LAUSR

The potential of Cenchrus ciliaris L. root powder in sterilized form (as organic matter source) and un-sterilized form with plant growth promoting bacteria (PGPB); Pseudomonas moraviensis, Bacillus cereus and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia was evaluated for improving soil health, physiology and yield of wheat. Cenchrus ciliaris roots were shade dried and ground in powder form. Root powder was applied to wheat in the field, as well as in pots containing sterilized soil at Quaid-e-Azam University Islamabad, for two consecutive years. Pot grown plants comprising 20 g root powder/ pot, while 150 g root powder was added in plot of 1 square meter in field. PGPB existing in applied un-sterilized root powder were re-isolated from rhizosphere soil of pots grown plants after 57d and 122d of sowing. Application of root powder in sterilized form improved organic matter (45%), P and Mg contents of rhizosphere soil and leaves, and positively affected growth, protein content and antioxidant enzymes activities. The application of root powder in un-sterilized form further improved nutrient contents in rhizosphere soil and leaves. Protein, proline, sugar contents, antioxidant activities, Indole acetic acid (IAA), gibberellic acid (GA) and yield components were also improved. The cost benefit ratio analysis for per hectare wheat production reveals that root powder application may increase the farmer’s benefit by 19% in field. Root powder may be a rich source of organic matter as well as Phytostimulant for better crop growth and development.