THE RESPONSE OF MAIZE (ZEA-MAYS) TO AZOSPIRILLUM INOCULATION IN VARIOUS TYPES OF SOILS IN THE FIELD

Application of a peat-based powder inoculant of Azospirillum brasilens e, as well as a granular inoculant (each containing 0.5-1.0 x 10(7) Az ospirillum/g moist peat), in the seed furrows of Zea mays resulted in significantly increased yields (11 to 14%) in light soils at low rates of N fertilization. In general, there was no effect of inoculation on plant yields in heavier soils nor when N fertilization was high. Pre- emergence application of granular inoculant and inoculation associated with irrigation were more efficient in increasing yield than inoculat ion post-emergence or seed coating.