Effects of different endophytic bacteria on in vitro growth of fenugreek (trigonella foenum-graecum)

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) is an important legume with high nutritional value and a rich phytochemical composition, making it valuable for both food and medicinal purposes. The germination and early growth stages of fenugreek are critical for overall plant development and yield. In this thesis, the effects of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) and endophytic bacteria (Rhizobium nepotum strain K12d, Pseudomonas kilonensis strain K116, Enterobacter cloacae strain K154, and Pseudomonas donghuensis strain T93) on seed germination, seedling growth, and biochemical properties of fenugreek were investigated. Experiments were conducted under in vitro conditions. Seeds were surface-sterilized with 0.1% HgCl₂ and cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium adjusted to pH 5.8. Each treatment consisted of 15 seeds with four replicates. ZnO nanoparticles were applied at concentrations of 25, 50, and 100 mg/L, and seeds were exposed to these solutions for 2, 4, and 6 hours. Endophytic bacterial treatments were applied as biopriming for 10, 20, and 30 minutes. The effects of the treatments were evaluated based on germination rate, seedling growth parameters, antioxidant activity, and total phenolic content. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and Response Surface Methodology (RSM). The results indicated that appropriate doses of ZnO nanoparticles and endophytic bacterial treatments individually improved plant growth, germination performance, and stress tolerance. In conclusion, the separate application of nanotechnological approaches and beneficial microorganisms provides effective and applicable strategies for enhancing growth, development, and biochemical quality in fenugreek. These findings contribute to the development of environmentally friendly and innovative approaches within the framework of sustainable agricultural practices.