EFFECT OF BAKTOFIT SK BIOFUNGICIDE ON SPRING WHEAT PRODUCTIVITY AND GRAIN QUALITY IN THE FOREST-STEPPE CONDITIONS OF WESTERN SIBERIA

Abstract

In Western Siberia, spring wheat productivity and grain quality are limited by a range of fungal diseases. The widespread use of chemical fungicides carries the risk of pathogen resistance, negative impacts on agrobiocenoses, and increased production costs. Therefore, the search for effective biological alternatives that combine protective properties with growth stimulation and improved crop quality is a pressing issue. The aim of the research was to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the impact of the biofungicide Baktofit SK based on Bacillus subtilis on the yield, elements of the crop structure and technological indicators of spring wheat grain in the forest-steppe conditions of the Novosibirsk region. The study focused on spring soft wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) varieties Novosibirskaya 49 and Likamero. The study examined the impact of a single treatment with the biofungicide Baktofit SK (at rates of 1,0 and 2,0 l/ha, tillering stage) on grain productivity and quality. A field trial revealed that the product significantly increased yield by 0,33–0,55 t/ha (7,9–13,5%), improved yield structure, and increased grain quality: grain weight up to 818 g/l, gluten content up to 34,1%, and protein content up to 13,6%. The highest efficiency was observed at a rate of 2,0 l/ha. The results demonstrate the feasibility of incorporating Baktofit SK into spring wheat cultivation practices in the region.