Synergistic Effects of Compost and Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria for Enhancing Maize Growth and Yield

Abstract

Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the most significant cereal crops globally, contributing substantially to the agricultural output. Enhancing maize yield is crucial for food security, and sustainable practices such as using compost and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) can play a vital role. This study investigates the effects of compost, with and without PGPR, on the growth and yield of maize. The experiment utilized varying compost application rates (400, 600, and 800 kg ha^-1) with and without PGPR. Results demonstrated that the combination of compost at 800 kg ha^-1 with PGPR significantly outperformed other treatments. Notably, this combination enhanced plant height by 34%, SPAD chlorophyll value by 48%, shoot length by 18%, root length by 18%, fresh shoot weight by 17%, fresh root weight by 47%, cob fresh weight by 50%, dry shoot weight by 54%, dry root weight by 40%, cob dry weight by 26%, grain number by 81%, 1000 grain weight by 22%, grain nitrogen by 182%, shoot nitrogen by 231%, and soil nitrogen by 1100% compared to the control. Lower compost application rates also showed improvements but were less pronounced. In conclusion, the use of compost, especially when combined with PGPR, significantly enhances maize growth and yield. This sustainable approach reduces the need for chemical fertilizers while improving soil health and crop productivity. These findings underscore the importance of integrating organic amendments and beneficial microbes into agricultural practices to achieve higher yields and sustainability.