Synergistic effects of organic and inorganic amendments on water relations, osmolyte accumulation, and ion homeostasis in Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) roots under field conditions

Abstract

Sustainable agricultural practices are pivotal for enhancing crop resilience amidst escalating abiotic stresses. This study systematically evaluates the physiological and biochemical responses of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) to diverse organic and inorganic treatments, focusing on relative water content (RWC), proline accumulation, and root ion dynamics (sodium (Naz) and potassium (Kz) under field conditions. Conducted at Settipalli Village, Tirupati, the experiment employed a randomized block design with eight treatments-including Jeevamrutha, Panchagavya, NPK fertilizer, and combinations with Rhizobium and vermicompost-and four replicates per treatment. RWC was determined based on fresh, turgid, and dry weights; proline content was quantified via colorimetric assay; and root Naz and Kz concentrations were analyzed by flame photometry following di-acid digestion. Statistical analysis using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (p d” 0.05) revealed significant treatment-dependent differences. The combined application of Rhizobium, Jeevamrutha, and Panchagavya (T6) resulted in the highest RWC (86.32 ± 3.54%) and proline accumulation (5.4 ± 0.2 µg/ml FW), indicating enhanced water retention and osmotic adjustment. Concurrently, T6 roots exhibited maximum Kzconcentration (4.5 ± 0.4%) and the lowest Naz accumulation (3.1 ± 0.1%), reflecting improved ion homeostasis and salt stress mitigation. These findings highlight the potential of integrating organic and microbial amendments to enhance stress resilience and nutrient efficiency in Fenugreek, offering scalable, eco-friendly strategies for sustainable crop production. This research provides novel field-based insights that could inform future practices aiming at sustainable intensification and food security enhancement.

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