Enhancing Corn Yield and Soil Fertility in Light Chestnut Soils Using BioEcoGum: A Case Study from Kazakhstan

Abstract

This study evaluates the efficacy of the biological fertilizer BioEcoGum on corn yield and soil fertility under temperate climatic conditions at Karasai, Kazakhstan. The aim of this study was to assess the agronomic, soil, and economic effects of BioEcoGum application on corn (Zea mays L.) cultivated on light chestnut soils in southeastern Kazakhstan. A randomized block design was used, incorporating three organic fertilizer levels (0, 1000, and 2000 kg ha⁻¹) and four BioEcoGum concentrations (0, 2, 4, and 6 cm³/l). Corn hybrids Porumben 458 and 461 were treated via seed soaking (2.5 L/ton) and foliar spraying at vegetative (V4–V6) and reproductive (R1–R2) stages. Results revealed statistically significant increases (p < 0.05) in seed germination rates (by approximately 30%), crop yield (up to 30%), and economic profitability (up to 76.7%) compared to untreated controls. Specifically, the highest corn yield reached 35.7 t/ha under optimal BioEcoGum concentration. Moreover, BioEcoGum significantly enhanced soil organic matter, nutrient availability, and microbial activity, suggesting substantial potential for sustainable agricultural practices. These findings highlight the practical applicability and economic viability of BioEcoGum in improving corn productivity and maintaining soil health.