The bacterial and fungal strawberry root-associated microbiome in reused peat-based substrate.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Reuse of plant growing substrate can contribute to lowering the carbon footprint of horticulture production systems. Here, we assessed the impact of substrate reusing on the root-associated microbiome of strawberries. The cultivars Elsanta and Malling Centenary were grown in a substrate-based hydroponic system using either fresh peat-based substrate or substrate reused up to three times, with comparisons made between not steamed and steam-treated substrate. The root-associated microbiome was analyzed using 16S rRNA gene and ITS1 DNA sequencing to determine bacterial and fungal communities.

Results

Substrate reusing without steaming increased the bacterial and fungal community diversity whereas steaming reduced the bacterial diversity and increased fungal diversity

SUBMITTER: Hu X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11849140 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature