Beneficial Microbes in Seed Science

Seed science has undergone transformative advancements through the integration of microbial technologies, with beneficial microorganisms emerging as critical tools for enhancing germination, seedling vigor, and crop resilience. Research demonstrates that microbial treatments improve nutrient uptake, hormonal regulation, and stress tolerance while establishing early symbiotic relationships with plants. This review synthesized recent advances in understanding the roles of beneficial microbes in seed science, focusing on their impact on seed germination, seedling growth, and plant health. We explored the composition and transmission of seed microbiomes, highlighting the vertical transfer of microbes from parent plants to seeds and the influence of environmental factors on microbial community structure. The review also discussed innovative approaches to seed microbiome engineering. Particular attention was given to seed biopriming with plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB), which has shown significant potential in improving germination rates, seedling vigor, and crop productivity. We examined specific microbial strains, such as Trichoderma species and Pseudomonas fluorescens, and their mechanisms of action in enhancing plant performance. The review also addressed the impact of breeding on seed microbiomes and explored emerging research directions, including the development of tailored microbial inoculants and the investigation of intracellular seed bacteria. By synthesizing these findings, this review aimed to provide a comprehensive summary of the current state of seed microbiome research and its implications in seed science for sustainable agriculture.