Impact of varying nutrient levels and bio-inoculants on the growth and physiological responses of Acid Lime (Citrus aurantifolia)

Abstract

The growth and physiological performance of acid lime (Citrus aurantifolia swingle) are greatly influenced by soil fertility and microbial activity. This study investigates the effects of different nutrient levels and bio-inoculants on the growth, physiological responses of acid lime plants. A factorial experiment was conducted with two primary factors: (1) varying levels of nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and (2) the application of bio-inoculants, including Azotobacter, phosphate-solubilizing bacteriaand Biofertisol along with Vermicompost. The results indicated that combined nutrient management and bio-inoculants of 100% RDF (600:200:300 g NPK per plant) recorded highest shoot length at 30,60 and 90 days (2.48,10.08 and 10.68 cm), and shoot diameter at (3.66,4.38 and 5.13 mm), leaves / shoot (44.50), leaf length (7.73 cm) and leaf width (4.13 cm). Additionally, physiological parameters, including maximum chlorophyll content (68.23) light transmission ratio (69.04%) and Energy interception (508.00 Cal cm -2 min-1) were positively influenced by integrated nutrient management. This study underscores the potential of bio-inoculants as a sustainable approach to improve the growth and productivity of acid lime and reducing dependency on chemical fertilizers.