Using Bacteria… Russia Achieves Increased Corn Yield”
Russian scientists have successfully increased corn crop yields by 15% to 30% using bacterial strains to develop a bio-preparation that enhances corn productivity.
Stepan Nersisyan, a researcher at the Novosibirsk State Agrarian University in Russia, pointed out that countries worldwide suffer from a severe shortage of specialized preparations for stimulating corn growth. He explained that agricultural companies currently focus on producing general plant protection products, which affects their effectiveness. However, developing a fertilizer tailored to a specific crop could significantly improve its productivity.
In a press statement on Wednesday, Nersisyan explained that the selection of bacterial strains was based on their ability to dissolve phosphates, make various forms of phosphorus more available, suppress plant pathogens, fix nitrogen, and stimulate plant growth.
He added, “The research team examined about 250 strains, selecting 40 to 50 during the study, and ultimately narrowing it down to 14 strains.” The scientists first tested the compatibility of these bacterial strains to ensure that none would suppress the others. The effectiveness was then tested in several stages: initially on plant cells, followed by tests on corn seedlings under laboratory conditions.
