Agricultural composition, seed composition, method for promoting plant growth, and method for soil improvement

Abstract

The purpose of the present disclosure is to provide an agricultural composition, a seed composition, a method for promoting plant growth, and a method for soil improvement that are capable of improving plant growth and that use a combination of a biosurfactant and a microbial inoculant.　One embodiment of the present invention is an agricultural composition containing a biosurfactant and a microbial inoculant.

Description

Agricultural composition, seed composition, plant growth promotion method, and soil improvement method

[0001] The present disclosure relates to agricultural compositions, seed compositions, plant growth promotion methods, and soil improvement methods.

[0002] Various studies have been conducted to efficiently grow plants (vegetables, fruit trees, etc.) For example, Patent Document 1 discloses the use of at least one lipopeptide as a plant vitalizer for plant growth.

[0003] Special Publication No. 2020-504768

[0004] In Patent Document 1, no consideration was given to the combined use of lipopeptides and microbial materials.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an agricultural composition, a seed composition, a plant growth promotion method, and a soil improvement method that use a biosurfactant in combination with a microbial material, which can promote plant growth.

[0006] An example aspect of the first embodiment is described as follows.

[0007] [1] An agricultural composition comprising a biosurfactant and a microbial material. [2] The agricultural composition according to [1], wherein the mass ratio of the biosurfactant to the microbial material is 1:50 to 1:20,000. [3] The agricultural composition according to [1] or [2], wherein the biosurfactant is at least one biosurfactant selected from surfactin, rhamnolipid, sophorolipid, and salts thereof. [4] The agricultural composition according to any of [1] to [3], wherein the microbial material is a mycorrhizal fungus material or a Bacillus subtilis material. [5] A seed composition comprising a seed, a biosurfactant, and a microbial material. [6] The seed composition according to [5], wherein the mass ratio of the biosurfactant to the microbial material is 1:50 to 1:20,000. [7] The seed composition according to [5] or [6], wherein the biosurfactant is at least one biosurfactant selected from surfactin, rhamnolipid, sophorolipid, and salts thereof. [8] The seed composition according to any of [5] to [7], wherein the microbial material is a mycorrhizal fungus material or a Bacillus subtilis material. [9] A plant growth promotion method, comprising applying a biosurfactant and a microbial material to a plant.

[10] The plant growth promotion method according to [9], wherein the mass ratio of the biosurfactant to the microbial material is 1:50 to 1:20,000.

[11] The plant growth promotion method according to [9] or

[10] , wherein the biosurfactant is at least one biosurfactant selected from surfactin, rhamnolipid, sophorolipid, and salts thereof.

[12] The plant growth-promoting method according to any one of [9] to

[11] , wherein the microbial material is a mycorrhizal fungus material or a Bacillus subtilis material.

[13] A soil improvement method comprising applying a biosurfactant and a microbial material to soil.

[14] The soil improvement method according to

[13] , wherein the mass ratio of the biosurfactant to the microbial material is 1:50 to 1:20,000.

[15] The soil improvement method according to

[13] or

[14] , wherein the biosurfactant is at least one biosurfactant selected from surfactin, rhamnolipid, sophorolipid, and salts thereof.

[16] The soil improvement method according to any one of

[13] to

[15] , wherein the microbial material is a mycorrhizal fungus material or a Bacillus subtilis material.

[0008] The agricultural composition, seed composition, plant growth promotion method, and soil improvement method of the present disclosure are capable of promoting plant growth.

[0009] Fig. 1 is a photograph of plants produced in Experimental Examples 11 and 13 (Comparative Example). Fig. 2 is a photograph of plants produced in Reference Examples 1 and 3. Fig. 3 is a photograph showing rhizosphere soil. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing the occupancy of each microorganism analyzed in Experimental Examples 17, 18, and 19. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing the occupancy of the microorganisms at the top of Fig. 4.

[0010] The present disclosure will be described in detail below. First Embodiment (Disclosure of Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-043018) The agricultural composition according to the first embodiment includes a biosurfactant and a microbial material. The seed composition according to the first embodiment includes seeds, a biosurfactant, and a microbial material. The plant growth promotion method according to the first embodiment applies a biosurfactant and a microbial material to plants. The soil improvement method according to the first embodiment applies a biosurfactant and a microbial material to soil. The agricultural composition according to the present disclosure can promote plant growth by applying it to plants. The plant growth promotion composition can be applied directly to the seeds, leaves, stems, roots, etc. of plants, to soil, or by adding it to water given to plants. The plant growth promotion method according to the present disclosure can promote plant growth by applying a biosurfactant and a microbial material to plants. The plant growth promotion method may involve applying a biosurfactant and a microbial material simultaneously, or applying a biosurfactant first and then applying a microbial material, or applying a microbial material first and then applying a biosurfactant. The soil improvement method of the first embodiment can improve the quality of the soil by applying a biosurfactant and a microbial material to the soil, and plants can be favorably grown in the soil with improved quality. The soil improvement method may involve applying a biosurfactant and a microbial material simultaneously, or applying a biosurfactant first and then applying a microbial material, or applying a microbial material first and then applying a biosurfactant.

[0011] In the present disclosure, promoting plant growth may mean promoting the initial growth of a plant, or may mean increasing the final yield of a plant.

[0012] A state in which the initial growth of a plant is promoted usually means a state in which the growth of at least one of the above-ground parts and the underground parts, preferably both, is promoted. According to the studies of the present inventors, many conventional compositions for promoting plant growth have been confirmed to promote the growth of either the above-ground parts or the underground parts, and it has been desired to promote the growth of both the above-ground parts and the underground parts. The plant growth-promoting composition of the first embodiment is preferable because it is capable of promoting the growth of both the above-ground parts and the underground parts.

[0013] A state in which the final yield of a plant is increased means a state in which the weight of any part of the plant to be harvested as a crop or the weight of the plant itself has increased. In a state in which the final yield of a plant is increased, for example, in the case of dent corn, the any part may refer to the weight of the entire above-ground part or only the weight of the pistil. For example, in the case of soybeans and wheat, it refers to only the grain. In a state in which the final yield of a plant is increased, it is preferable that the weight of the fruit, seeds, leaves, or stems of the plant to be harvested as a crop is increased.

[0014] <Plants> In the present disclosure, the plant is not particularly limited, but is preferably a crop plant, more preferably an edible plant. Examples of crop plants include corn (maize), wheat, barley, rye, oat, rice, soybean, canola (rapeseed), cotton, sunflower, sugar beet, potato, tobacco, broccoli, lettuce, cabbage, spinach, komatsuna (Japanese mustard spinach), cauliflower, coconut, tomato, cucumber, eggplant, melon, pumpkin, okra, bell pepper, watermelon, carrot, radish, onion, leek, fruit trees, ornamental plants, turf, and pasture grass. In the present disclosure, the seed is not particularly limited, but includes seeds of the above plants. The seed composition contains seeds.

[0015] <Biosurfactant> The agricultural composition and seed composition contain a biosurfactant. The plant growth promotion method and the soil improvement method use a biosurfactant. Examples of the biosurfactant include at least one biosurfactant selected from peptide biosurfactants and sugar biosurfactants. The composition may contain one biosurfactant alone or two or more biosurfactants. The method may use one biosurfactant alone or two or more biosurfactants. Because the composition contains a biosurfactant and the method uses a biosurfactant, plant growth can be promoted. The reason for this is unclear, but this effect was not observed when synthetic surfactants were used; it was an effect specific to biosurfactants.

[0016] In the plant growth-promoting composition, it is preferable to use a biosurfactant that is not derived from Wickerhamomyces anomalus yeast, from the viewpoints of odor and food hygiene.

[0017] Examples of peptide biosurfactants include lipopeptide biosurfactants. Lipopeptide biosurfactants have peptides containing a hydrophobic group and a hydrophilic portion, exhibit surface activity, and are produced by microorganisms. Examples of lipopeptide biosurfactants include surfactin, arthrofactin, iturin, fengycin, serawettin, lykesin, viscosin, and salts thereof.

[0018] The peptide biosurfactant is preferably at least one peptide biosurfactant selected from surfactin and salts thereof. Surfactin and surfactin salts can be represented by the following general formula (1). One type of surfactin or surfactin salt may be used, or two or more types may be used.

[0019] [In formula (1), X represents an amino acid residue selected from leucine, isoleucine, and valine, R represents an alkyl group having 9 to 18 carbon atoms, and M ＋ are each independently a hydrogen ion (H + ), an alkali metal ion, an ammonium ion, or a pyridinium ion.

[0020] In addition, M ＋ When CO is a hydrogen ion, ２ ‐ (M ＋ ) is a hydroxyl group (COOH group). ＋ is a hydrogen ion, it is surfactin, and at least one of M ＋ is an alkali metal ion, an ammonium ion or a pyridinium ion, it means a salt of surfactin. The general formula of surfactin is shown in the following general formula (1').

[0021] [In formula (1′), X and R have the same meanings as in formula (1)]

[0022] X is an amino acid residue selected from leucine, isoleucine and valine, and may be either an L-amino acid residue or a D-amino acid residue, with an L-amino acid residue being preferred.

[0023] R is an alkyl group having 9 to 18 carbon atoms, and is a linear or branched monovalent saturated hydrocarbon group having at least 9 but no more than 18 carbon atoms. Examples of the alkyl group having 9 to 18 carbon atoms include an n-nonyl group, a 6-methyloctyl group, a 7-methyloctyl group, an n-decyl group, an 8-methylnonyl group, an n-undecyl group, a 9-methyldecyl group, an n-dodecyl group, a 10-methylundecyl group, an n-tridecyl group, an 11-methyldodecyl group, an n-tetradecyl group, an n-pentadecyl group, an n-hexadecyl group, an n-heptadecyl group, and an n-octadecyl group, with the 10-methylundecyl group being preferred.

