Deploying microscopic organisms to increase horticulture yields

Scientists are investigating whether root systems packed with certain combinations of tiny living things – or microbiomes – result in a more productive plant with the aim of developing new products to increase yield. The $1.4M, four-year project is being delivered through Hort Innovation and led by Murdoch University with co-investment from the CRC for Future Food Systems. Using advanced computer technology, the researchers will identify a range of microbes associated with healthier, higher-yielding plants to select combinations that exhibit higher tolerances to stresses and develop these into new products that increase crop yield and therefore profitability of annual and perennial Australian horticultural crops. Once collections of beneficial microbes are developed based on a sequence data-driven approach, they will be demonstrated at field sites, allowing for extension and training activities with growers. Hort Innovation chief executive officer Brett Fifield said developing new microbiome-based products could bring immediate and widespread benefit to horticulture growers across the country. “Making the growing of fruit, vegetables and nuts more efficient for growers is a priority for a lot of horticulture industries,” he said.