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ARS Home » Southeast Area » Auburn, Alabama » Soil Dynamics Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #403098
Research Project: Conservation Systems to Improve Production Efficiency, Reduce Risk, and Promote Sustainability

Location: Soil Dynamics Research

Title: PGPR-based formulations: lab to field optimization for better efficacy

Author
item Adesemoye, Anthony
item AKINRINLOLA, R - University Of Nebraska
item PARIKH, L - University Of Nebraska

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 3/10/2023
Publication Date: 5/29/2023
Citation: Adesemoye, A.O., Akinrinlola, R.J., Parikh, L. 2023. PGPR-based formulations: lab to field optimization for better efficacy [abstract]. 12th International PGPR Workshop which will be held in Tolouse, France May 29 to June 2, 2023.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Agricultural products based on PGPR have grown rapidly in the last decade because of stakeholders’ interests in foods that are free of chemical residues, in reducing chemical inputs and their negative environmental impacts, and in improving sustainability of soil resources. Acceptance of these products is increasing, but adoption has been comparatively slower with farmers expressing concerns about non-consistent efficacy of most of the products. We evaluated multiple factors that may affect variability of product efficacy from lab to field under different conditions and cropping systems. Many questions, which may help in product development, including strategies that may improve PGPR collection and screening processes were explored. Our results showed trial-to-trial variability in growth promotion by Bacillus strains and biocontrol activities during in vitro and in planta assays did not always correlate. Responses during physiological trait assays such as pathogen growth inhibition, phosphorus solubilization, nitrogen fixation, and protease enzyme, siderophore, chitinase, and biosurfactant production expressed in the laboratory did not reliably predict efficacy in the plant. Thus, in vitro and in planta tests should be considered independently in selecting effective PGPR candidates for commercialization. Adequate understanding of the active ingredients (organisms), especially the conditions that promote vegetative growth or sporulation, was very important. Careful determination of the appropriate application/delivery methods and formulation types is crucial and may be unique. To successfully reduce and supplement the use of chemical inputs, PGPR-based formulations must be developed to be compatible with widely used agrochemicals and farming practices.