[0024] M ＋ are each independently a hydrogen ion (H +), alkali metal ions, ammonium ions, or pyridinium ions. The alkali metal ions are not particularly limited, but include lithium ions, sodium ions, and potassium ions. The ammonium ions are not particularly limited, but include, for example, N(R １ ) ４ + Examples of the ammonium ion include those represented by the formula: R １ each independently represents hydrogen or an organic group. As an ammonium ion, R １ A preferred embodiment of the quaternary ammonium ion is one in which all of the above are organic groups. Examples of the organic group include an alkyl group, an aralkyl group, and an aryl group. Specifically, examples of the alkyl group include alkyl groups having 1 to 10 carbon atoms, such as methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, n-butyl, and t-butyl. Examples of the aralkyl group include aralkyl groups having 7 to 12 carbon atoms, such as benzyl, methylbenzyl, and phenylethyl. Examples of the aryl group include aryl groups having 6 to 15 carbon atoms, such as phenyl, toluyl, and xylyl. Examples of the ammonium ion include a tetramethylammonium ion and a tetraethylammonium ion. The pyridinium ion is not particularly limited. In the pyridinium ion, a hydrogen atom bonded to a carbon atom constituting a pyridine ring may be substituted with an organic group. In addition, examples of the pyridinium ion include those in which a nitrogen atom constituting a pyridine ring is substituted with an organic group. ＋ The bond to may be, for example, hydrogen or an organic group. The organic group contained in the pyridinium ion is R １ The organic groups mentioned in the explanation of 1. above can be used appropriately.

[0025] Two M present in general formula (1) ＋ may be the same or different. ＋ For example, some M ＋ are hydrogen ions, and some M ＋ In one preferred embodiment, M is an alkali metal ion. The alkali metal ion is not particularly limited, but represents a lithium ion, a sodium ion, a potassium ion, etc. In addition, two M present in the general formula (1)＋ However, if there are two or more types of ions, when focusing on one molecule (salt), two M ＋ may be the same type of ion. ＋ When there are two types of ions, the ratio (molar ratio) of a certain ion A to a certain ion B is, for example, 1:10 to 10:1, preferably 1:5 to 5:1, and more preferably 1:3 to 3:1. ＋ Some of these are hydrogen ions, and some are sodium ions (Na ＋ ) is one of the preferred embodiments.

[0026] Peptide biosurfactants such as surfactin or a salt of surfactin can be obtained by culturing a microorganism, for example, a strain belonging to Bacillus subtilis, and isolating it from the culture medium according to a known method. A purified product may be used, or an unpurified product, for example, the culture medium, may be used as is. Furthermore, those obtained by chemical synthesis methods can also be used in the same way as long as the molecular structure is the same. Commercially available products can also be used.

[0027] Examples of the sugar-type biosurfactant include rhamnolipid, sophorolipid, mannosylerythritol lipid, cellobiose lipid, trehalose lipid, succinoyltrehalose lipid, glucose lipid, polyol lipid, oligosaccharide fatty acid ester, and salts thereof.

[0028] The sugar-type biosurfactant is preferably at least one sugar-type biosurfactant selected from rhamnolipids, sophorolipids, and salts thereof.

[0029] The glyco-type biosurfactant can be obtained according to a known method, and commercially available products can also be used.

[0030] As the biosurfactant, at least one kind of biosurfactant selected from surfactin, rhamnolipid, sophorolipid, and salts thereof is preferred, and as the biosurfactant, at least one kind of biosurfactant selected from surfactin and salts thereof is particularly preferred.

[0031] <Microbial Material> The agricultural composition and seed composition contain a microbial material. The plant growth promotion method and the soil improvement method use a microbial material. The microbial material is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include microbial materials containing at least one selected from Trichoderma fungi, mycorrhizal fungi, nitrogen-fixing bacteria, yeast, Bacillus subtilis, and rhizobia. The microbial material may be used alone or in combination of two or more. In one preferred embodiment, the microbial material is a mycorrhizal fungal material. The amount of microorganisms in the microbial material is not limited. The amount of microorganisms in the microbial material may be, for example, 1.0 x 10 ８ CFU / g~1.0×10 １０ CFU / g. In one preferred embodiment, the microbial material is substantially free of a rhizobia material. Therefore, the microbial material preferably contains at least one species selected from Trichoderma fungi, mycorrhizal fungi, nitrogen-fixing bacteria, yeast, and Bacillus subtilis. In the present disclosure, "substantially free of" a rhizobia material means that the rhizobia material is present in an amount of 0.1 parts by mass or less, preferably 0.01 parts by mass or less, when the total microbial material is taken as 100 parts by mass. In one more preferred embodiment, the microbial material does not contain a rhizobia material, i.e., the rhizobia material is present in an amount of 0 parts by mass.

[0032] <Additives> The agricultural composition may contain, as necessary, components other than the biosurfactant and soybean meal hydrolysate as additives. The seed composition may contain, as necessary, components other than the seeds, biosurfactant, and soybean meal hydrolysate as additives. The plant growth-promoting method and the soil improving method may use, as necessary, components other than the biosurfactant and soybean meal hydrolysate as additives.

[0033] The composition may include one or more additives. The method may include one or more additives. Additives include, but are not limited to, thickeners, dispersants, humectants, colorants, antifoaming agents, UV protectants, antifreeze agents, preservatives, biological control agents or biocides, emulsifiers, sequestrants, plasticizers, phospholipids, flow agents, coalescing agents, waxes, preservatives, fillers (e.g., clay, talc, glass fiber, cellulose, micronized wood, etc.), and / or elements necessary for plant growth (e.g., one or more selected from the group consisting of Mo, Co, B, Fe, Cu, Zn, Mn, S, Mg, Ca, N, P, and K).

[0034] <Agricultural Composition> The agricultural composition contains a biosurfactant and a microbial material as described above.

[0035] The agricultural composition preferably has a mass ratio of biosurfactant to microbial material in the agricultural composition of 1:50 to 1:20,000, more preferably 1:100 to 1:15,000, and even more preferably 1:200 to 1:10,000.

[0036] The agricultural composition contains a biosurfactant and a microbial agent, and may contain an additive. The agricultural composition can be coated on plant seeds to obtain a seed composition.

[0037] The method for producing the agricultural composition is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include a method of preparing a liquid agricultural composition by dissolving or dispersing the components constituting the agricultural composition, i.e., the biosurfactant and microbial material, and any additives used, in water, etc. Examples of liquids such as water that can be used to prepare a liquid agricultural composition include water, organic solvents, and mixed solvents of water and organic solvents, with water being a preferred embodiment.

[0038] When water is used in preparing an agricultural composition for coating plant seeds, the amount of water can be adjusted depending on the water absorbency of the target seeds. For example, in the case of seeds with low water absorbency (e.g., corn, soybean, wheat, etc.), the amount of water can be adjusted so that 8 L to 10 L of the agricultural composition is used per ton of seeds, thereby preparing an agricultural composition for coating seeds with low water absorbency. For example, in the case of seeds with medium water absorbency (e.g., barley, rice, oilseed rape, oats, etc.), the amount of water can be adjusted so that 10 L to 12 L of the agricultural composition is used per ton of seeds, thereby preparing an agricultural composition for coating seeds with medium water absorbency. For example, in the case of seeds with high water absorbency (e.g., sugar beet, spinach, etc.), the amount of water can be adjusted so that 12 L to 150 L of the agricultural composition is used per ton of seeds, thereby preparing an agricultural composition for coating seeds with high water absorbency. The agricultural composition prepared in this manner can be used to coat the target seeds. The seeds coated with the agricultural composition can then be used as a seed composition by drying the water therefrom as needed.

[0039] <Seed composition> The seed composition includes seeds, a biosurfactant, and a microbial material as described above. The seed composition includes the biosurfactant and the microbial material, and may also include an additive. In the seed composition, these components may be present on the surface of the seeds, or may be present inside the seeds after penetration into the seeds, or may be present partially on the surface of the seeds and partially inside the seeds.

[0040] The seed composition preferably has a mass ratio of the biosurfactant to the microbial material in the seed composition of 1:50 to 1:20000, more preferably 1:100 to 1:15000, and even more preferably 1:200 to 1:10000.

[0041] The seed composition contains 0.25 × 10 of the biosurfactant relative to 100% by mass of the seeds. －４ ~2.0 x 10 －２ It may contain 0.3 × 10 －４ ~1.5 x 10 －２ It may contain 0.35×10 －４ ~1.3 × 10 －２ It may contain 0.4 × 10 －４ ~1.1 x 10 －２ It may contain % by mass.

[0042] The method for producing the seed composition is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include a method in which the agricultural composition is prepared as a liquid agricultural composition (coating solution) and the seed surface is coated with the coating solution to prepare the seed composition. Alternatively, the seed composition may be prepared by separately coating seeds with the biosurfactant and the microbial material.

[0043] <Plant Growth Promotion Method> The plant growth promotion method involves applying a biosurfactant and a microbial material to plants as described above. The method for applying the biosurfactant and the microbial material to plants is not particularly limited, and may involve preparing the agricultural composition described above and applying the composition to plants. Alternatively, the biosurfactant and the microbial material may be applied separately to plants. When applied to plants, they may be applied directly to the seeds, leaves, stems, roots, etc. of the plants, to the soil, or by being added to water, etc., given to the plants.

