Promotion of Maize Growth Using Endophytic Bacteria

Plants deposit various nutrients, cellular metabolites, and organic compounds in the soil near roots, called the rhizosphere. The rhizosphere is colonized by bacterial communities that live and interact with plant roots, and when these bacteria promote benefits to plants, they are called plant growth–promoting rhizobacteria (PGPRs). PGPR can promote plant development through their own metabolism, such as the production of phytohormones, phosphorus solubilization, and nitrogen fixation, or by directly affecting plant metabolism by increasing water and nutrient uptake, improving root development by increasing the enzymatic activities of plants, or helping other beneficial microorganisms improve their actions on plants. They can also suppress the growth of plant pathogens. PGPR can increase soil fertility and productivity, favoring a decrease in the use of chemical fertilizers and negative effects on the environment. The present chapter reviews current studies on the use of PGPR in maize production.