Hexose/pentose ratio in rhizosphere exudates-mediated soil eutrophic/oligotrophic bacteria regulates the growth pattern of host plant in young apple-aromatic plant intercropping systems.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

The positive effect of intercropping on host plant growth through plant-soil feedback has been established. However, the mechanisms through which intercropping induces interspecific competition remain unclear.

Methods

In this study, we selected young apple trees for intercropping with two companion plants: medium growth-potential Mentha haplocalyx Briq. (TM) and high growth-potential Ageratum conyzoides L. (TA) and conducted mixed intercropping treatment with both types (TMA) and a control treatment of monocropping apples (CT).

Results

Our findings revealed that TM increased the under-ground biomass of apple trees and TA and TMA decreased the above-ground biomass of apple trees, with the lowest above-ground biomass of apple trees in TA. The

SUBMITTER: Zhao M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11000693 | biostudies-literature | 2024

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature