Abstract
Phosphorus utilization by crop plants is often limited, thereby resulting in large accumulations of residual phosphorus fertilizer in the soil. Trichoderma fungi function as natural decomposition agents that can contribute to increasing decomposition and promoting nutrient absorption in plants. In this study, we developed a novel fertilizer application strategy that reduces phosphate fertilizer and increases Trichoderma and examined its effects on the growth, nutrient absorption, and fruit quality of pepper (Capsicum annuum L.). We compared the efficacies of eight treatments: P100 = standard dose application of phosphorus fertilizer; P85 = 85% dose; P70 = 70% dose; P0 = no phosphorus fertilizer; and the TP100, TP85, TP70, and TP0 treatments, in which a Trichoderma mixture was added to the P100, P85, P70, and P0 treatments, respectively. The combined fertilizer application strategy stimulated plant growth, increased chlorophyll content, improved yield, and enhanced nutrient absorption. Additionally, the strategy improved pepper fruit quality by increasing the contents of soluble proteins, soluble sugars, vitamin C, capsaicin, and capsanthin. A comprehensive analysis indicated that the TP85 treatment was the optimal fertilization regime for pepper. This study provides a novel fertilizer application strategy for pepper that not only ensures good plant growth but also protects soil health.