Tomato Growth Promotion Induced by Stress Tolerant Phosphate Solubilizing Pseudomonas simiae in Arid trans-Himalaya

Pseudomonas simiae isolated from Seabuckthorn rhizosphere solubilized insoluble phosphate at 4-40oC, pH 4-12 and in presence of 1-5% salt concentration. The optimum condition was observed at 28oC, pH 6 and devoid of any salt stress. Ca 3 (PO 4 ) 2 was solubilized to a great extent than FePO 4 and AlPO 4 . The isolate possess plant growth promoting attributes such as IAA (32 mg l -1 ), siderophore (78%) and HCN (0.1 OD at A 625 ) production. Seed bacterization resulted in 30% and 51% enhanced shoot and root length, respectively in tomato seedling. Pot experiments revealed enhanced plant growth in P. simiae treated plants in both green shade net and open field conditions. Fruit yield was 9.8% and 19.8% higher over control in open and shade net condition, respectively.