Co-inoculation with a product based on native microorganisms improves germination and seedling growth of Phaseolus vulgaris L.

Agricultural products based on native microorganisms represent an ecological alternative to traditional chemical fertilizers for enhancing growth and crop yield. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the product based on native microorganisms IHPLUS® on germination, emergence, and primary leaf formation of Phaseolus vulgaris L. seedlings. The treatments consisted of a control (immersion in distilled water) and nine treatments that were the combination of IHPLUS® at three concentrations and three immersion times. The application of IHPLUS® significantly increased the percentage of germination, mainly in the first days. After 7 d, the germination rate and root and hypocotyl lengths increased in almost all treatments compared to control seedlings. The beneficial effects of IHPLUS® on the germination of P. vulgaris may be partially attributed to changes on seedling metabolism due to an increase in α-amylase activity and in the content of reducing sugars and soluble proteins. Results suggest that IHPLUS® may act as an enhancer of germination in common beans that might lead to rapid seed germination, uniform seedling growth, and better seedling establishment and crop productivity.