While soilless farming like hydroponics is a great way to save space and water, the authors explain that removing the soil matrix creates unique hurdles, such as the need for precise nutrient management and a lack of natural defenses against disease. The researchers point out that plant growth-promoting microorganisms (PGPM) are emerging as a powerful solution to bridge this gap.
According to the study, well-known bacteria like Bacillus, Pseudomonas, and Azospirillum can actually reshape a plant’s root structure, making it more efficient at absorbing nutrients even in water-based environments.
The authors highlight that these microbes can act as a “rescue” system, helping plants survive high salinity or nutrient deficiencies that would otherwise ruin a crop. Furthermore, they note that certain fungi, like Trichoderma, serve as natural bodyguards in hydroponic systems by attacking pathogens directly and triggering the plant’s own immune system.
In aquaponic setups—where fish and plants grow together in a shared loop—the researchers found that adding specific beneficial bacteria can actually increase dissolved oxygen and improve water quality, benefiting the metabolism of both the plants and the fish.
Ultimately, the authors conclude that because these microbes react differently depending on the specific growing media used, success depends on a tailored approach. They argue that mastering these microscopic partnerships is essential for making soil-free farming a reliable and sustainable pillar of global food production.
Learn more about this study here: https://doi.org/10.3390/su15075959
Reference:
Mourouzidou, S., Ntinas, G. K., Tsaballa, A., & Monokrousos, N. (2023). Introducing the Power of Plant Growth Promoting Microorganisms in Soilless Systems: A Promising Alternative for Sustainable Agriculture. Sustainability, 15(7), 5959.