Impact of Arbuscular mycorrhiza fungal inoculation on growth and development of Mulberry (Morus spp.) saplings under Kashmir conditions

Two year study was undertaken at two locations in Kashmir valley to assess the feasibility of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungal use in mulberry cultivation. Two AM fungi namely Glomus mosseae and G. fasciculatum were tested at nursery stage with varying levels of phosphorus fertilizer. Highly significant differences were noticed among the treatments, with AM fungi application in combination with 50 or 75% of recommended phosphorus fertilizers proving at par with the treatment wherein 100% chemical phosphorus was applied. The results indicate that the application of AM fungi at nursery stage can help to reduce the use of chemical phosphorus upto the extent of 50% without any negative impact on the growth and development of mulberry saplings.