Synergistic interaction of Piriformospora indica and microbial inoculants on symbiotic potential, plant nutrition and productivity of chickpea (Cicer arietinum)

The present study was carried out during the winter season of 2011–12 and 2012–13 at Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, to evaluate the efficacy of microbial bioinoculants in chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) using combinatorial approach. A group of microbial inoculants (Mesorhizobium ciceri). Phosphate-solubilizing microorganisms and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria) in presence and absence of P fertilizer was used to testify its synergistic effect with Piriformospora indica on symbiotic traits, growth and yield of chickpea under field conditions. Significant differences were observed with respect to symbiotic potential and other associated parameters with combined inoculation. Inoculation with Mesorhizobium ciceri enhanced nitrogenase activity and leghemoglobin content significantly over un-inoculated control. Significant improvement in N and P nutrition with combined inoculation amended with 30 kg P/ha emphasized the beneficial effect of these and similar trend was reflected in productivity enhancement as well.