Microbiological (or microbial) inoculants are called biological products containing live cultures of microorganisms useful for plants. Bioinoculants can be applied directly to the soil, but it is more rational to carry out pre-treatment of seeds with their help. Depending on which microorganisms are part of the inoculants, the latter are bacterial, fungal, or combined. In accordance with the purpose, mechanism of action and biological characteristics, inoculants are divided into four main groups: biofertilizers, phytostimulants, mycorrhiza preparations and bioprotection (biocontrol).
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Biofertilizers
Biofertilizers (or bacterial fertilizers ) include preparations of microorganisms that contribute to increasing soil fertility by increasing the concentration or bioavailability of macronutrients. Biofertilizers are the well-known symbiotic nitrogen fixers - nodule bacteria ( Rhizobium sp ., Bradyrhizobium sp .), As well as associative nitrogen fixers, for example, Azospirillum , Azotobacter , Agrobacterium , Azomonas . Phosphate mobilizing bacteria ( Bacillus megaterium, Pseudomonas aureofaciens ) increase the bioavailability of mineral and organic phosphorus compounds (phosphates and phytates) and related metals - Mg, Ca, Fe, Zn, etc.
Phytostimulants
Phytostimulants are preparations of bacteria that produce plant growth stimulants - phytohormones. Phytohormones contribute to the rapid growth and formation of the root system, as well as the aerial organs of plants. Bacteria Azospirillum brasiliense , Ps possess the ability to synthesize plant growth regulators . aureofaciens , Bacillus subtilis .
Mycorrhizal inoculants
Mycorrhiza in Greek means “mushroom roots”. The composition of mycorrhizal inoculants includes fungi that form an extensive network of filaments (hyphae) of mycelium, which significantly increase the suction surface of the root system. Thanks to mycorrhiza, a plant can get more water and minerals (especially phosphorus) from the soil.
Biosecurity means
Bioprotective agents used for seed inoculation ( bio-etchants ) are intended for the prevention of plant infectious diseases. For the production of inoculants with bioprotective functions, bacteria with pronounced antagonistic properties ( Ps. Aureofaciens , B. subtilis ) and phytopathogenic hyperparasite fungi ( Trichoderma viride ) are used. These inoculants are an excellent complement to chemical seed dressers. It must be remembered that chemical fungicides are mainly effective against seed infections, such as dust smut and hard smut of wheat, blistering smut of corn. The main factor in the transmission of pathogens of these diseases are seeds, to a lesser extent - air currents. Biofungicides protect against pathogens of soil infections, including sugar beet root beetle, as well as fusarium, helminthosporious and southern sclerotic rot of cereals and legumes.
- Inoculants and Soil Amendments for Organic Growers . Date of treatment November 21, 2012. Archived January 23, 2013.
- Use of Microbial Inoculants and Organic Fertilisers in Agricoltural Production . Date of treatment November 21, 2012. Archived January 23, 2013.
- Mycorrhizal Inoculants. Speed the Recovery of Disturbed and Burned Areas . Date of treatment November 21, 2012. Archived January 23, 2013.