Effects of Spent Mushroom Substrate Treated with Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria on Blueberry Growth and Soil Quality
Spent mushroom substrate (SMS) is the residual biomass generated after harvesting the fruitbodies of edible fungi. It is produced in large quantities and contains abundant nutrients. Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are a group of plant-associated microorganisms known for their ability to...
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| Main Authors: | , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
MDPI AG
2025-04-01
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| Series: | Microorganisms |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2607/13/4/932 |
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| Summary: | Spent mushroom substrate (SMS) is the residual biomass generated after harvesting the fruitbodies of edible fungi. It is produced in large quantities and contains abundant nutrients. Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are a group of plant-associated microorganisms known for their ability to enhance plant growth, improve disease resistance, and boost soil quality. In this study, three PGPR strains with the highest plant growth-promoting potential were selected based on their ability to grow effectively in SMS extract. The SMS substrates were mixed with PGPR solutions and sterile water to establish a batch culture system. The mixture was initially incubated at 28 °C for 3 days, followed by continuous aerobic decomposition in a ventilated environment for 180 days. Based on the quality analysis of the PGPR-treated SMS, the 54-day treatment for transplanting blueberry seedlings was selected. The PGPR-treated substrates showed significantly higher TN, HN, and AP than controls (<i>p</i> < 0.05), suggesting a potential role of PGPR in enhancing nutrient availability. Alpha diversity index analysis revealed significant differences in microbial diversity between the PGPR-treated substrates and the control. Furthermore, the PGPR-treated substrates significantly influenced plant growth characteristics, soil nutrient content, and rhizosphere microbial diversity. Enhanced plant growth characteristics were strongly correlated with increased soil nutrient levels, suggesting a potential link between rhizospheric microbial communities and plant growth performance. This study provides a novel approach and experimental framework for the utilization of SMS and the development of PGPR-based biofertilizers, offering valuable insights into sustainable agricultural practices. |
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| ISSN: | 2076-2607 |