Harnessing belowground processes for sustainable intensification of agricultural systems

Increasing food demand coupled with climate change pose a great challenge to agricultural systems. In this review we summarize recent advances in our knowledge of how plants, together with their associated microbiota, shape rhizosphere processes. We address (molecular) mechanisms operating at the plant-microbe-soil interface and aim to link this knowledge with actual and potential avenues for intensifying agricultural systems, while at the same time reducing irrigation water, fertilizer inputs and pesticide use. Combining in-depth knowledge about above and belowground plant traits will not only significantly advance our mechanistic understanding of involved processes but also allow for more informed decisions regarding agricultural practices and plant breeding. Including belowground plant-soil-microbe interactions in our breeding efforts will help to select crops resilient to abiotic and biotic environmental stresses and ultimately enable us to produce sufficient food in a more sustainable agriculture in the upcoming decades.

Automated summary

This review summarizes recent advances in understanding how plants and their associated microbiota shape rhizosphere processes. It discusses the mechanisms operating at the plant-microbe-soil interface and links this knowledge with approaches to intensify agricultural systems while reducing water, fertilizer, and pesticide use. In-depth knowledge of above and belowground plant traits can improve our understanding of processes and guide agricultural practices and plant breeding efforts.