Optimizing growth performance of Robusta coffee seedlings through liquid Trichoderma application

The use of Trichoderma spp. has been reported to promote plant growth by enhancing root development in propagated seedlings. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Trichoderma application and determine the optimal concentration for improving the growth performance of Robusta coffee seedlings. The experiment was conducted in a plastic house using a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with four Trichoderma concentration treatments: A (control), B (1%), C (2%), and D (3%), each with six replications, and four plants per replication. Growth parameters, including plant height, number of leaves, stem diameter, shoot-to-root ratio, and chlorophyll content index, were measured. The application of Trichoderma significantly enhanced plant growth parameters compared to the control. Plant height increased by 17.6%, the number of leaves by 31.9%, stem diameter by 49.1%, and the shoot-to-root ratio by 31.1%. However, Trichoderma application did not significantly affect the chlorophyll content index. The highest growth improvement was observed in seedlings treated with 3% Trichoderma, particularly in plant height and stem diameter. Trichoderma application through the roots positively influences the growth of Robusta coffee seedlings, with the 3% concentration yielding the most significant benefits. These findings suggest that Trichoderma could be an effective bio stimulant for improving the early growth of Robusta coffee propagation.