Effect of Biofertilizer on Agronomic Properties of Phaseolus Vulgaris

Biofertilizers have attracted considerable attention among agronomists and soil scientists due to their potential for promoting sustainable agricultural practices. This study investigates the effects of biofertilizers on some agronomic traits of Phaseolus vulgaris and rhizobacterial populations. A mesocosm experiment was conducted in a greenhouse over five weeks using a randomised block design with six replications. The treatments included microbial inoculants (Rhizobium sp., Azotobacter sp. and Pseudomonas sp.), a consortium of these microorganisms, NPK 315 fertilizer and positive control. Key parameters measured were seed germination, leaf, stem and shoot growth, as well as rhizosphere bacterial populations. Results showed significant variability in seed germination rates. Treatment F (NPK 315) achieved the highest germination rate (90% by Day 6), statistically similar to the positive control. Treatment C (Pseudomonas sp.) had the lowest germination rates (p < 0.05). Treatments A (Rhizobium sp.), B (Azotobacter sp.) and F (NPK 315) produced the greatest leaf lengths, while Treatment E (positive control) had the shortest (p < 0.05). Treatment B (Azotobacter sp.) outperformed others in leaf width and it also led to the highest shoot heights, although with some variability. Treatment C (Pseudomonas sp.) consistently showed the lowest shoot height. Stem diameter growth was most stable in Treatment D (Consortium), while Treatments E and F showed significant improvements after Week 2 (p < 0.05). Treatment B (Azotobacter sp.) consistently promoted the highest leaf growth, while Treatment E had the fewest leaves (p < 0.05). Treatment D (Consortium) had the highest bacterial populations, indicating a synergistic effect. Treatments A and B had moderate bacterial loads, while Treatment C (Pseudomonas sp.) exhibited the lowest bacterial growth. This research demonstrates the potential of biofertilizers, particularly Azotobacter sp., in enhancing agronomic traits and microbial activity in Phaseolus vulgaris.