Comparison Of Application Of Mycorrhizae And Chemical Fertilizers In Corn Cultivation: A Commitment To Conservation

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to compare the effect of the application of mycorrhizae with the use of chemical fertilizers in corn cultivation, thus provoking a commitment to sustainable production. The research was carried out in La Punta, a cultivation area of the village of La Pacha, located in the township of San Sebastián, in the department of Magdalena. As a differential element within the methodology, psychosocial accompaniment was provided to the participating families. A randomized experimental design was used with four treatments and three replications. Starting in August 2024 and culminating in January 2025. The first consisted of applying triple super phosphate and ammonium nitrate. The second was inoculation with the mycorrhizal fungus Glomus intraradices. The third treatment added mycorrhizal inoculation plus 50% chemical fertilizer. Finally, a control treatment without any application. The comparison consisted of determining the growth of the plant (height and diameter of the stem, leaves and leaf area), the grain yield of maize (kg per row and yield of ton per hectare) and the soil chemistry (Phosphorus (P), Potassium (K), Magnesium (Mg), Calcium (Ca), Sodium (Na), organic matter and nitrogen). The conclusion of the research points out that the application of mycorrhizae can replace the application of mineral fertilizers, as they improve the chemical properties of the soil, plant growth and grain yield, translating into economic savings for the producer and at the same time contributing to the development of sustainable agriculture.