Efficiency of bio-fertilizer application methods on growth, biomass accumulation, and yield performance of wheat (Triticum Aestivum L)

This study evaluated the influence of different bio-fertilizer application strategies on growth, biomass accumulation, and yield performance of wheat under field conditions using a factorial randomized block design. Treatments included seed inoculation, soil application, broadcast inoculation, and integrated applications of Azotobacter and phosphate-solubilizing bacteria. Key agronomic traits such as plant height, tiller density, dry matter partitioning, and yield components were systematically recorded throughout the crop growth cycle. Results demonstrated that all microbial treatments significantly enhanced vegetative growth and reproductive performance compared to the inoculated control. The integrated treatment (T9) exhibited superior performance, achieving maximum biomass accumulation (239.50 g m⁻¹) and highest grain yield (4607 kg ha⁻¹), representing a 31.6% yield increase. Synergistic microbial interactions improved nitrogen fixation, phosphorus solubilization, Rhizosphere colonization, nutrient uptake efficiency, and photosynthetic productivity. Consequently, enhanced assimilate translocation and sourcesink balance were observed. The study concludes that integrated bio-fertilizer application is an efficient, eco-friendly, and sustainable nutrient management approach for improving wheat productivity and soil fertility while reducing reliance on synthetic fertilizers.