Combined effects of biochar and plant growth promoting bacteria Pseudomonas putida TSAU1 on plant growth, nutrient uptake of wheat, and soil enzyme activities

Abstract

Many studies indicate the favorable effect of biochar on soil quality and plant fitness. A few studies on the biochar interactions with rhizosphere bacteria and their impact on plant development and nutrient acquisition have been reported. In this study, pot experiments in a glasshouse were performed to figure out the interactive effect of plant beneficial bacteria Pseudomonas putida TSAU6 and biochar amendment on the wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) growth, nutrient uptake, and soil biological activity. The results demonstrated that root and shoot dry biomass of wheat grown in soil mixed with biochar and combined with P. putida TSAU1 were enhanced significantly compared to the control plants. The nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) content in plant biomass were affected by biochar addition and biochar combined with a bacterial inoculant. It was also observed a change in soil enzyme activities, where higher fluorescein diacetate (FDA) and protease activities were observed after biochar application compared to control soil. The addition of biochar combined with bacterial inoculant showed a more profound effect on wheat growth and N, P acquisition. This positive effect is also associated with soil enzyme activities that are involved directly or indirectly in the N and P cycle. These findings confirm the potential of microbial inoculants induced by biochar to improve wheat production.