Enhancing seed germination of Ocimum basilicum by Bacillus spp.
Jovković, Marina
Buntić, Aneta
Milić, Marija
Jelušić, Aleksandra
Dimitrijević, Snežana
Milinković, Mira
Knežević, Magdalena
Abstract: Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) is widely used in traditional medicine, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, nutraceuticals, and food industries due to its aromatic profile and health benefits from its phenolic and flavonoid compounds. It is also a common spice for enhancing the aroma and flavour of meals in various cultures. Treating seeds with selected PGP (plant growth promoting) bacteria can enhance germination efficiency by inducing a physiological state favourable for seed germination through various mechanisms, such as nutrient solubilisation, production of growth hormones, and biocontrol of pathogens. Also, bio-inoculants based on these beneficial bacteria could reduce the dependency on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, thereby mitigating environmental pollution and promoting soil health. Therefore, the aim of this research was a preliminary evaluation of the effects of Bacillus spp. on seed germination of basil in vitro. Seed germination test was performed by filter paper methods on Petri dishes. Basil seeds were treated by Bacillus spp. soil isolates (BHC 2.3 and BHC 2.4), by soaking seeds in overnight bacterial culture. Bacterial isolates were selected based on their previously determined antifungal activity against different Fusarium phytopathogens and the ability to produce indole-3-acetic acid (IAA). After 10 days of experiment, the relative seed germination index (RSGI%) was determined by comparing the number of germinated seeds in treated seeds and untreated control. Results showed that basil seeds treated by isolate BHC 2.4 and BHC 2.3 had RSGI values of 108.69% and 96.65%, respectively. These results indicate the potential of selected Bacillus spp. isolates to enhance germination of basil seeds. Future research should focus on optimizing the application methods and formulations of bio-inoculants based on Bacillus spp. to maximize their effectiveness under semi-controlled conditions and field experiments in order to offer alternative approaches in sustainable agricultural practices.
engleski
2024
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PGP bacteria, soil isolates, bio-inoculants, sustainable agriculture