Soil Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Soil Science, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Nainital, Uttar Pradesh, 263145.
Response of maize to VAM fungal strains inoculation and graded doses of phosphorus was studied in terms of root colonization, fertilizer substitution, plant growth and nutrient uptake in unsterilized pot culture experiments. Inoculation with Gigaspora margarita, Glomus fasciculatum and VAM mixed endophyte individually caused 54, 50 and 58 per cent root colonization, respectively. Mycorrhizal root infection significantly decreased with increasing levels of phosphorus. P application and VAM inoculation increased dry matter accumulation and uptake of N, P and K by maize shoots at 30 and 45 days of growth. The maximum response of inoculation was recorded at 60 kg P ha−1. Inoculation increased available soil phosphorus. Mycorrhizal inoculum may substitute phosphatic fertilizer equivalent to about 30 kg P ha−1.
VAM strains, P doses, root colonization, plant growth, nutrient uptake, maize
