Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and potassium humate (KH) are separately known as significant biostimulants, but their combined effect on plants remains elusive. This study investigated the single and combined roles of AMF and KH on the antioxidant defense system in Russian olive (Elaeagnus angustifoliaL.) leaves. Soil below the seeds was inoculated with indigenous AMF spores (Funneliformis,Claroideoglomus; 500 spores per seed). The KH (1.5 g/ per 1 kg of seed) was applied during sowing. Growth, leaf-water ratio, chlorophyll fluorescence, lipid peroxidation, H(2)O(2)content, antioxidant enzymes, and antioxidant capacity were analyzed in treated and untreated plants. Combined AMF and KH applications had a greater recovery effect on vegetative organ growth than separate treatments. With combined treatment, plants maintained leaf water status and chlorophyll fluorescence, while peroxidation of lipid membranes and H(2)O(2)content was reduced. Moreover, increases in superoxide dismutase and glutathione reductase activity prevented cellular damage from reactive oxygen species. Total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity values were remarkably higher in plants grown under the combined treatment. As a result, compared with their separate applications, a combination of AMF and KH enhanced the antioxidant defense system by increasing antioxidant enzymes and antioxidant capacity and, thus, could be used to enhance plant growth.