2025, Vol. 6, Issue 1, Part D
Microbial enzymatic activity in polyhalite-amended agricultural soils
Author(s): Selin Kaya, Mehmet Arslan, Elif Demirci and Burak Yildiz
Abstract: Microbial enzymatic activity is a sensitive integrator of soil biological fertility and a leading indicator of management impacts. This study evaluated whether a multi-nutrient sulfate mineral (polyhalite) stimulates key soil enzymes and improves crop performance in an agricultural soil. A pot experiment with wheat compared control, 50, 100, and 150 kg ha⁻¹ polyhalite equivalents over 60 days. Dehydrogenase, urease, acid phosphatase, and β-glucosidase were assayed at 0, 30, and 60 days; harvest metrics (biomass and N, P, K uptake) were recorded. Data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA with Tukey’s HSD (α = 0.05), and Pearson correlations linked Day-60 enzyme activities to plant responses. Enzyme trajectories increased over time in all treatments, with the strongest and most consistent stimulation at the moderate rate (Poly-100). At Day 60, dehydrogenase activity was ≈31% higher in Poly-100 than control, urease ≈26% higher, and both acid phosphatase and β-glucosidase ≈16% higher. Above-ground biomass rose by ≈26% under Poly-100, accompanied by greater N, P, and K uptake. Dehydrogenase showed a strong positive association with N uptake (r ≈ 0.92), indicating that enhanced microbial respiratory intensity translated into agronomic benefit. Responses at the highest rate (Poly-150) plateaued or slightly declined relative to Poly-100, suggesting a non-linear dose response. Collectively, results support a biologically informed, moderate polyhalite dose that aligns slow-release, balanced nutrient supply with enzyme-mediated C, N, and P cycling, strengthening soil health while improving crop performance. Field-scale, multi-season validation and integration with organic inputs and soil health practices are recommended to refine rate, timing, and placement for diverse soils and climates.
Pages: 329-335 | Views: 344 | Downloads: 77
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How to cite this article:
Selin Kaya, Mehmet Arslan, Elif Demirci, Burak Yildiz. Microbial enzymatic activity in polyhalite-amended agricultural soils. J Adv Microbiol Res 2025;6(1):329-335.
