Recent research has unveiled promising results regarding the use of beneficial microbes, specifically Trichoderma strains, in enhancing onion crop growth and yield during the Rabi season. Conducted by Ram Dutta and his team at the ICAR-Directorate of Onion and Garlic Research in Pune, India, the study evaluated eight different Trichoderma strains to determine their impact on onion plants under field conditions.
The researchers confirmed the identity of these strains through gene sequencing and conducted field experiments over two years, from 2020 to 2023. The findings were significant, with all Trichoderma strains demonstrating the capacity to produce indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), a plant hormone that promotes growth. The strains not only improved plant height and leaf chlorophyll content but also enhanced yield-related features such as bulb diameter and overall bulb yield.
Among the strains tested, T2 (OGRDT2) and T3 (GRDT1), both identified as Trichoderma longibrachiatum, were particularly effective, yielding an impressive 32.24 tons per hectare and 30.76 tons per hectare, respectively. In comparison, the untreated control plants yielded only 24.08 tons per hectare. This represents a substantial increase in yield—34% for T2, 28% for T3, and 27% for T5, which was another effective strain identified as Trichoderma asperellum.
The implications of this research extend beyond agricultural productivity. The positive modulation of plant growth through microbial applications presents a significant commercial opportunity, particularly for the energy sector. Sustainable agricultural practices, such as the use of beneficial microbes, can contribute to lower energy consumption in farming by reducing the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides. This aligns with the global shift towards sustainable energy solutions, as improved agricultural practices can lead to reduced greenhouse gas emissions and a smaller carbon footprint.
As Ram Dutta noted, “Based on our findings, it is concluded that the T. longibrachiatum strains OGRDT2 (T2) and GRDT1 (T3), T. asperellum strain GRDT3 (T5) are the best inducers of the onion crop growth and yield in the Rabi season.” This research, published in ‘Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems’, highlights the potential for these Trichoderma strains to be commercialized in onion farming, paving the way for more environmentally friendly agricultural practices.
In summary, the study not only showcases the effectiveness of Trichoderma in boosting onion yields but also suggests a pathway for the energy sector to engage in sustainable agricultural methods, ultimately fostering a more resilient and eco-friendly food production system.
