The pleiotropic effects of extract containing rhizobial Nod factors on pea growth and yield

Rhizobial lipochitooligosacharides (Nod factors) influence the development of legume roots, including growth stimulation, nodule induction and root hair curling. However, their effect on the green parts of plants is less known, therefore we evaluated seed and foliar application of an extract containing Nod factors on pea growth and yield. Pea plants were examined from emergence to full maturity, including growth dynamics and morphological (nodule number and weight, the quantity and surface area of leaves) or physiological (photosynthesis and transpiration intensity, chlorophyll and nitrogen content) parameters. The foliar application Nod factor extract, or seed dressing followed by foliar application, resulted in the best outcomes. The number and weight of root nodules, the chlorophyll content in leaves, and the intensity of net photosynthesis were all elevated. As a consequence of Nod factor treatment, the dynamics of dry mass accumulation of pea organs were improved and the pod number was increased. A significant increase in pea yield was observed after Nod factor application. Increase of nodule and pod numbers and improved growth of roots appear to be amongst the beneficial effects of Nod factor extract on the activation of secondary plant meristems.