Journal of Crop Production and Processing

Mycorrhizal fungi can be integrated in soil management to achieve low-cost sustainable agricultural systems. Hence, the effects of non-using (M₁) and using (M₂) of mycorrhizal fungi on reduction of phosphate fertilizer consumption, growth and yield of maize under different levels of phosphate fertilizer (P₁: zero, P₂: 20, P₃: 40, P₄: 60, P₅: 80 and P₆: 100% recommended) were investigated in a factorial experiment based on randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The effect of phosphorus on all traits was significant. The effect of mycorrhiza on all traits (except ear length was) significant. Maximum number of grains per row (28.67) and plant height (214.75 cm) were obtained at treatments of P₆ and P₅, respectively, and minimum values of these traits were achieved at P₁ treatment. Furthermore, the effect of M×P interaction on LAI, CGR, ear length, number of seed rows per ear, 100-seed weight, grain and biological yield was significant. The greatest LAI, CGR_, ear length, number of seed rows per ear, 100-seed weight, grain yield and biological yield were obtained with M₂P₃ treatment and the smallest of these traits were detected with M₁P₁ treatment. Therefore, M₂P₃ treatment may be recommended for achieving the maximum maize grain yield.