Introduction
Modern agriculture faces numerous challenges, including climate change, soil degradation, and over-reliance on synthetic fertilizers. Addressing these issues requires sustainable and eco-friendly approaches that maintain productivity while preserving soil and ecosystem health. Among these, green fertilizers—particularly biofertilizers and biostimulants—play a critical role. These biologically-based inputs enhance nutrient absorption, improve plant resilience to stress, and support long-term soil fertility, making them essential for the transition to sustainable agriculture.
Microbial Biofertilizers and Plant Symbiosis
Biofertilizers consist mainly of beneficial microorganisms such as plant growth-promoting bacteria, mycorrhizal fungi, and free-living fungi. These microbes facilitate the uptake of key nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus, promote plant growth, and enhance tolerance to both biotic and abiotic stress through the production of enzymes, plant hormones, and defense-regulating compounds.
Biostimulants and Their Role in Plant Resilience
Biostimulants include plant-based extracts such as seaweed, protein hydrolysates, flavonoids, and other natural compounds that directly or indirectly support plant health and development. They stimulate root and shoot growth, increase tolerance to drought, salinity, and nutrient deficiency, and boost beneficial microbial activity in the soil. By improving soil biodiversity and microbial balance, biostimulants help create a more resilient agroecosystem.
Protection Against Environmental Stress and Pathogens
Green fertilizers strengthen plant defense systems, increasing resistance to pests, diseases, and environmental stress. These natural solutions offer eco-friendly alternatives to chemical pesticides, supporting crop health without harming the environment. By reducing oxidative stress and improving physiological functions, bio-based inputs contribute to higher yields and better crop quality.
Enhancing Soil Microbiome and Plant Nutrition
The use of biofertilizers improves soil microbial diversity and health, leading to better nutrient cycling and more efficient plant nutrition. Beneficial microorganisms activate soil biology, support the development of healthy root systems, and reduce the need for chemical fertilizers. This dual impact—on both plant and soil—promotes more sustainable and environmentally responsible farming practices.
Conclusion
Green fertilizers and biofertilizers offer a powerful, sustainable pathway for the future of agriculture. Through the use of beneficial microbes and natural compounds, farmers can increase productivity, reduce chemical input, and protect vital resources like soil and water. These inputs not only improve plant resilience and food quality, but also contribute to environmental sustainability. A smart and sustainable agricultural future will depend on the widespread adoption of these biological solutions.
References
Pereira SIA, Aroca R and Cornejo P (2025) Editorial: Use of biostimulants in beneficial plant-microbe interactions. Front. Plant Sci. 16:1592681. doi: 10.3389/fpls.2025.1592681 Soares EV, Petropoulos SA and Soares HMVM (2024) Editorial: Bio-based solutions for sustainable development of agriculture, volume II. Front. Plant Sci. 15:1510226. doi: 10.3389/fpls.2024.1510226
