The influence of biopreparations on soil nutrient regime and pea yield in the conditions of Southern Ukraine

Abstract

Modern farming systems require environmentally safe technologies that enhance crop productivity without the excessive use of mineral fertilizers. This is particularly important for legumes such as peas, which play a crucial role in restoring soil fertility and supporting food security. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of biopreparations based on nitrogen-fixing bacteria and organic substances on pea productivity in the Southern Steppe of Ukraine and to evaluate their agronomic effectiveness. The research was conducted between 2024 and 2025 on the “Kruiz” and “Bilyi anhel” (“White Angel”) pea cultivars. The study examined the effects of seed pre-sowing treatments with “Azotofit” (based on Azotobacter chroococcum) and “Humifrend” (containing humic substances and microorganisms), as well as foliar feeding with “Organic-balance”. Results and conclusions. The results showed that the highest yield increase was achieved with the combined treatment of “Azotofit” seed treatment and “Organic-balance” foliar application: 0.58 ÷ 0.63 t/ha (28.9 ÷ 32.5 % above control) for “Kruiz” and 0.47 ÷ 0.66 t/ha (18.9 ÷ 26.2 %) for “Bilyi anhel”. The combination of “Humifrend” + “Organic-balance” also improved yields, giving 0.44 ÷ 0.45 t/ha for “Kruiz” and 0.55 t/ha for “Bilyi anhel.” Individual seed treatments consistently increased productivity: “Azotofit” by 0.27 ÷ 0.37 t/ha and “Humifrend” by 0.24 ÷ 0.33 t/ha. Biopreparations also improved soil agrochemical properties, increasing easily hydrolysable nitrogen by 12 ÷ 15 % and slightly lowering pH by 0.2 ÷ 0.3 units. These findings confirm that using biopreparations in pea cultivation is an effective component of modern agricultural technology, enabling higher yields, enhanced soil quality and more environmentally sustainable farming.