Advanced two-component microbial inoculant development for enhancing the productivity of agricultural crops

The present study investigates the effectiveness of microbiological preparations in enhancing growth and productivity of key agricultural crops, including barley, maize, sunflower, and root crops (table beet, sugar beet, and potato) under field conditions. The experimental design included four replicates per treatment, with statistical analysis. For maize, the application of microbial consortia resulted in significant improvements in biometric and yield parameters compared to the untreated control. The most pronounced effect was observed with Preparation No.1 ( Azotobacter chroococcum MDC 6111 in combination with Pseudomonas tritici MDC 9168), which increased plant height by 31.4%, ear mass by 63.2%, and 1000-grain weight by 35.1%, corresponding to a total yield increase of 35.1%. In sunflowers, similar trends were detected. Preparation No.1 led to a 24.8% increase in plant height and a 56.1% increase in 1000-seed weight. Preparation No.3 ( Azotobacter chroococcum MDC 6111) also demonstrated a notable positive effect (yield increase of 42.3%), while Preparation No.2 (commercial mineral fertilizer “Nitroammophoska”) showed only marginal improvement. Regarding root crops, Preparation No.1 markedly enhanced productivity. In table beet, yield reached 14.51 ± 0.91 kg/10 m 2 versus 5.89 ± 0.42 kg/10 m 2 in the control. Sugar beet yield increased by 2.4-fold, and potato yield by 27.9%. Preparation No.2 showed moderate effectiveness in beets. These findings emphasizing the role of rhizosphere microorganisms in nutrient mobilization, hormonal regulation, and stress resistance. The study supports the use of microbial inoculants, particularly Preparation No.1, as a sustainable tool to improve crop productivity in diverse agroecosystems.