Phosphate and Potassium Solubilizing Bacteria Effect on Mineral Uptake, Soil Availability and Growth of Eggplant

Experiments were conducted to evaluate the potential of phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) Bacillus megaterium and potassium solubilizing bacteria (KSB) Bacillus mucilaginosus inoculated in nutrient limited soil planted with eggplant. Results showed that rock P and K materials either applied singly or in combination did not significantly enhance soil availability of P and K. PSB increased higher soil P availability than KSB, which was recommended as a K-solubilizer. Inoculation of these bacteria in conjunction with amendment of its respective rock P or K materials increased the availability of P and K in soil, enhanced N, P and K uptake, and promoted growth of eggplant.