Effect of Bacillus spp. on the germination and growth of roselle plants (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.)

Resumen

Objective: To analyze the effect of three native strains of Bacillus spp. on roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) germination and plant growth of the tecoanapa variety in greenhouse conditions using the Bio-priming method.
Design/methodology/approach: The identity of the Bacillus strains was verified using PCR technique with the universal primers 27F and 1492R for the amplification of the 16S rDNA gene. The roselle seeds were treated with bacterial cells of Bacillus spp. with Bio-priming method, evaluating the effect on germination and plant growth. The percentage of
germination was evaluated, as well as plant height, root length, and dry matter of plants and roots.
Results: Molecular identification of B. velezensis (T1), B. amyloliquefaciens (T2), and B. subtilis (T3) was carried out. The three treatments caused an increase in germination percentage, root length and plant height, and there was also an increase in dry matter weight of plants and roots, with a significant difference between treatments 1, 2, 3 and the control.
Study limitations/implications: Strains of Bacillus spp. must reach commercial production for field applications.
Findings/conclusions: B. velezensis is the species that demonstrated the highest percentage of germination and a growth-promoting effect, followed by B. amyloliquefaciens and B. subtilis respectively.