[0044] In the plant growth promotion method, the mass ratio of the biosurfactant to the microbial material applied to the plant is preferably 1:50 to 1:20,000, more preferably 1:100 to 1:15,000, and even more preferably 1:200 to 1:10,000.

[0045] For example, when the agricultural composition is to be sprayed on leaves in the plant growth-promoting method, the agricultural composition for coating plant seeds described above can be diluted 10 to 4,000 times with water to prepare an agricultural composition for foliar spray, and the agricultural composition can be used for foliar spraying.

[0046] <Soil Improvement Method> The soil improvement method involves applying a biosurfactant and a microbial material to soil as described above. The method for applying the biosurfactant and the microbial material to soil is not particularly limited, and may involve preparing the agricultural composition described above and applying the composition to the soil. Alternatively, the soil improvement method may involve applying the biosurfactant and the microbial material separately to the soil.

[0047] In the soil improvement method, the mass ratio of the biosurfactant to the microbial material applied to the soil is preferably 1:50 to 1:20,000, more preferably 1:100 to 1:15,000, and even more preferably 1:200 to 1:10,000.

[0048] For example, when carrying out the soil improvement, the agricultural composition for coating plant seeds described above is diluted 10 to 4000 times with water to prepare an agricultural composition for soil improvement, and the agricultural composition is applied to the soil, thereby improving the soil.

[0049] Second Embodiment (Disclosure of Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-017099) A second embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a composition for activating microorganisms, a composition for promoting plant growth, a method for activating microorganisms, a method for diversifying microorganisms, a method for producing plants, a method for producing seeds, and seeds.

[0050] Rhizosphere microorganisms, which inhabit the rhizosphere, a soil space influenced by plant root secretions and soil microorganisms, are used as microbial materials in the agricultural field. Furthermore, it is believed that a sustainable and / or stable supply of food will be increasingly required in the future. Microorganisms have attracted attention because efficient utilization of microorganisms that inhabit plant growth environments, such as rhizosphere microorganisms, would lead to a sustainable and / or stable supply of food. Among rhizosphere microorganisms, plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) (CK Jha1 and M. Saraf, E3 J. Agric.Res. Develop., Vol. 5 (2), pp. 108-119, April, 2015 and M. Vocciante, et al., Appl. Sci. 2022, 12, 1231) and plant growth-promoting fungi (AA Adedayo and OO Babalola, J. Fungi 2023, 9, 239) are known as microorganisms that contribute to plant growth promotion.

[0051] JP 2022-509204 A describes a soil treatment composition for improving the immune health, growth, and / or yield of plants, the composition comprising Wickerhamomyces anomalus yeast and / or its growth by-products. The soil treatment composition is described as a microbial-based soil treatment composition for improving the health, growth, and total yield of crop plants by improving the health and / or growth of the plant's root system and by stimulating the plant's innate immune and other metabolic systems that contribute to plant health and productivity.

[0052] However, Wickerhamomyces anomalus yeast is a yeast-like fungus that produces ethyl acetate, and is known to cause a thinner odor when attached to food, etc. Therefore, there is a strong demand for a composition for activating microorganisms that can efficiently activate microorganisms such as rhizosphere microorganisms.

[0053] The second embodiment of the present disclosure aims to solve the above-mentioned conventional problems and achieve the following object: That is, the present invention aims to provide a composition for activating microorganisms, a composition for promoting plant growth, a method for activating microorganisms, a method for diversifying microorganisms, a method for producing plants, a method for producing seeds, and seeds, all of which can efficiently activate microorganisms.

[0054] As a result of intensive research by the present inventors to achieve the above-mentioned object, they have found that it is possible to provide a composition for activating microorganisms comprising a biosurfactant, a composition for promoting plant growth comprising a biosurfactant, a method for activating microorganisms comprising a step of treating seeds with a composition containing a biosurfactant, a method for diversifying microorganisms comprising a step of treating seeds with a composition containing a biosurfactant, a method for producing plants comprising a step of treating seeds with a composition containing a biosurfactant, a method for producing seeds comprising a step of treating seeds with a composition containing a biosurfactant, or a composition for activating microorganisms, a composition for promoting plant growth, a method for activating microorganisms, a method for diversifying microorganisms, a method for producing plants, a method for producing seeds, or seeds that can efficiently activate microorganisms using seeds that have a biosurfactant on their surface.

[0055] The second embodiment of the present disclosure is based on the above findings of the present inventors, and the means for solving the problems of the second embodiment are as follows.

[0056] [1] A composition for activating microorganisms, comprising a biosurfactant. [2] A composition for promoting plant growth, comprising a biosurfactant. [3] A method for activating microorganisms, comprising a step of treating seeds with a composition containing a biosurfactant. [4] A method for diversifying microorganisms, comprising a step of treating seeds with a composition containing a biosurfactant. [5] A method for producing plants, comprising a step of treating seeds with a composition containing a biosurfactant. [6] A method for producing seeds, comprising a step of treating seeds with a composition containing a biosurfactant. [7] A seed having a biosurfactant on its surface.

[0057] Further examples of the second embodiment are described as follows: (1) A composition for activating microorganisms, comprising a biosurfactant. (2) The composition for activating microorganisms according to (1), wherein the biosurfactant is surfactin or a salt thereof. (3) The composition for activating microorganisms according to (1), which is a microbial activator that increases microorganisms with an occupancy rate of 1% or less. (4) The composition for activating microorganisms according to (1), which is a microbial diversifier. (5) The composition for activating microorganisms according to (1), which is used for seed treatment. (6) A composition for promoting plant growth, comprising a biosurfactant. (7) A method for activating microorganisms, comprising a step of treating seeds with a composition comprising a biosurfactant. (8) The method for activating microorganisms according to (7), comprising a step of sowing seeds treated with the composition in soil and increasing microorganisms with an occupancy rate of 1% or less. (9) A method for diversifying rhizosphere microorganisms, comprising a step of treating seeds with a composition comprising a biosurfactant. (10) The method for diversifying microorganisms according to (9), comprising a step of sowing seeds treated with the composition in soil and allowing microorganisms to grow at an occupancy rate of 1% or less. (11) A method for producing plants, comprising a step of treating seeds with a composition containing a biosurfactant. (12) A method for producing plants according to (11), comprising a step of sowing seeds treated with the composition in soil and allowing microorganisms to grow at an occupancy rate of 1% or less. (13) A method for producing seeds, comprising a step of treating seeds with a composition containing a biosurfactant. (14) Seeds, characterized by having a biosurfactant on their surfaces.

[0058] According to the second embodiment of the present disclosure, the above-mentioned conventional problems can be solved and the above-mentioned object can be achieved, and a composition for activating microorganisms comprising a biosurfactant, a composition for promoting plant growth comprising a biosurfactant, a method for activating microorganisms comprising a step of treating seeds with a composition containing a biosurfactant, a method for diversifying microorganisms comprising a step of treating seeds with a composition containing a biosurfactant, a method for producing plants comprising a step of treating seeds with a composition containing a biosurfactant, a method for producing seeds comprising a step of treating seeds with a composition containing a biosurfactant, or a seed having a biosurfactant on its surface, which can efficiently activate microorganisms, can be provided.

[0059] <Composition for Activating Microorganisms> The composition for activating microorganisms contains a biosurfactant and may further contain other components.

[0060] <Biosurfactant> The biosurfactant (biological surface-active substance) is a substance having a surface-active function that is produced inside or outside a cell by an organism. Among these, a surface-active substance produced outside the cell by a microorganism is preferred, and a biosurfactant not derived from Wickerhamomyces anomalus yeast is more preferred from the viewpoint of being widely accepted by users.

[0061] The biosurfactant is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose, and examples thereof include peptide-type biosurfactants and sugar-type biosurfactants. Among these, peptide-type biosurfactants are preferred because they can efficiently activate microorganisms. The biosurfactants may be used alone or in combination of two or more types.

[0062] The peptide biosurfactant is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose, and examples thereof include lipopeptide biosurfactants, which have a peptide containing a hydrophobic group and a hydrophilic portion.

[0063] The lipopeptide biosurfactant is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose, and examples thereof include surfactin, arthrofactin, iturin, fengycin, serawettin, lykesin, viscosin, and salts thereof. Among these, surfactin or a salt thereof is preferred because it can efficiently activate microorganisms.

[0064] The surfactin or a salt thereof is represented by the following general formula (1):

[0065] [In formula (1), X represents an amino acid residue selected from leucine, isoleucine, and valine, R represents an alkyl group having 9 to 18 carbon atoms, and M ＋ are each independently a hydrogen ion (H ＋ ), an alkali metal ion, an ammonium ion, or a pyridinium ion.

[0066] The X is not particularly limited as long as it is an amino acid residue selected from leucine, isoleucine, and valine, and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose. However, leucine is preferred, and L-leucine is more preferred, in terms of being able to efficiently activate microorganisms.

[0067] The R is not particularly limited as long as it is an alkyl group having 9 to 18 carbon atoms (a linear or branched monovalent saturated hydrocarbon group having from 9 to 18 carbon atoms), and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose. From the viewpoint of efficient activation of microorganisms, however, an alkyl group having 9 to 17 carbon atoms is preferred, an alkyl group having 9 to 16 carbon atoms is more preferred, an alkyl group having 9 to 15 carbon atoms is even more preferred, an alkyl group having 10 to 14 carbon atoms is particularly preferred, and an alkyl group having 11 to 13 carbon atoms is most preferred.

