Synergistic Effects of Azospirillum and Pseudomonas Inoculation on Growth and Yield of Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.)

Abstract

The excessive use of chemical fertilizers in chilli cultivation has raised concerns regarding soil health and environmental sustainability. Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) offer an eco-friendly alternative by enhancing nutrient availability and plant growth through biological processes. The present study evaluated the individual and combined effects of Azospirillum brasilense and Pseudomonas fluorescens on the growth and yield of chilli (Capsicum annuum L.). Rhizosphere soil samples were collected, PGPR were isolated and screened for plant growth-promoting traits, and efficient isolates were evaluated under pot culture conditions. Results revealed that co-inoculation of Azospirillum and Pseudomonas along with 75% recommended dose of fertilizers significantly increased plant height, number of branches, dry matter production, and fruit yield compared to control and single inoculation treatments. The synergistic effect of dual inoculation increased fruit yield by approximately 12–15% compared to 100% NPK and enabled a 25% reduction in nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizer under pot culture conditions. The study concludes that combined application of PGPR can be an effective strategy for sustainable chilli production.