Isolation and development of pgpr consortia for turmeric (Curcuma longal)

Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) were isolated from turmeric plants from four different region of Sengaon Dist. Hingoli, Maharashtra State and screened for phyto-hormone production. The efficient isolates were used for the development of bio-inoculum. Total 39 isolates were screened for the production of phyto-hormone and screened for the production of Indoleacetic acid (IAA), phosphate solubilization, and siderophore formation. Out of these, 13 isolates showed favorable results. Isolate TS2 showed highest production of IAA. Nine, isolates were positive for phosphate solubilization, among which TS10 showed maximum phosphate solubilization. Four isolates produced siderophore, among which TS4 showed highest siderophore production. During present investigation, three isolates, with the ratio of 1:1:1, were used for the development of PGPR consortia. The co-inoculation of these bacteria showed significant increase in the number of leaves, height and increased rhizome production.