Seed Biopriming Through Beneficial Rhizobacteria for Mitigating Soil-Borne and Seed-Borne Diseases

Abstract

Seed priming enables seed hydration, thereby activating its metabolism without substantial germination. It also assists in rapid germination as well as enhances resistance to both biotic and abiotic stresses. Soilborne pathogens such as Sclerotium rolfsii, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, and Rhizoctonia possess major threat to crop production on a global scale. These pathogens cause diseases at the time of seed germination; hence, seed biopriming approach will be advantageous for early crop protection. Further, seed biopriming also providing greater protection by biocontrol increased adherence to seed surface. Thereby biocontrol agents will be establishing prior to pathogen infection. In this context, seed biopriming is a promising technique in comparison to seed treatment, soil application, and foliar spray, thereby providing a significant contribution to sustainable agriculture. © Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 2019.