Effects of Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria on Plant Traits Enhancing Growth through Improved Nutrient Uptake

Abstract

Sustainable agriculture its main challenge is to increase crop yields in an environmental-friendly way. Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPRs) have emerged as a promising solution to stimulate plant growth, without using chemical fertilizers. This review gives an insight in the influence of PGPRs on plant traits that enhance growth through improved nutrient uptake. PGPRs interact with plants through multiple mechanisms, including modulation of root architecture by either directly or indirectly activating plant hormonal pathways, such as auxin-, cytokinin-, ethylene- and gibberellin pathways and direct facilitation of nutrient uptake processes such as nitrogen fixation and phosphorus-, iron- and potassium mobilization. These interactions improve root development, increase nutrient availability, and ultimately boost crop productivity. Despite these benefits, the effectiveness of PGPRs is influenced by environmental conditions, soil composition, and plant species-specific responses. Further research is needed to optimize plant-microbe interactions, develop robust PGPR inoculants, and integrate these microbes into sustainable agriculture. By overcoming these hurdles, the use of chemical fertilizers in agriculture can be reduced and global food production in an environmental-friendly manner can be realized.