Corn root growth and rhizosphere bacterial taxa from the biological promoter Humic Land under field conditions

Humic Land is a 100% organic fertilizer that was produced from black peat using innovative technology that protects live soil microorganisms. It contains complex organic compounds known as humic substances and a microbial consortia that can biologically promote the growth of field crops. When Humic Land is applied to corn in a nitrogen-limited environment, the corn grows more lateral roots. A possible explanation is that Humic Land contains bacteria from the family Oxalobacteraceae, such as Massilia spp. that readily colonizes corn roots, leading to more lateral root growth and nitrogen uptake. As these corn root-bacteria interactions were observed in controlled experiments, this study seeks to establish that the relationship also exists in corn fields, through a replicated field research trial. Results will demonstrate the potential efficacy of Humic Land as a biological growth promotor for commercial corn production in Canada.

Faculty Supervisor:

Joann Whalen

Student:

Partner:

Rogitex

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Wholesale trade

University:

McGill University

Program: