Interaction of plant growth-promoting bacteria on corn seed germination

Maize (Zea mays L.) is a cereal of great economic and social importance. To meet the high demand sustainably, bioinputs have gained prominence for promoting plant growth by reducing environmental impacts. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of applying different dosesof Bacillus aryabhattaiassociated with Azospirillum brasilenseon the germination characteristics of corn seeds. The experimental design used was completely randomized (CRD), with seven treatments and four replications, totaling 28 experimental plots. For the purpose of replication, a germitest paper roll (three sheets per replication) containing 50 corn seeds each was used, totaling 200 seeds per treatment. Evaluations were performed seven days after the experiment's implementation, wherethe percentage of germinated and dead seeds, the total number of normal and abnormal seedlings, the length of the shoot and root, and the determination of fresh and dry weight of the shoot and roots were determined. The treatment with twice the standard dose of B. aryabhattaiassociated with the standard dose of A. brasilense(8 mL/kg of seed + 4 mL/kg of seed) showed the lowest percentage of abnormal seeds. The combination of microorganisms increased all evaluated parameters. Inoculation of corn seeds with B. aryabhattaiand A. brasilense, alone and in combination, had positive effects on the initial development of the crop.