Biocoating of Seeds with Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria to Improve Plant Establishment

Abstract

Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPRs) have the potential to contribute significantly to the development of sustainable agricultural systems. Our understanding at the molecular level of the interactions between these microorganisms, the plant and the environment is growing rapidly, facilitating the development of microbial products. However, their development is hampered by the legislative restrictions on their use and consequently high costs. This is especially true because biocontrol agents are often specific to crops, pathogens and soil types. Nevertheless, promising new products for the improvement of plant establishment and plant growth, such as ‘BioCoat ’ for radish seeds, have entered the market.