The presented study aimed to investigate the role of an individual and combined bio-inoculation through isolated fungi species (Trichoderma and mycorrhiza) in improving the physical properties of sandy soil planted with maize (Zea mays L.). The experimental layout was in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The maize seeds sown in plastic pots had soil filling for growing the fungal bio-inoculum on the plant’s root hairs. The watering of maize plants used a surface drip irrigation system (DIS). After 60 days of planting, measuring the physical properties of the soil ensued. The combined fungal bio-inoculation treatments (mycorrhiza and Trichoderma) had a significant impact on the bulk density and soil porosity, with average values of 1.23 Mg m-3 and 53.9%, respectively, compared with the control treatment and their individual treatments. The results showed notable differences among the bio-inoculation fungi treatments, as well as with the control treatment. With Trichoderma, mycorrhiza, and their interaction, the average moisture content values were 31.71%, 27.56%, and 47.64%, respectively. For the same three treatments, the average weight diameter values were 0.76, 1.08, and 1.72 mm, and for the saturated hydraulic conductivity of the soil the values were 0.43, 0.48, and 0.16 cm min-1, respectively, compared with the control treatment. Therefore, the fungal bio-inoculation treatments remarkably improved the physical properties of the sandy soil.
Maize (Zea mays L.), fungal bio-inoculation, Trichoderma, mycorrhiza, bulk density, soil porosity, moisture content, weight diameter, saturated hydraulic conductivity
The integration of fungal bio-inoculation (mycorrhiza and Trichoderma) contributed effectively to improving the physical properties of the sandy soil planted with maize (Zea mays L.).