Effects of Bacillus sp. and Lateral root promoting peptides (LRPP), in seed coated form, in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) growth, and resistance against soil pathogens, under different fertilization systems

Abstract

The experiment aimed to investigate the effects of Lateral root peptides, and Bacillus sp. in the form of a coated seed, on growth, fiber yield, and resistance against soil pathogens in cotton cultivation. In order to investigate the interaction between beneficial soil microorganisms, and soil organic matter, the farm was divided into two different fertilization blocks (chemical and organic). In each block, equal areas (0.3 ha-treatment) were planted in a different order. The measurements started from the germination stage and included the germination rate per meter (number of plants per meter). Four rounds of measurements were taken during the cotton life cycle, such as the height of the plants (cm), the development of the root system (cm), and the number of buds, anthers and bolls per plant and per meter, depending on each phase of the life cycle of the plants. At the marginally complete germination stage, soil samples were taken at 5cm depth in order to isolate soil DNA, and perform PCR analysis for possible finding soil pathogens, but also populations of AMF (Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungus) and BLICH (Bacillus Licheniformis) either for detection in general in soil, or to observe levels of population growth in treatments. The final yield results included harvesting measurements, both by cotton harvest machine and by hand harvest. The statistical analysis of the final results and the Return-on-Investment analysis were obtained. The results showed statistically significant differences in the effect of both Bacillus sp. and lateral root that promote peptides in the growth of cotton plants and in the increase of final yield, while statistically and economically significant differences occurred between Bacillus sp. and Lateral root promoting peptides, with the treatments applied Bacillus, showing stronger root system growth and shoot growth, but also taking into account the cost of implementation, additional profit by 15%, and higher Return on Investment (ROI) by 4.8 times.