Influence of some polymers and microorganisms on the soil physical properties under drought conditions

Abstract

This study evaluated the effects of two Super Absorbent Polymers (SAPs) types, P1 and P2, and four microbial isolates (Trichoderma harzianum, two Actinomycetes sp., and Bacillus subtilis) on improving some soil physical properties. The results showed that SAP application, alone or in combination with microbes, significantly reduced bulk density by 6.1% and increased porosity by 5.2% compared to the control. Specifically, the P1C (P1 polymer + Actinomycetes 1) treatment increased water holding capacity by 48.7%, field capacity by 169.4%, permanent wilting point by 180.5%, and available water by 149.8% compared to control based on data from the results. The P1C treatment improved soil properties and moisture characteristics. The synergistic effect of polymers and microbes emerged as an effective strategy to modify soil properties. This study provides valuable insights into using SAP-microbe amendments to enhance soil physical properties, water availability, and agricultural productivity in drought conditions.