Multifunctional Rhizobacterial Consortia Enhance Growth and Yield of Common Bean Across Field Conditions

Abstract

ABSTRACT The common bean holds significant economic and social importance, with Brazil being one of the largest producers and consumers worldwide. Its cultivation requires high soil fertility, leading to the intensive use of mineral fertilizers, with high costs and environmental impacts. An alternative is the application of plant growth‐promoting rhizobacteria, which have the potential to ensure grain yield. The aim of this study was to evaluate the agronomic performance of common beans in response to consortia of multifunctional rhizobacteria. The experiments were conducted using a randomized block design with 22 treatments and four replications. Each treatment consisted of a combination of three PGPR strains, along with zero fertilizer and fertilizer‐only control treatment. Evaluations were carried out at the beginning of flowering and at harvest to assess root system characteristics, shoot development, and yield components. The consortia Rhizobium sp. (PaJuG2R5) +  Bacillus pumilus (BRM063573) +  Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (BRM063574), Rhizobium sp. (PaJuG2R5) +  Bacillus subtilis (BRM067207) +  Bacillus pumilus (BRM067206), and Rhizobium sp. (TilvG1R2) +  Bacillus pumilus (BRM063573) +  Bacillus pumilus (BRM067206) promoted plant growth and development, resulting in increased grain yield. These results offer a sustainable and accessible strategy for family farming, reducing dependence on mineral fertilizers, production costs, and environmental impacts.