Applications of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria for increasing crop production and resilience

Sustainable agriculture requires the application of bioinoculants to control plant pests and increase productivity. Thus, plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) have emerged as an alternative solution to the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, which have toxic effects on human health and the environment. In this work, we review the main direct-action mechanisms of PGPR, such as biological nitrogen fixation, solubilization of elements such as phosphorus, zinc, and potassium, and the production of siderophores and phytohormones that stimulate plant growth. In addition, we analyze the indirect mechanisms of plant growth promotion such as antagonism toward phytopathogens. Finally, we explored the applications of PGPR under different abiotic stress conditions and the use of commercial bioinoculants. The present study highlights the importance of applying PGPR as a viable green alternative to improve the production and resilience of crops.