[0068] Specific examples of R are not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose, and include, for example, an n-nonyl group, a 6-methyloctyl group, a 7-methyloctyl group, an n-decyl group, an 8-methylnonyl group, an n-undecyl group, a 9-methyldecyl group, an n-dodecyl group, a 10-methylundecyl group, an n-tridecyl group, an 11-methyldodecyl group, an n-tetradecyl group, an n-pentadecyl group, an n-hexadecyl group, an n-heptadecyl group, an n-octadecyl group, etc. Among these, the 10-methylundecyl group is preferred from the viewpoint of efficient activation of microorganisms.

[0069] Said M ＋ are each independently a hydrogen ion (H ＋ ), an alkali metal ion, an ammonium ion, or a pyridinium ion.

[0070] The alkali metal ions are not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose. Examples include lithium ions, sodium ions, and potassium ions.

[0071] The ammonium ion is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose. For example, N(R １ ) ４ ＋ Examples of the ammonium ion represented by the above R １ Each independently represents hydrogen or an organic group. １are all organic groups. Examples of the organic group include an alkyl group, an aralkyl group, and an aryl group. Examples of the alkyl group include alkyl groups having 1 to 10 carbon atoms, such as methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, n-butyl, and t-butyl. Examples of the aralkyl group include aralkyl groups having 7 to 12 carbon atoms, such as benzyl, methylbenzyl, and phenylethyl. Examples of the aryl group include aryl groups having 6 to 15 carbon atoms, such as phenyl, toluyl, and xylyl. Specific examples of the ammonium ion include a tetramethylammonium ion and a tetraethylammonium ion. The pyridinium ion is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose. The hydrogen atoms bonded to the carbon atoms constituting the pyridine ring may be substituted with organic groups, and the N atoms constituting the pyridine ring may be substituted with organic groups. ＋ The organic group contained in the pyridinium ion may be the same as that described above for the organic group in the ammonium ion.

[0072] Two M present in general formula (1) ＋ may be the same or different. ＋ There are no particular limitations on the type of the ion exchange agent, and it can be selected appropriately depending on the purpose. ＋ are hydrogen ions, and some M ＋ is preferably an alkali metal ion. The alkali metal ion is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose. Examples thereof include lithium ion, sodium ion, and potassium ion. Among these, sodium ion is preferred. Two M ＋ However, if there are two or more types of ions, when focusing on one molecule (salt), two M ＋ may be the same type of ion. ＋ When there are two types of ions, the ratio (molar ratio) of a certain ion A to a certain ion B is, for example, 1:10 to 10:1, preferably 1:5 to 5:1, and more preferably 1:3 to 3:1.＋ When CO is a hydrogen ion, ２ － (M ＋ ) is a hydroxyl group (COOH group). ＋ is a hydrogen ion, it is surfactin, and at least one of M ＋ is an alkali metal ion, an ammonium ion or a pyridinium ion, it means a salt of surfactin.

[0073] The general formula of the surfactin is shown below as general formula (1').

[0074] [In formula (1′), X and R have the same meanings as in formula (1)]

[0075] The peptide biosurfactant can be obtained by culturing a microorganism, for example, a strain belonging to Bacillus subtilis, and isolating it from the culture solution according to a known method. A purified product may be used, or an unpurified product, for example, the culture solution, may be used as it is. Furthermore, those obtained by chemical synthesis methods may also be used as long as they have the same molecular structure. Commercially available products may also be used.

[0076] The sugar-type biosurfactant is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose, and examples thereof include sodium ion sugar-type biosurfactants. The sodium ion sugar-type biosurfactant is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose, and examples thereof include rhamnolipid, sophorolipid, mannosylerythritol lipid, cellobiose lipid, trehalose lipid, succinoyltrehalose lipid, glucose lipid, polyol lipid, oligosaccharide fatty acid ester, and salts thereof. Among these, at least one selected from rhamnolipid, sophorolipid, and salts thereof is preferred.

[0077] The glyco-type biosurfactant can be obtained according to a known method, and commercially available products can also be used.

[0078] The biosurfactant is not particularly limited and can be selected appropriately depending on the purpose, but at least one selected from surfactin, rhamnolipid, sophorolipid, and salts thereof is particularly preferred because it can efficiently activate microorganisms.

[0079] The lower limit of the content of the biosurfactant in 100% by mass of the microbial activation composition is not particularly limited and can be selected appropriately depending on the purpose, but from the viewpoint of efficient activation of microorganisms, it is preferably 0.0001% by mass or more, more preferably 0.001% by mass or more, even more preferably 0.002% by mass or more, particularly preferably 0.005% by mass or more, and most preferably 0.01% by mass or more. The upper limit of the content of the biosurfactant in 100% by mass of the microbial activation composition is not particularly limited and can be selected appropriately depending on the purpose, but from the viewpoint of efficient activation of microorganisms, it is preferably 10% by mass or less, more preferably 1% by mass or less, even more preferably 0.5% by mass or less, particularly preferably 0.2% by mass or less, and most preferably 0.1% by mass or less. Among these, from the viewpoint of efficiently activating microorganisms, 0.0001% by mass or more and 10% by mass or less is preferred, 0.001% by mass or more and 1% by mass or less is more preferred, 0.002% by mass or more and 0.5% by mass or less is even more preferred, 0.005% by mass or more and 0.2% by mass or less is particularly preferred, and 0.01% by mass or more and 0.1% by mass or less is most preferred.

[0080] <Other Components> The other components are not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose, and examples thereof include a carrier, an additive, etc. The other components may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0081] The carrier is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose, and examples thereof include liquid carriers, solid carriers, etc. The carriers may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0082] The liquid carrier is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose, and examples thereof include water and organic solvents. Examples of the organic solvent include methyl ether, ethyl ether, propyl ether, and butyl ether. The water used as the carrier is not limited to pure water, and may be an aqueous solution, an aqueous suspension, an aqueous gel, or an aqueous slurry, which may have viscosity. The organic solvent used as the carrier is not limited to pure organic solvents, and may be an organic solvent-based solution, suspension, gel, or slurry, which may have viscosity.

[0083] The solid carrier is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose, and examples thereof include hydratable substances. The solid carrier may be in the form of a powder or granules. The hydratable substance is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose, and examples thereof include polyvinylpyrrolidone, random and block copolymers of alkylene oxides, vinyl acetate / vinylpyrrolidone copolymers, alkylated vinylpyrrolidone copolymers, polyalkylene glycols including polypropylene glycol and polyethylene glycol, polyvinyl acetate, polyvinyl alcohol, gelatin, agar, gum arabic, karaya gum, tragacanth gum, guar gum, locust bean gum, xanthan gum, ghatti gum, carrageenan, alginate, casein, dextran, pectin, chitin, 2-hydroxyethyl starch, 2-aminoethyl starch, 2-hydroxyethyl cellulose, methylcellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose salts, cellulose sulfate, polyacrylamide, alkali metal salts of maleic anhydride copolymers, and alkali metal salts of poly(meth)acrylates. Among these, polyvinyl alcohol is preferred because it can efficiently activate microorganisms.

[0084] The additives are not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose, and examples thereof include moisturizers, colorants, antifoaming agents, UV protectants, antifreeze agents, preservatives, biological control agents, biocides, emulsifiers, extenders, sequestrants, plasticizers, phospholipids, flow agents, coalescing agents, waxes, and / or fillers (e.g., clay, talc, glass fiber, cellulose, finely powdered wood, etc.), etc. The carriers may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0085] The composition for activating microorganisms can activate the microorganisms.

[0086] The microorganisms refer to microorganisms that inhabit the plant's growing environment, and examples of the plant's growing environment include the rhizosphere and phyllosphere. The rhizosphere is a soil space influenced by plant root secretions and soil microorganisms, and includes the inner rhizosphere, which is the internal environment of the root, such as the intercellular spaces of the root epidermis and cortex, the root surface, which is the root surface, and the outer rhizosphere, which is the soil region surrounding the root. The phyllosphere is defined as the surface of the above-ground part of a plant, and phyllosphere microorganisms include epiphytes (ectophytic fungi) present on the leaf surface and endophytes (endophytic fungi) present inside the leaf tissue. The microorganisms are not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose, and examples thereof include bacteria and fungi. Among these, plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) and plant growth-promoting fungi (PGPF) are preferred. Specific examples of the microorganisms are not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose, and include bacteria such as those of the Bradyrhizobium, Bacillus, and Clostridium genera, and fungi such as those of the Penicillium genus.

[0087] The activation is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose, and examples include an increase in microorganisms and microbial diversification. The increase in microorganisms is preferably an increase in microorganisms (rare species) that occupy 1% or less in a specific growth environment. The microorganisms that occupy 1% or less refer to microorganisms that account for 1% or less of the total number of microorganisms in a specific growth environment, where the total number of microorganisms is 100%. The increase in microorganisms that occupy 1% or less refers to an increase in microorganisms that account for 1% or less of the total number of microorganisms in a specific growth environment before activation or before activation, where the total number of microorganisms is 100%. The diversification of microorganisms refers to an increase in the variety of microorganisms in a specific growth environment.

