat at tillering, ear emergence, and harvest was significantly higher with 90 kg P 2 O 5 ha −1 and was at par with 60 kg P 2 O 5 ha −1 . Application of Aspergillus awamori gave the highest dry matter accumulation at tillering, ear emergence, and harvest stage of crop growth. Increasing levels of phosphorus increased the grain and straw yield significantly up to 60 kg P 2 O 5 ha −1 of wheat crop. However, the maximum grain and straw yield were obtained at 90 kg P 2 O 5 ha −1 , which was at par with 60 kg P 2 O 5 ha −1 . The combined application of 60 kg P 2 O 5 ha −1 with A. awamori recorded significantly higher grain and straw yield. Increasing level of P application (0 to 90 kg P 2 O 5 ha −1 ) and inoculation with A. awamori and A. niger significantly increased uptake of N, P, and K in wheat at all stages of crop growth. The maximum nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium uptake was recorded at harvest (grain and straw) followed by ear emergence and tillering when seeds were inoculated with Aspergillus awamori .