Effects of lime and micronutrients on nodulation of soybean in acid soils by Rhizobium japonicum

Abstract

Three experiments were performed in field conditions and in the glasshouse. Four different levels of lime and micronutrients were applied and the effect of inoculation with various strains of R. japonicum on the yield and symbiotic performance of soybean was studied. In the first experiment the Rhizobium inoculant used was prepared from a suspension of macerated nodules. In the other two experiments various inoculants were used. The effect of the higher rates of lime addition (4 and 6 t/ha) was to reduce dry weight of nodules, but did not affect plant dry weight and total plant nitrogen. The results show that an addition of 4 t/ha of lime is sufficient for maximum yield in the experimental conditions. There was a significant positive effect of zinc additions. An application of 50 kg FTE Br 12 supplied sufficient of this element. The different inoculants prepared, showed the same efficiency in the field conditions.