[0088] In another embodiment, the activation refers to the exhibiting of at least one of the following effects i) to iii): i) an increase in the number of rhizosphere microorganisms, more specifically, an increase in the total number of rhizosphere microorganisms in the target rhizosphere; ii) an increase in plant growth-promoting microorganisms (PGPM) such as plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) and plant growth-promoting fungi (PGPF), more specifically, an increase in PGPR and / or PGPF; iii) diversification of rhizosphere microorganisms, specifically, an increase in the types of microorganisms growing in the target rhizosphere, and / or an increase in rhizosphere microorganisms (rare species) with an occupancy rate of 1% or less among rhizosphere microorganisms.

[0089] The composition for activating microorganisms can diversify the microorganisms, and therefore can be used as a microbial diversification agent.

[0090] The composition for activating microorganisms can promote plant growth and can therefore be used as a composition for promoting plant growth. The growth is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose, but early growth is preferred. Early growth refers to growth from germination to the middle of the vegetative growth period, when dry matter production begins to rapidly increase. For example, it refers to growth within 90 days, 60 days, 30 days, 25 days, 21 days, or 14 days after germination.

[0091] The composition for activating microorganisms is applied to plants, soil, or water given to plants. Among these, it is preferably applied to leaves, seeds, seedlings, fruits, etc. of plants, and more preferably used for seed treatment.

[0092] The seed treatment method is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose, and examples thereof include a method of applying the microbial activating composition, a method of soaking the microbial activating composition, etc. Among these, the method of applying the microbial activating composition is preferred from the viewpoint of efficient activation of microorganisms, a method of uniformly applying the microbial activating composition while rotating seeds is more preferred, and a method of uniformly applying the microbial activating composition while rotating dried seeds is even more preferred.

[0093] The microorganism activating composition can be used as a seed treatment composition or a seed coating composition to efficiently activate the microorganisms by using the microorganism activating composition for seed treatment.

[0094] The lower limit of the amount of the biosurfactant per ton of seeds is not particularly limited and can be selected appropriately depending on the purpose, but from the viewpoint of efficient activation of microorganisms, it is preferably 0.1 g or more, more preferably 0.2 g or more, and even more preferably 0.5 g or more. The upper limit of the amount of the biosurfactant per ton of seeds is not particularly limited and can be selected appropriately depending on the purpose, but from the viewpoint of efficient activation of microorganisms, it is preferably 500 g or less, more preferably 200 g or less, and even more preferably 100 g or less. Among these, from the viewpoint of efficient activation of microorganisms, it is preferably 0.1 g or more and 500 g or less, more preferably 0.2 g or more and 200 g or less, and even more preferably 0.5 g or more and 100 g or less.

[0095] The seeds are not particularly limited and can be selected appropriately depending on the purpose, and examples thereof include gymnosperm seeds and angiosperm seeds. Among these, angiosperm seeds are preferred. The angiosperms are not particularly limited and can be selected appropriately depending on the purpose, and examples thereof include grasses, lilies, Musaceae, Bromeliaceae, Orchidaceae, Cruciferae, Leguminosae, Solanaceae, Cucurbitaceae, Convolvulaceae, Rosaceae, Mulberry, Malvaceae, Asteraceae, Amaranthaceae, and Polygonaceae. Among these, legumes and grasses are preferred.

[0096] Examples of the Gramineae plants include rice, wheat, barley, corn, oats, turfgrass, sorghum, rye, foxtail millet, and sugarcane. Examples of the Liliaceae plants include leeks and asparagus. Examples of the Musaceae plants include bananas. Examples of the Bromeliaceae plants include pineapples. Examples of the Orchidaceae plants include orchids.

[0097] Examples of the Brassicaceae family include Arabidopsis thaliana, Chinese cabbage, rapeseed, cabbage, cauliflower, and radish. Examples of the Leguminaceae family include soybean, adzuki bean, kidney bean, pea, cowpea, and alfalfa. Examples of the Solanaceae family include tomato, eggplant, potato, tobacco, and chili pepper. Examples of the Cucurbitaceae family include oriental melon, cucumber, melon, and watermelon. Examples of the Convolvulaceae family include morning glory, sweet potato (sweet potato), and bindweed. Examples of the Rosaceae family include rose, strawberry, and apple. Examples of the Moraceae family include mulberry, fig, and rubber tree. Examples of the Malvaceae family include cotton and kenaf. Examples of the Asteraceae family include lettuce. Examples of the Amaranthaceae family include sugar beet. Examples of the Polygonaceae family include buckwheat.

[0098] The method for producing the composition for activating microorganisms is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose. For example, a method in which a biosurfactant and other components are mixed and stirred until homogenous is mentioned.

[0099] <Plant growth-promoting composition> The plant growth-promoting composition contains a biosurfactant and can further contain other components. The biosurfactant and other components are as described above in (Composition for activating microorganisms).

[0100] <Method for Activating Microorganisms> The method for activating microorganisms includes a step of treating seeds with a composition containing a biosurfactant, and may further include other steps.

[0101] <Step of treating seeds with a composition containing a biosurfactant> The composition containing a biosurfactant contains a biosurfactant and can further contain other components. The biosurfactant and other components, as well as the seeds and seed treatment, are as described above in (Composition for activating microorganisms).

[0102] <Other Steps> The other steps are not particularly limited and can be selected appropriately depending on the purpose, and examples thereof include a step of sowing seeds treated with the composition in soil. Among these, a step of sowing seeds treated with the composition in soil and growing microorganisms with an occupancy rate of 1% or less is preferred. By sowing seeds treated with the composition in soil, microorganisms with an occupancy rate of 1% or less can be grown.

[0103] <Method for diversifying microorganisms> The method for diversifying microorganisms includes a step of treating seeds with a composition containing a biosurfactant, and may further include other steps. The step of treating seeds with a composition containing a biosurfactant and other steps are as described in the above-mentioned (Method for activating microorganisms).

[0104] <Method for producing a plant> The method for producing a plant includes a step of treating seeds with a composition containing a biosurfactant, and may further include other steps. The step of treating seeds with a composition containing a biosurfactant and other steps are as described above in (Method for activating a microorganism).

[0105] <Method for producing seeds (coated seeds)> The seed production method includes a step of treating seeds with a composition containing a biosurfactant. The step of treating seeds with the composition containing a biosurfactant is as described above in (Method for activating microorganisms). By the seed production method, coated seeds coated with the composition containing the biosurfactant can be obtained.

[0106] <Seeds (Coated Seeds)> The seeds contain a biosurfactant and may further contain other components. Among these, those having a biosurfactant on the surface of the seeds are preferred. The seeds having a biosurfactant on the surface of the seeds may have the biosurfactant only on the surface of the seeds, or a portion of the biosurfactant may have penetrated into the inside of the seeds. The biosurfactant and other components are as described above in (Composition for Activating Microorganisms). The seeds are produced by the above-mentioned (Method for producing seeds (coated seeds)).

[0107] The first and second embodiments of the present disclosure are independent of each other, but the definitions, regulations, ranges, etc. of terms in the first embodiment of the present disclosure may be replaced with definitions, regulations, ranges, etc. corresponding to those in the second embodiment of the present disclosure, or the definitions, regulations, ranges, etc. in the second embodiment of the present disclosure may be replaced with definitions, regulations, ranges, etc. corresponding to those in the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0108] Therefore, in one embodiment, the first embodiment of the present disclosure is an invention for reinforcing the second embodiment of the present disclosure, and further, in one embodiment, the second embodiment of the present disclosure is an invention for reinforcing the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0109] This specification incorporates the disclosure of Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-017099, from which the present application claims priority, and further incorporates the disclosure of Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-043018, from which the present application claims priority.

[0110] The present embodiment will be described below with reference to examples, but the present disclosure is not limited to these examples. Note that each experimental example is an independent experiment.

[0111] In this example, "SF" means surfactin Na (product name: Kaneka Surfactin, manufactured by Kaneka), and "SL" means sophorolipid (prepared according to Journal of Oleo Science, 60, (5) pp. 267-273 (2011)).

[0112] [Experimental Example 1] A seed composition was prepared as follows, and corn was grown under normal conditions.

[0113] A seed composition was prepared by coating 100 g of corn seeds (variety: Snowdent Otoha) with 800 μL of a coating solution containing SF and a thickener (polyvinyl alcohol (Poval)) in water using a coating device (manufactured by SATEC Corporation), followed by coating with the mycorrhizal fungal material. The coating was performed so that SF was 0.5 g to 100 g per ton of seeds and the mycorrhizal fungal material was 0.5 kg to 5 kg per ton of seeds.

[0114] 9 cm pots were filled with culture soil, and one seed composition (coated corn seed) was sown per pot. After sowing, the seeds were kept in a closed greenhouse set at 24°C / 14 hours during the day and 18°C / 10 hours at night, and the growth status was investigated 21 days after sowing. The investigation was carried out by measuring the dry weight of the aboveground and underground parts. The test was repeated 12 times, and the average value was calculated.

[0115] Table 1 shows the measurement results of the dry weight of the aboveground parts in Experimental Example 1, and Table 2 shows the measurement results of the dry weight of the underground parts in Experimental Example 1. In Tables 1 and 2, corn seeds that had not been subjected to the above-mentioned coating treatment were used when the amount of SF used was 0 g / MT-seed and the amount of mycorrhizal fungal material used was 0 kg / MT-seed. In Tables 1 and 2, the dry weight of the aboveground parts and the dry weight of the underground parts are shown as relative values ​​(%), with the dry weight of the aboveground parts and the dry weight of the underground parts of corn seeds that had been used with SF used at 0 g / MT-seed and the amount of mycorrhizal fungal material used at 0 kg / MT-seed set at 100.

