Integrated use of Consortia-based Microbial Inoculants and Nutrient Complex Stimulates the Rhizosphere Microbiome and Soybean Productivity

Abstract

Background: The effectiveness of soybean inoculants in field conditions may be improved through the joint application of rhizobia and plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB). Plant nutrients may also contribute to the higher efficacy of microbial inoculants as well as the growth and development of plants. Methods: A field experiment was performed to evaluate the responses of the rhizomicrobiome and soybean to seed treatments with multiple bacterial strains (Bradyrhizobium japonicum, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus megaterium and Azotobacter chroococcum), applied individually or in consortia, with and without nutrient complex (S, Mg, Mn, Fe, Zn, Cu, B and Mo).