The authors explain that microbial plant biostimulants are an efficient tool in sustainable agriculture because they improve crop productivity and quality by activating a plant’s physiological and molecular processes.
Through the production of phytohormones, these biostimulants regulate plant processes and offer an efficient alternative for the industrial production of these hormones. The researchers point out that the bacterial genus Bacillus includes various species already on the market as biopesticides due to their ability to produce antimicrobial, nematicidal, and insecticidal compounds.
According to the study, the ability of Bacillus to protect plants against pests and pathogens involves triggering or increasing the plant’s own defense responses. The authors highlight that many species in this genus also promote plant growth by increasing host tolerance to abiotic stress and improving plant nutrition.
The researchers emphasize that these responses are often mediated by the bacterial production of phytohormones. This review summarizes recent studies on hormone production by Bacillus, highlighting their role in promoting development and improving the plant’s response to various stresses.
Learn more about the study here: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00253-021-11492-8
Reference:
Poveda, J., & González-Andrés, F. (2021). Bacillus as a source of phytohormones for use in agriculture. Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, 105(23), 8629–8645.