Microbial inoculation to improve plant performance in mine?waste substrates: A test using pigeon pea (<i>Cajanus cajan</i>)

Mining activities alter soil physicochemical and biological properties that are critical for plant establishment. Revitalisation of via microbial inoculations can potentially be adopted to improve vegetation restoration. Here, we evaluate the feasibility using beneficial microorganisms in form commercially available inoculants enhance performance a non-toxic infertile mine-waste substrate, pigeon pea [Cajanus cajan (L) Millsp.] as test plant. Six treatments were established investigate effects (Bradyrhizobium spp., mix uninoculated controls) water availability (low moderate) factorial design over 6 months. Plant was determined by physiological parameters (leaf gas exchange, leaf carbon, nitrogen stable isotopes) growth (height biomass). xylem sap phytohormones measured determine plants' status inoculation treatments. Results revealed had greater effect on than Inoculation treatments, however, improved some parameters. This study suggests physical conditions such moisture nutrient may occlude more subtle (direct or interactive) microbes condition. Prior knowledge amended, species-specific responses, would needed customise maximum benefits ecological restoration, support future adoption this practice.