Effect of biofertilizer application on growth of maize

Nitrogen (N) has been the limiting factor of maize growth in case of Nepal. To supply required N, Biofertilizers may be a better option, since they are eco-friendly, maintain soil fertility and economical in long term. Study was conducted to investigate the effect of Azotobacter and Trichoderma on the vegetative growth of maize (Zea mays) plants. Experiment was carried out in medium sized pots, at IAAS, Lamjung, from 23-02-2017 to 20-05-2017 in completely randomized design (CRD), consisting eight treatments and three replications. Treatments consisted of association of different fertilizer sources, T1 (controlled), T2 (Azotobacter), T3 (Trichoderma), T4 (Azotobacter + Trichoderma), T5 (NPK), T6 (Azotobacter + Trichoderma + FYM), T7 (Azotobacter + Trichoderma + FYM + NPK), T8 (FYM). Plant height, number of leaves and two SPAD readings (33DAS and 73DAS) were observed before harvesting and stem girth, root length and total dry biomass were observed after harvesting. Results obtained revealed that T7 has the longest height (170cm) followed by T5 (150) and T2 (155).