Microorganisms in agriculture: what they are, how they act and why they make a difference

In recent years, agriculture has undergone a profound transformation. From a model based on the intensive use of fertilisers and pesticides, it is moving towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly approach. In this context, the useful agricultural micro-organisms are revolutionising crop management, offering natural and effective solutions to nourish, protect and regenerate the soil.

In this article we see what they are, how they act and why the beneficial fungi and soil bacteria represent one of the most promising frontiers of agricultural microbiology and the biocontrol.

What are micro-organisms in agriculture

Beneficial micro-organisms are bacteria, fungi and yeasts naturally present in the soil which, if applied correctly, positively interact with plant roots. Unlike pathogenic microorganisms, which cause disease, these organisms promote plant growthincrease resistance to stress and protect against infection.

The main categories of useful agricultural micro-organisms:

• Mycorrhizassymbiont fungi that bind to the roots and improve the uptake of phosphorus, nitrogen and water.
• Trichoderma spp.: beneficial fungi that act as biocontrollers against fungal soil pathogens.
• PGPR bacteria (Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria)plant growth-promoting bacteria (e.g. Bacillus spp., Pseudomonas spp.).
• Microbial antagonistsorganisms that compete with pathogens for space and nutrients, hindering their development.
• Nematophagous micro-organismssuch as Pochonia chlamydosporia, capable of attacking nematode eggs.

How micro-organisms act in agricultural soil

The effectiveness of beneficial microorganisms is based on several mechanisms of action, making them strategic allies for modern, sustainable agriculture.

1. Root symbiosis and nutritional improvement

Mycorrhizae and Trichoderma settle in the rhizosphere and form a mycelial network that extends the absorbent surface of the roots. This allows the plant to absorb more nutrients and water, even in poor or arid soils.

2. Natural biocontrol of pathogens

Trichoderma, Bacillus and other natural antagonists fight soil pathogens such as Fusarium, Pythium, Rhizoctonia and Sclerotinia. They act through:

• Antibiosis (production of antifungal substances)
• Competition for space
• Mycolysis (direct destruction of pathogens)

3. Growth stimulation and phytohormone production

Some micro-organisms release auxins, cytokinins and gibberellins which accelerate vegetative development, improve flowering and increase production.

4. Induction of systemic resistance

Some strains induce 'preventive' resistance to attacks in plants, similar to a natural vaccination. Plants treated with these micro-organisms defend themselves better against biotic and abiotic stresses.

Why they really make a difference

The use of products based on Trichoderma and other beneficial fungi is not just a green fashion, but a concrete technical solution with visible effects in the field.

Increased yield

Healthier plants with more developed roots produce more and more stably, even under unfavourable environmental conditions.

Improved fertiliser efficiency

Symbiosis with micro-organisms allows a more efficient use of nutrients, reducing the need for chemical fertilisers.

Integrated pest management and less pesticides

Micro-organisms can be included in the integrated pest managementreducing the use of fungicides and chemical nematicides.

Soil Health

They regenerate microbial life in the soil and contribute to a more stable, fertile and resilient structure.

Compatibility with agriculture integrated and biological

Many microbiological formulations are allowed in organic specifications and integrated, responding to the most current market requirements.

When to use them and in which crops

Useful microorganisms can be applied:

• Seeding (root inoculum)
• During transplantation
• In fertigation
• Foliar (in some cases, for specific strains)

They are particularly effective in:

• Horticulture (tomato, lettuce, courgette, aubergine)
• Cereals (maize, hard and soft wheat)
• Orchards and vineyards
• Industrial crops (rapeseed, sunflower, beet)
• Nurseries and greenhouses

MS Biotech's microbiological products

At MS Biotechwe study the microorganisms in our microbiology laboratory and develop highly specialised solutions for technical and professional agriculture. Our products are the result of years of research, field tests and close cooperation with farmers and technicians.

Here are some of our most popular formulations:

• Tricotech → product based on Trichoderma harzianum is ideal for improving root development and preventing pathogenic soil fungi.
• Rizotech Plus → root biostimulant with inoculums of mycorrhizae, Trichoderma and bacteria, perfect for localised sowing.
• Botrimax → mixture of Bacillus spp. for biological control of rot and fungal diseases.
• Nematech → microbiological solution based on Pochonia chlamydosporiauseful in the natural control of nematodes.

All our products are compatible with the organic and integrated farmingand can be inserted in customised technical programmesaccording to the crop and the needs of the farm.

Conclusion: agricultural microbiology is the present of sustainable agriculture

At a time when the market demands quality, traceability and reduced environmental impact, Relying on useful agricultural microorganisms is a technical and strategic choice. Companies that adopt microbiological solutions see concrete improvements: more fertile soils, healthier plants and more stable production.

If you want to find out which micro-organisms are best suited to your crops or receive personalised technical advice, contact usOur team is here to guide you towards more effective, sustainable and profitable agronomic management.

🌱 Visit the site 👉 www.msbiotech.net