CHANGES IN SOME SOIL CHEMICAL PROPERTIES, GROWTH, AND YIELD OF CUCUMBER (CUCUMIS SATIVUS L) ARE CAUSED BY TRICHODERMA REESIE AND TRICHODERMA LONGIBRACHATUM IN DIFFERENT LAND-USE SYSTEMS

The study evaluated the growth-promotion effects of indigenous Trichoderma species—Trichoderma reesii and Trichoderma longibrachatum—on cucumber (Cucumis sativus L) yield parameters and soil chemical properties across different land uses: cultivated land (CL), forest land (FL), and developed area (DA). Soil samples were collected at depths of 0-30 cm and replicated three times. The Trichoderma strains produced key enzymes such as peroxidase and laccase. Results showed a significant increase (p < 0.05) in yield parameters like leaf area and overall yield, along with improvements in soil properties such as pH, total nitrogen, organic carbon, and essential minerals. The combined application of both Trichoderma species significantly enhanced cucumber yields, and improved soil chemical properties compared to the control. These findings suggest the potential for developing effective bio-stimulants, emphasizing the influence of both fungal characteristics and soil quality.