Synergistic Effect of Magnetized Humic Substances and Nitrogen Fertilizers on Enhancement Faba Bean (Vicia faba L.) Productivity and Mitigate Soil Salinity

Abstract

Soil salinity is a major threat to plants. It is likely that the use of humic and fulvic acids can reduce salinity stress and improve the physical, chemical and microbiological properties of soils. To test these materials, humic substances (humic and fulvic acids) were extracted from mature compost and then magnetization of these acids was done by magnetic field system. A field experiment was conducted with a split-plot design consisting of 18 treatments with three replicates during successful winter season 2022/2023 on a farm at Sahle El- Hossinia Research Farm Station, Agric. Res. Center, El-Sharkia Governorate, Egypt to evaluation between two methods of treatments (magnetic humic and fulvic acids foliar application and seed soaking) integrated with nitrogen fertilization on some soil chemical and microbial properties. Also, its effects on faba bean (Vicia faba L.) productivity under soil saline conditions. The results showed that the use of magnetized humic acid (either foliar application or seeds soaking) integration with nitrogen fertilization (40 kg-N/fed) led to a decrease in soil pH, EC and an increase its contents of N, P and K. In addition, it improved the counts of total bacteria, actinomycetes, fungi, as well as activity of dehydrogenase and nitrogenase enzymes. Also, led to a significant increase in the number of nodules, as fresh weight and their enzyme activity. Beside to, increased the concentration of chlorophyll and macronutrients. Moreover, it reduced the concentration of proline in the plant and achieved highly significant on growth parameters compared to other treatments. Magnetic technique for both humic and fulvic acids integrated with N-fertilization are promising application for
improve soil properties and increase productivity of faba bean in saline soil.