Azotobacter-Based Biofertilizers Yield Better, More Sustainable Maize Production

Strategic Insights -

Research conducted at the Institute of Agriculture has explored the efficacy of using Azotobacter-based biofertilizers in maize production. The study found that the use of Azotobacter in combination with farmyard manure (FYM) resulted in higher yields for the Rampur Hybrid-14 maize variety, potentially reducing the need for excessive mineral fertilizers. This breakthrough could have significant implications for commercial maize production in Nepal and beyond.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study involved a two-factorial field experiment in Gaindakot, Nawalpur district, Nepal, to assess the effect of Azotobacter in association with other fertilizers on the growth and yield of different maize varieties.
  • Three maize varieties (Local Pahelo, Rampur Composite, and Rampur Hybrid-14) were tested, with five different nutrient sources, including control, FYM, Azotobacter-inoculated seeds, Azotobacter + FYM, and Azotobacter + chemical fertilizers (NPK).
  • The results showed that Azotobacter inoculation in combination with FYM yielded the best performance, with Rampur Hybrid-14 producing a Leaf Area Index of 0.39, 15 leaves, a grain yield of 8.41 tons per hectare, dry stover weight of 0.964 kg per meter square, and a root length of 32.33 cm.
  • The use of Azotobacter in combination with FYM was found to be a more sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional mineral fertilizers, reducing the risk of soil degradation and ecosystem damage.
  • The study's findings suggest that Azotobacter-based biofertilizers could be a valuable tool for enhancing maize yields while promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Statistics:

  • Leaf Area Index: 0.39 at optimal conditions
  • Grain yield: 8.41 tons per hectare
  • Dry stover weight: 0.964 kg per meter square
  • Root length: 32.33 cm
  • Nutrient sources tested: 5 (Control, FYM, Azotobacter-inoculated seeds, Azotobacter + FYM, and Azotobacter + chemical fertilizers (NPK))
  • Maize varieties tested: 3 (Local Pahelo, Rampur Composite, and Rampur Hybrid-14)
  • Trials conducted: 15 (3 maize varieties x 5 nutrient sources)

Sources:

  • Turkish Journal of Agriculture: Food Science and Technology (2025, 13(6), 1464-1470)
  • DOI: https://doi-org.sdpl.idm.oclc.org/10.24925/turjaf.v13i6.1464-1470.7469
  • Publisher: Hasan Eleroglu, Turkish Journal of Agriculture: Food Science and Technology
  • Authors: Asmita Shrestha, Ram Kumar Shrestha, Soni Thapa, Alisha Shrestha