According to the provided reference, the application of Rhizobium for soybeans can be done in two main ways: either by treating the seeds directly or by applying the inoculum to the soil if seed treatment is skipped. The reference provides specific instructions for the soil application method and a crucial drying step if seed treatment is performed.
While the reference does not detail the initial process of applying the Rhizobium inoculum directly onto the soybean seeds to perform the seed treatment itself, it clearly outlines the necessary steps if seed treatment is not carried out and a subsequent step after seed treatment.
Application Methods for Soybean Rhizobium Inoculation
Based on the reference, here are the methods described for applying Rhizobium to benefit soybean crops:
1. Soil Application (If Seed Treatment is Not Carried Out)
This method is recommended if the seeds were not treated directly with Rhizobium inoculum. It involves mixing the bacterial cultures with organic matter and soil and applying this mixture to the field before sowing.
Steps for Soil Application:
- Quantity: Use 10 packets of Rhizobium (2000 g/ha) and 10 packets (2000 g) of Phosphobacteria.
- Mixing Base: Combine the Rhizobium and Phosphobacteria with 25 kg of Farm Yard Manure (FYM).
- Soil Addition: Mix this combination with 25 kg of soil.
- Application: Apply this mixture to the field before sowing the soybean seeds.
This soil application method ensures the beneficial bacteria are present in the root zone to facilitate nodulation and nutrient uptake.
2. Post Seed Treatment Step
If soybean seeds are treated with a bacterial culture (like Rhizobium), a specific step is required before sowing.
Step After Seed Treatment:
- Drying: Dry the bacterial culture treated seeds in shade for 15 minutes before sowing.
This drying step is important to allow the inoculum to adhere to the seeds and prepare them for planting while minimizing stress to the bacteria.
In summary, the reference describes applying Rhizobium either through soil application as an alternative to seed treatment or by performing a specific drying step if seed treatment has been completed.
