Earlier Nodulation Development
LCO is a molecule involved in the rhizobia–legume nodulation system. LCO is an important component in nodulation as a key driver in the communication between plants and rhizobia.
When the LCO molecule is present at the time of planting, it allows for the nodulation process to begin, independent of variety, soil and environmental conditions. The benefit of earlier nodulation initiation is nitrogen availability to the pea and lentil plant, which supports plant growth such as root and shoot development. The result of this early season activity is improved pulse plant performance.
Phosphate Is Crucial To Nitrogen Fixation
Research shows that phosphate nutrition has a significant, positive impact on nitrogen fixation1. Good phosphate nutrition results in more nodules being formed and more active nitrogen fixation.
- Phosphate helps move the energy from photosynthesis to the roots, where it is needed to fuel nitrogen fixation.
- More extensive root growth provides greater opportunity for the development of nitrogen-fixing nodules.
- Faster development of active nodules results in greater nitrogen fixation.
- Phosphate nutrition increases the number and size of nodules and the resulting amount of nitrogen fixed by the plant
Most phosphate fertilizer is also banded away from the seed in pea and lentil crops, resulting in limited early-season availability to the crop. Penicillium bilaiae helps overcome this limitation by providing early-season access to soil and starter fertilizer phosphate.