Influence of Trichoderma viride Application on Seed Quality Attributes in Black Soybean

Abstract

The present study investigates the influence of Trichoderma viride application on seed quality attributes of Black soybean (Glycine max L.), a crop recognized for its nutritional and functional benefits. The experiment was conducted using local germplasm collected from the Tehri district, Uttarakhand, under controlled laboratory conditions at the Plantica – Indian Academy of Rural Development, Dehradun. Five treatments comprising different durations of seed soaking in Trichoderma viride suspension (1 to 4 hours) and an untreated control were evaluated using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with four replications. Key seed quality parameters, including germination percentage, seedling length, shoot and root growth, fresh and dry biomass, and seedling vigor indices, were assessed in accordance with ISTA guidelines. Seeds treated with Trichoderma viride showed significant improvements compared to the control in terms of germination and seedling vigor. Notably, the 1-hour soaking treatment (T2) recorded the highest germination percentage (97%), while the 2-hour (T3) and 3-hour (T4) treatments significantly enhanced seedling length and biomass accumulation, respectively. These enhancements are attributed to the bio stimulatory and bio protective effects of Trichoderma viride, including phytohormone production, nutrient solubilization, and suppression of soil-borne pathogens. The findings show the potential of Trichoderma viride as an effective and eco-friendly bio-priming agent for improving seed quality attributes and promoting sustainable black soybean production under local conditions.