[0116]

[0117]

[0118] Tables 1 and 2 show that the seed compositions of the present disclosure have superior growth potential compared to conventional seeds.

[0119] [Experimental Example 2] As shown below, a seed composition was prepared, and corn was cultivated under salt stress conditions.

[0120] A seed composition was prepared by coating 100 g of corn seeds (variety: Snowdent Otoha) with 800 μL of a coating solution containing SF and a thickener (polyvinyl alcohol (Poval)) in water using a coating device (manufactured by SATEC Corporation), followed by coating with the mycorrhizal fungal material. The coating was performed so that SF was 0.5 g to 100 g per ton of seeds and the mycorrhizal fungal material was 0.5 kg to 5 kg per ton of seeds.

[0121] Culture soil was filled into 7.5 cm pots, and the bottom of the pots was allowed to absorb a sodium chloride aqueous solution. One seed composition (coated corn seeds) was then sown per pot. After sowing, the plants were kept in a closed greenhouse set at 24°C / 14 hours during the day and 18°C / 10 hours at night, and the growth status was investigated 21 days after sowing. The investigation was carried out by measuring the dry weight of the aboveground and underground parts. The test was repeated 12 times and the average value was calculated.

[0122] Table 3 shows the measurement results of the dry weight of the aboveground parts in Experimental Example 2, and Table 4 shows the measurement results of the dry weight of the underground parts in Experimental Example 2. In Tables 3 and 4, corn seeds that had not been subjected to the above-mentioned coating treatment were used when the amount of SF used was 0 g / MT-seed and the amount of mycorrhizal fungal material used was 0 kg / MT-seed. In Tables 3 and 4, the dry weight of the aboveground parts and the dry weight of the underground parts are shown as relative values ​​(%), with the dry weight of the aboveground parts and the dry weight of the underground parts of corn seeds that had been used with SF used at 0 g / MT-seed and the amount of mycorrhizal fungal material used at 0 kg / MT-seed set at 100.

[0123]

[0124]

[0125] As shown in Tables 3 and 4, all of the seed compositions disclosed herein showed an increase in the dry weight of the aboveground parts and / or the dry weight of the underground parts, and were shown to have superior growth ability compared to normal seeds even under salt stress conditions.

[0126] [Experimental Example 3] Seed compositions were prepared as follows, and corn was grown under normal conditions.

[0127] A seed composition was prepared by coating 100 g of corn seeds (variety: Snowdent Otoha) with 800 μL of a coating solution containing a biosurfactant (SF or SL) and a thickener (polyvinyl alcohol (Poval)) in water using a coating device (manufactured by SATEC Corporation), followed by coating with a mycorrhizal fungal material. The biosurfactant was coated at 10 g per ton of seeds, and the mycorrhizal fungal material was coated at 5 kg per ton of seeds.

[0128] 9 cm pots were filled with culture soil, and one seed composition (coated corn seed) was sown per pot. After sowing, the seeds were kept in a closed greenhouse set at 24°C / 14 hours during the day and 18°C / 10 hours at night, and the growth status was investigated 21 days after sowing. The investigation was carried out by measuring the dry weight of the aboveground and underground parts. The test was repeated 12 times, and the average value was calculated.

[0129] Table 5 shows the measurement results of the dry weight of the aboveground part and the dry weight of the underground part in Experimental Example 3. In Table 5, corn seeds that were not subjected to the above-mentioned coating treatment were used as a control. In Table 5, the dry weight of the aboveground part and the dry weight of the underground part are shown as relative values ​​(%) when the dry weight of the aboveground part and the dry weight of the underground part of the control corn seeds are set to 100.

[0130]

[0131] Table 5 shows that the seed composition of the present disclosure has superior growth potential compared to normal seeds. As a biosurfactant, surfactin Na was superior to sophorolipid.

[0132] [Experimental Example 4] As shown below, a seed composition was prepared, and corn was cultivated under salt stress conditions.

[0133] A seed composition was prepared by coating 100 g of corn seeds (variety: Snowdent Otoha) with 800 μL of a coating solution containing SF and a thickener (polyvinyl alcohol (Poval)) in water using a coating device (manufactured by SATEC), followed by coating with the mycorrhizal fungal material. The coating was performed so that SF was 50 g per ton of seeds and the mycorrhizal fungal material was 5 kg per ton of seeds.

[0134] After filling 7.5 cm pots with culture soil, the bottoms were allowed to absorb a sodium chloride solution, and one seed composition (coated corn seeds) was sown per pot. After sowing, the plants were kept in a closed greenhouse set at 24°C / 14 hours during the day and 18°C / 10 hours at night, and the growth status was investigated 21 days after sowing. The investigation was carried out by measuring the dry weight of the aboveground and underground parts. The test was repeated 12 times, and the average value was calculated.

[0135] Table 6 shows the measurement results of the dry weight of the aboveground part and the dry weight of the underground part in Experimental Example 4. In Table 6, corn seeds that were not subjected to the above-mentioned coating treatment were used as a control. In Table 6, the dry weight of the aboveground part and the dry weight of the underground part are shown as relative values ​​(%) when the dry weight of the aboveground part and the dry weight of the underground part of the control corn seeds are set to 100.

[0136]

[0137] Table 6 shows that the seed composition of the present disclosure has superior growth ability compared to normal seeds even under salt stress conditions.

[0138] [Experimental Example 5] (Production of Coated Dent Corn Seeds 1) 100 g of dent corn seeds (variety: Snow Dent Otoha) were coated with 800 μL of a coating solution containing 0.05 mg of surfactin (Surfactin Na: Kaneka Surfactin, manufactured by Kaneka Corporation), 20 μL of polyvinyl alcohol, and 20 μL of a coloring pigment using a coating device (manufactured by SATEC Co., Ltd.) to produce coated dent corn seeds. The amount of surfactin coated was 0.5 g per ton of seeds.

[0139] [Experimental Example 6] (Production of Coated Dent Corn Seeds 2) Coated dent corn seeds were produced in the same manner as in Experimental Example 5, except that the amount of surfactin coated per ton of seeds was 100 g.

[0140] Experimental Example 7 (Comparative Example) (Production of Coated Dent Corn Seeds 3) Coated dent corn seeds were produced in the same manner as in Experimental Example 5, except that surfactin was not added to the aqueous coating solution.

[0141] [Experimental Example 8] (Production of Coated Soybean Seeds 1) 100 g of soybean seeds (variety: Fukuyutaka) were coated with 800 μL of a coating solution containing surfactin (Surfactin Na: Kaneka Surfactin, manufactured by Kaneka Corporation), polyvinyl alcohol, and a coloring pigment using a coating device (manufactured by SATEC Co., Ltd.) to produce coated soybean seeds. The amount of surfactin coated per ton of seeds was 0.5 g.

[0142] [Experimental Example 9] (Production of Coated Soybean Seeds 2) Coated soybean seeds were produced in the same manner as in Experimental Example 8, except that the amount of surfactin coated was 100 g per ton of seeds.

[0143] Experimental Example 10 (Comparative Example) (Production of Coated Soybean Seeds 3) Soybean seeds were coated in the same manner as in Experimental Example 8, except that surfactin was not added to the aqueous coating solution.

[0144] Experimental Example 11 (Production of Dent Corn Plants 1) A 12 cm polypot was filled with soil for field crops (Tsuchitarou (registered trademark), manufactured by Sumitomo Forestry Landscaping Co., Ltd.), and the coated dent corn seeds produced in Experimental Example 5 were sown at four seeds per pot. After germination, one plant with uneven growth was thinned out to leave three plants per pot. The plants were cultivated in a glass greenhouse, and 21 days after sowing, the plants were cut 1 cm from the ground and separated into above-ground and underground parts. The underground parts were washed with water to remove the soil. The above-ground and underground parts were each dried at 80°C for two days, and the dry weights were measured. Six replicates were performed to calculate the average. The results are shown in the second row of Table 7. A photograph of the plants 21 days after sowing is shown on the right side of Figure 1 (SF treatment).

[0145]

[0146] [Experimental Example 12] (Production of Dent Corn Plants 2) Dent corn plants were produced in the same manner as in Experimental Example 11, except that the coated dent corn seeds produced in Experimental Example 6 were used instead of the coated dent corn seeds produced in Experimental Example 5, and the dry weights of the above-ground and underground parts were measured. The results are shown in the third row of Table 7.

[0147] Experimental Example 13 (Comparative Example) (Production of Dent Corn Plants 3) Dent corn plants were produced in the same manner as in Experimental Example 11, except that the coated dent corn seeds produced in Experimental Example 7 (Comparative Example) were used instead of the coated dent corn seeds produced in Experimental Example 5, and the dry weights of the above-ground and below-ground parts were measured. The results are shown in the first row of Table 7. A photograph of the plant 21 days after sowing is shown on the left side of Figure 1 (untreated).

[0148] (Reference Example 1: Production of Dent Corn Plants 4) Dent corn plants were produced in the same manner as in Experimental Example 11, except that sterilized soil for field crops treated at 120°C for 2 hours was used instead of the soil for field crops, and the dry weights of the above-ground and below-ground parts were measured. The results are shown in the second row of Table 8. A photograph of the plants 21 days after sowing is shown on the right side of Figure 2 (SF treatment).

[0149]

[0150] (Reference Example 2: Production of Dent Corn Plants 5) Dent corn plants were produced in the same manner as in Experimental Example 12, except that sterilized soil for field crops treated at 120°C for 2 hours was used instead of the soil for field crops, and the dry weights of the above-ground and below-ground parts were measured. The results are shown in the third row of Table 8.

