Application of Rhizobium Inoculum and Plant Population on Nodulation and Productivity of Edamame (Glycine max (L.) Merr.)

Abstract

Root nodulation is a crucial process for legumes, including edamame (Glycine max (L.) Merr.), as it enables
biological nitrogen fixation, enhancing nitrogen availability for plant growth. The implementation of Rhizobium
inoculum has been demonstrated to reduce the necessity for synthetic fertilizers, thereby enhancing the health and yield
of the plants in question. Furthermore, optimal plant population management ensures adequate access to light, water, and
nutrients, maximizing productivity. The combination of Rhizobium inoculation and population management represents a
crucial strategy for enhancing the productivity and sustainability of legume crops, such as edamame. This study examines
the impact of Rhizobium inoculation and plant population management on the nodulation and productivity of edamame.
The research was conducted using a randomized block design, with two factors: the application of Rhizobium
(Bradyrhizobium japonicum) at two levels (without inoculation and with inoculation) and plant spacing (20 x 15 cm and
20 x 30 cm). Each treatment was replicated five times. The observed parameters included number of root nodulations,
plant height, leaf area, leaf greenness, number of filled and empty pods, weight of filled and empty pods, wet weight, and
100 seed weight. The data were subjected to analysis of variance, followed by Duncan's Multiple Range Test. The
findings indicated that Rhizobium inoculation markedly enhanced root nodulation, with the 20 x 15 cm spacing in
conjunction with inoculation yielding the highest total nodulation, number and wight filled pods, wet weight, and 100
seed weight.