Summary
This narrative review documents a paradigm shift in agricultural microbiology away from single-strain inoculants towards integrated microbiome-based strategies for sustainable crop production. The authors argue that microbial diversity within consortia is as important as individual growth-promoting traits, and review emerging methodologies for tracking nutrient dynamics across plant-microbiome-soil compartments. The paper advocates for harnessing plant and soil microbiomes as a means to reduce dependence on synthetic pesticides and fertilisers whilst maintaining productivity and restoring soil health.
UK applicability
The microbiome-based approaches reviewed are broadly applicable to UK agriculture, particularly where chemical input reduction and soil health restoration align with environmental regulation and sustainable intensification goals. However, UK-specific validation of microbiome consortia under local pedoclimatic conditions and integration with existing certification schemes (organic, peatland stewardship) would strengthen practical adoption.
Key measures
Not a primary research study; review examines conceptual frameworks, microbiome diversity metrics, plant growth promotion outcomes, nutrient use efficiency, and pest/pathogen control capacity
Outcomes reported
This is a narrative review that synthesises evidence on plant-associated microbiome applications for sustainable agriculture, examining the shift from single-microbe to microbiome-based approaches. The paper discusses functional potential of microbiomes for plant growth promotion, nutrient use efficiency, and biocontrol, and considers methodologies for tracking nutrient flux through plant-microbiome-soil systems.
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