[0151] (Reference Example 3: Production of Dent Corn Plants 6) Dent corn plants were produced in the same manner as in Experimental Example 13 (Comparative Example), except that sterilized soil for field crops treated at 120°C for 2 hours was used instead of the soil for field crops, and the dry weights of the above-ground and below-ground parts were measured. The results are shown in the first row of Table 8. A photograph of the plants 21 days after sowing is shown on the left side of Figure 2 (untreated).

[0152] The results in Table 7 show that when coated dent corn seeds coated with 0.5 g of biosurfactant per ton of seeds were sown in field crop soil, the dry weight of the aboveground parts increased by a statistically significant 16% and the dry weight of the underground parts increased by a statistically significant 16% compared to when coated dent corn seeds coated with 0 g of biosurfactant per ton of seeds were sown. Furthermore, when coated dent corn seeds coated with 100 g of biosurfactant per ton of seeds were sown in field crop soil, the dry weight of the aboveground parts increased by a statistically significant 16% and the dry weight of the underground parts increased by a statistically significant 12% compared to when coated dent corn seeds coated with 0 g of biosurfactant per ton of seeds were sown.

[0153] The results in Table 8 show that when sterilized bed soil prepared by treating bed soil for field crops at 120°C for 2 hours was used instead of the bed soil for field crops, no effect of the biosurfactant was observed. Since the bed soil for field crops contains microorganisms, it was shown that the biosurfactant significantly promotes plant growth through the microorganisms.

[0154] [Experimental Example 14] (Production of Soybean Plants 1) A 12 cm polypot was filled with soil for field crops (Tsuchitarou, manufactured by Sumitomo Forestry Landscaping Co., Ltd.), and the coated soybean seeds produced in Experimental Example 8 were sown at 4 seeds per pot. After germination, one plant with uneven growth was thinned out to leave 3 plants per pot. The plants were cultivated in a glass greenhouse, and 21 days after sowing, the plants were cut 1 cm from the ground and separated into above-ground and underground parts. The underground parts were washed with water to remove the soil. The above-ground and underground parts were each dried at 80°C for 2 days, and the dry weights were measured. Six replicates were performed to calculate the average. The results are shown in the second row of Table 9.

[0155]

[0156] [Experimental Example 15] (Production of Soybean Plants 2) Soybean plants were produced in the same manner as in Experimental Example 14, except that the coated soybean seeds produced in Experimental Example 9 were used instead of the coated soybean seeds produced in Experimental Example 8, and the dry weights of the above-ground and underground parts were measured. The results are shown in the third row of Table 9.

[0157] [Experimental Example 16 (Comparative Example)] (Production of Soybean Plants 3) Soybean plants were produced in the same manner as in Experimental Example 14, except that the coated soybean seeds produced in Experimental Example 10 (Comparative Example) were used instead of the coated soybean seeds produced in Experimental Example 8, and the dry weights of the above-ground and underground parts were measured. The results are shown in the first row of Table 9.

[0158] (Reference Example 4: Production of soybean plants 4) Soybean plants were produced in the same manner as in Experimental Example 14, except that sterilized soil for field crops treated at 120°C for 2 hours was used instead of the soil for field crops, and the dry weights of the above-ground and underground parts were measured. The results are shown in the second row of Table 10.

[0159]

[0160] (Reference Example 5: Production of soybean plants 5) Soybean plants were produced in the same manner as in Experimental Example 15, except that sterilized soil for field crops treated at 120°C for 2 hours was used instead of the soil for field crops, and the dry weights of the above-ground and underground parts were measured. The results are shown in the third row of Table 10.

[0161] (Reference Example 6: Production of soybean plants 6) Soybean plants were produced in the same manner as in Experimental Example 16 (Comparative Example), except that sterilized soil for field crops treated at 120°C for 2 hours was used instead of the soil for field crops, and the dry weights of the above-ground and underground parts were measured. The results are shown in the first row of Table 10.

[0162] The results in Table 9 show that when coated soybean seeds coated with 0.5 g of biosurfactant per ton of seeds were sown in field crop soil, the dry weight of the aboveground parts increased by 7% and the dry weight of the underground parts increased by a statistically significant 14% compared to when coated soybean seeds coated with 0 g of biosurfactant per ton of seeds were sown. Furthermore, when coated soybean seeds coated with 100 g of biosurfactant per ton of seeds were sown in field crop soil, the dry weight of the aboveground parts increased by 7% and the dry weight of the underground parts increased by a statistically significant 19% compared to when coated soybean seeds coated with 0 g of biosurfactant per ton of seeds were sown.

[0163] The results in Table 10 show that when sterilized bed soil prepared by treating bed soil for field crops at 120°C for 2 hours was used instead of the bed soil for field crops, no effect of the biosurfactant was observed. Since the bed soil for field crops contains microorganisms, it was shown that the biosurfactant significantly promotes plant growth through the microorganisms.

[0164] [Experimental Example 17] (Microbiota Analysis 1) A 9 cm polypot was filled with soil for field crops (Tsuchitarou, manufactured by Sumitomo Forestry Landscaping Co., Ltd.), and the coated soybean seeds produced in Experimental Example 9 were sown. The plants were cultivated in a glass greenhouse, and 19 days after sowing, rhizosphere soil (soil attached to the roots in the area indicated by the circle in Figure 3) was collected with a brush. The collected rhizosphere soil was subjected to amplicon sequencing analysis by Seibutsu Giken Co., Ltd., and rhizosphere microorganisms were analyzed. The occupancy rate of each microorganism is shown on the right side of Figure 4 (SF treatment (after cultivation)). The occupancy rate of the microorganisms in the upper part of Figure 4 (indicated by symbol a in Figure 4) is shown in Figure 5.

[0165] [Experimental Example 18] (Microbiota Analysis 2) Analysis of rhizosphere microorganisms was carried out in the same manner as in Experimental Example 17, except that the coated soybean seeds produced in Experimental Example 10 (Comparative Example) were used instead of the coated soybean seeds produced in Experimental Example 9. The occupancy rate of each microorganism is shown in the center of Figure 4 (untreated (after cultivation)). The occupancy rate of the microorganism in the upper part of Figure 4 (indicated by the symbol a in Figure 4) is shown in Figure 5.

[0166] [Experimental Example 19] (Microbiota Analysis 3) Amplicon sequencing analysis by Seibutsu Giken Co., Ltd. was performed on field crop soil (Tsuchitarou, manufactured by Sumitomo Forestry Landscaping Co., Ltd.) to analyze the rhizosphere microorganisms in the soil before cultivation. The occupancy rate of each microorganism is shown on the left side of Figure 4 (soil before cultivation). The occupancy rate of the microorganisms in the upper part of Figure 4 (indicated by symbol a in Figure 4) is shown in Figure 5.

[0167] The results in Figures 4 and 5 show that rare species (e.g., species indicated by symbols b and c in Figure 5) that were contained in the soil for field crops before cultivation and had an occupancy rate of 1% or less proliferated significantly when cultivated using seeds with biosurfactants on their surface.

[0168] Table 11 summarizes the percentage increase in the occupancy of specific microorganisms in Experimental Examples 17 to 19 compared to the untreated control.

[0169]

[0170] The results in Table 11 demonstrate that surfactin has the effect of increasing the occupancy rate of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR). [Experimental Example 20] As shown below, soybeans were subjected to irrigation treatment under Rhizoctonia disease conditions.

[0171] Sterilized barley seeds were inoculated with Rhizoctonia solani and cultured in the dark at 30°C for 10 days to be used as inoculum. The aforementioned inoculum was mixed with Tsuchitaro (manufactured by Sumitomo Forestry Landscaping Co., Ltd.) at a weight ratio of 10% to prepare contaminated soil. Soybean seeds (variety: Fukuyutaka) were sown in the contaminated soil at 10 seeds per pot, with three pots prepared for each treatment area. At the time of sowing, the Trichoderma test area was irrigated with a water-suspended Trichoderma material (Trichoderma harzianum strain T22) at 1250 g / ha. Similarly, the surfactin test plot was irrigated with a surfactin aqueous solution at 25 g / ha, and the Trichoderma + surfactin test plot was irrigated with a water-suspended solution of Trichoderma material (Trichoderma harzianum strain T22) at 1250 g / ha and a surfactin aqueous solution at 25 g / ha. Cultivation was performed in an artificial climate chamber (light period 28°C / 12 hours, dark period 25°C / 12 hours). 11 days after sowing, an evaluation index was calculated using the following criteria, and the disease severity and control value were calculated based on this using the following formula. Table 12 shows the results of the disease severity and control value. A lower disease severity is preferable, and a higher control value is preferable.

[0172] (Evaluation index) 0: Healthy 1: Slight water-soaked browning is observed at the base of the plant 2: Water-soaked browning is observed at the base of the plant, and growth is significantly delayed 3: Dead 4: Damping off before emergence (no germination)

[0173] (Disease severity) Disease severity = [(0 x number of plants) + (1 x number of plants) + (2 x number of plants) + (3 x number of plants) + (4 x number of plants)] / (4 x total number of plants surveyed) x 100

[0174] (Control value) Control value = (1 - disease incidence in treated area / disease incidence in untreated area) x 100

[0175]

[0176] From Table 12, it was found that the Trichoderma + surfactin test plot had a lower disease severity and a higher control value compared to both the Trichoderma test plot and the surfactin test plot. Therefore, this experimental example confirmed the synergistic effect of using Trichoderma and surfactin in combination.

