Comparison of Two Methods of Inoculation of Terrestrial and Marine Microorganisms on Morphological Parameters and Productivity of Wax Chili Plants (Capsicum pubescens R. & P.) in Wintermills

Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate two methods of inoculation of terrestrial and marine microorganisms on morphological parameters and productivity of wax chili plants in greenhouses. Theoretical Framework: Currently, meeting the demand for food requires the excessive use of inorganic fertilizers, causing health problems and environmental pollution. An alternative for agricultural production is beneficial microorganisms, capable of fixing atmospheric nitrogen, solubilizing phosphorus, and performing other metabolic activities. Method: Wax pepper plants inoculated with alginate capsules and immersion in liquid suspension were used. The microorganisms evaluated were Trichoderma harzianum, Debaryomyces hansenii and Stenotrophomonas rhizophila. The experiment was conducted with a randomized block arrangement with ten treatments and ten replications. The variables evaluated were: height, stem diameter, root length and volume, dry biomass weight of plant, root and stem, and fruit yield. The data were analyzed to obtain the variance and comparison of means with the Duncan test (p≤ 0.05) in the SAS statistical program for Windows. Results and Discussion: The Trichoderma harzianum strain inoculated with liquid showed better results in stem height and root dryness variables; in contrast, Trichoderma harzianum in alginate capsules performed better in stem diameter. According to the results, inoculating wax pepper plants with beneficial terrestrial and marine microorganisms represents an ecologically viable alternative for consideration in sustainable production schemes. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by reporting the ability of microorganisms isolated from extreme environments to enhance agricultural production and minimize the impact of chemical use.