Zinc solubilizing bacteria effects on the growth and yield of rice in sodic soil

Abstract

Sodic soils are categorized by high levels of exchangeable sodium, a high pH i.e above 8.5, and poor soil structure, leads to reduced infiltration of water. They exhibit a tough, cloddy texture when it is dry and a crusty surface when it is wet, hindering the root growth and seedling emergence. Phosphate ion readily reacts with calcium and magnesium during high pH, to form less soluble compounds. This will lead to less available nutrients and less yield. When the pH increases, the availability of the micronutrients be likely to decrease. For the above said reasons; field experiment was conducted at Arasakulam village, Kariapatti Block during 2024-25. The GR, NR and BCR was significantly high in the treatment receiving Soil test based NPK application + 2.5 kg Zinc lysinate ha-1. T3 treatment is on par with T4. Application of zinc solubilizing bacteria in sodic soil increase the availability of zinc as well as uptake of zinc positively in sodic soil. Application of zinc solubilizing bacteria in alkaline soil increase the availability of zinc as well as uptake of zinc positively in alkaline soil.