[0177] Experimental Example 21 Potatoes were drenched under normal conditions as follows.

[0178] 9 cm pots were filled with culture soil and one microtuber was planted per pot. Before covering with soil, each treatment group was irrigated with a microbial material, a solution containing Bacillus subtilis (Bacillus bacteria) in water, a solution containing Bacillus subtilis and SF, or water. After covering with soil, the plants were kept in a closed greenhouse set at 24°C / 14 hours during the day and 18°C / 10 hours at night, and the growth status was investigated 19 days after planting. The investigation was carried out by measuring the dry weight of the aboveground and underground parts. The test was repeated 10 times and the average value was calculated.

[0179] Table 13 shows the measurement results of the dry weight of the aboveground parts of Experimental Example 21, and Table 14 shows the measurement results of the dry weight of the underground parts of Experimental Example 21. In Tables 13 and 14, the dry weight of the aboveground parts or the dry weight of the underground parts is shown as a relative value (%) when the dry weight of the aboveground parts or the dry weight of the underground parts of the microtubers to which SF was applied in an amount of 0 g / ha and Bacillus subtilis material was applied in an amount of 0 kg / ha is set to 100.

[0180]

[0181]

[0182] Tables 13 and 14 show that the composition of the present disclosure showed an increase in both above-ground and below-ground dry weight, and had superior growth potential compared to SF alone and the Bacillus subtilis material alone.

[0183] [Experimental Example 22] Potatoes were subjected to drench treatment under salt stress as follows.

[0184] 7.5 cm pots were filled with culture soil, the bottom of which was allowed to absorb a sodium chloride solution, and one microtuber was planted per pot. Before covering with soil, each treatment group was irrigated with a microbial material, a solution containing Bacillus subtilis (Bacillus bacteria) in water, a solution containing Bacillus subtilis and SF, or water. After covering with soil, the plants were kept in a closed greenhouse set at 24°C / 14 hours during the day and 18°C / 10 hours at night, and the growth status was investigated 19 days after planting. The investigation was carried out by measuring the dry weight of the aboveground and underground parts. The test was repeated 10 times and the average value was calculated.

[0185] Table 15 shows the measurement results of the dry weight of the aboveground parts of Experimental Example 22, and Table 16 shows the measurement results of the dry weight of the underground parts of Experimental Example 22. In Tables 15 and 16, the dry weight of the aboveground parts or the dry weight of the underground parts is shown as a relative value (%) when the dry weight of the aboveground parts or the dry weight of the underground parts of the microtubers to which SF was applied in an amount of 0 g / ha and Bacillus subtilis material was applied in an amount of 0 kg / ha is set to 100.

[0186]

[0187]

[0188] Tables 15 and 16 show that the composition of the present disclosure showed an increase in both above-ground and below-ground dry weight, and had superior growth ability compared to SF alone and the Bacillus subtilis material alone, even under salt stress.

[0189] Experimental Example 23 Corn was irrigated under normal conditions as follows.

[0190] 9 cm pots were filled with culture soil, and corn seeds (variety: Snowdent Otoha) were sown one seed per pot. Before covering with soil, each treatment group was irrigated with a microbial material, a Bacillus subtilis (Bacillus bacteria) solution containing SF in water, a solution containing the Bacillus subtilis material and SF, or water. After covering with soil, the plants were kept in a closed greenhouse set at 24°C / 14 hours during the day and 18°C / 10 hours at night, and the growth status was investigated 21 days after planting. The investigation was carried out by measuring the dry weight of the aboveground and underground parts. The test was repeated 12 times and the average value was calculated.

[0191] Table 17 shows the measurement results of the aboveground dry weight of Experimental Example 23, and Table 18 shows the measurement results of the belowground dry weight of Experimental Example 23. In Tables 17 and 18, the aboveground dry weight or belowground dry weight is shown as a relative value (%) when the aboveground dry weight or belowground dry weight of corn to which SF was applied at an amount of 0 g / ha and Bacillus subtilis material was applied at an amount of 0 kg / ha is set to 100. In Tables 17 and 18, "-" indicates a treatment area where no measurement was performed.

[0192]

[0193]

[0194] Tables 17 and 18 show that the composition of the present disclosure showed an increase in both above-ground dry weight and below-ground dry weight, and had superior growth potential compared to SF alone and the Bacillus subtilis material alone.

[0195] [Experimental Example 24] Corn was subjected to irrigation treatment under salt stress conditions as shown below.

[0196] Culture soil was filled into 7.5 cm pots, a sodium chloride solution was allowed to soak into the bottom, and one corn seed (variety: Snowdent Otoha) was sown per pot. Before covering with soil, each treatment group was irrigated with a microbial material containing Bacillus subtilis (Bacillus bacteria), a solution containing SF in water, a solution containing Bacillus subtilis and SF, a solution containing Bacillus subtilis and rhamnolipid, or water. After covering with soil, the plants were kept in a closed greenhouse set at 24°C / 14 hours during the day and 18°C / 10 hours at night, and the growth status was investigated 21 days after planting. The investigation was carried out by measuring the dry weight of the aboveground and belowground parts. The test was repeated 12 times and the average value was calculated.

[0197] Table 19 shows the measurement results of the aboveground dry weight of Experimental Example 24, and Table 20 shows the measurement results of the belowground dry weight of Experimental Example 24. In Tables 19 and 20, the aboveground dry weight or belowground dry weight is shown as a relative value (%) when the aboveground dry weight or belowground dry weight of corn to which SF was applied at an amount of 0 g / ha and Bacillus subtilis material was applied at an amount of 0 kg / ha is set to 100. In Tables 19 and 20, "-" indicates a treatment area where no measurement was performed.

[0198]

[0199]

[0200] Tables 19 and 20 show that the composition of the present disclosure showed an increase in both above-ground and below-ground dry weight, and had superior growth ability compared to SF alone and the Bacillus subtilis material alone, even under salt stress.

[0201] [Experimental Example 25] (Microbiota Analysis 4) A 9 cm polypot was filled with culture soil (Tsuchitarou, manufactured by Sumitomo Forestry Landscaping Co., Ltd.), and corn seeds (variety: Snowdent Otoha) were sown. The surfactin-treated plot was irrigated with an aqueous surfactin solution at 25 g / ha at the time of sowing. Cultivation was carried out in a glass greenhouse, and 19 days after sowing, rhizosphere soil was collected with a brush. The collected rhizosphere soil was subjected to amplicon sequencing analysis by Seibutsu Giken Co., Ltd., and rhizosphere microorganisms were analyzed. Table 21 shows the measurement results of the occupancy rate of each microorganism.

[0202]

[0203] As an example, an increase in the occupancy rate of Bacillus was confirmed from Table 21. Specifically, the occupancy rate in the untreated area was 0.04%, while in the surfactin-treated area it was 0.1%, an increase of approximately 2.4 times.

[0204] The upper and / or lower limits of the numerical ranges described herein can be arbitrarily combined to define a preferred range. For example, the upper and lower limits of the numerical ranges can be arbitrarily combined to define a preferred range, the upper limits of the numerical ranges can be arbitrarily combined to define a preferred range, and the lower limits of the numerical ranges can be arbitrarily combined to define a preferred range. Furthermore, in this application, numerical ranges expressed using the symbol "to" include the numerical values ​​written before and after the symbol "to" as the upper and lower limits, respectively.

[0205] Although the present embodiment has been described in detail above, the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment, and any design changes that do not deviate from the gist of the present disclosure are also included in the present disclosure. All publications, patents, and patent applications cited in this specification are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

Claims

1. An agricultural composition comprising a biosurfactant and a microbial agent.

2. The agricultural composition according to claim 1, wherein the mass ratio of the biosurfactant to the microbial material is 1:50 to 1:20,000.

3. The agricultural composition according to claim 1, wherein the biosurfactant is at least one biosurfactant selected from surfactin, rhamnolipid, sophorolipid, and salts thereof.

4. The agricultural composition according to claim 1, wherein the microbial material is a mycorrhizal material or a Bacillus subtilis material.

5. A seed composition comprising a seed, a biosurfactant and a microbial material.

6. The seed composition according to claim 5, wherein the mass ratio of the biosurfactant to the microbial material is 1:50 to 1:20,000.

7. The seed composition according to claim 5, wherein the biosurfactant is at least one biosurfactant selected from surfactin, rhamnolipid, sophorolipid, and salts thereof.

8. The seed composition of claim 5, wherein the microbial material is a mycorrhizal material or a Bacillus subtilis material.

9. A method for promoting plant growth, which comprises applying a biosurfactant and a microbial material to plants.

10. The plant growth promoting method according to claim 9, wherein the mass ratio of the biosurfactant to the microbial material is 1:50 to 1:20,000.

11. The plant growth promoting method according to claim 9, wherein the biosurfactant is at least one biosurfactant selected from surfactin, rhamnolipid, sophorolipid, and salts thereof.

12. The plant growth promoting method according to claim 9, wherein the microbial material is a mycorrhizal fungus material or a Bacillus subtilis material.

13. A soil improvement method that involves applying biosurfactants and microbial materials to the soil.

14. The soil improvement method according to claim 13, wherein the mass ratio of the biosurfactant to the microbial material is 1:50 to 1:20,000.

15. The soil improvement method according to claim 13, wherein the biosurfactant is at least one biosurfactant selected from surfactin, rhamnolipid, sophorolipid, and salts thereof.

16. The soil improvement method according to claim 13, wherein the microbial material is a mycorrhizal fungus material or a Bacillus subtilis material.

Images