Isolation of root-associated Pseudomonas and Burkholderia spp. with plant growth promoting traits

Novel, root-associated Pseudomonas and Burkholderia strains with plant growth promoting (PGP) traits are being sought for biotechnological application in agriculture. Such strains may be able to protect plants from biotic and/or abiotic stresses, and provide increased nutrient use efficiency. While attempting to isolate root-associated Actinobacteria, we inadvertently isolated strains of Pseudomonas and Burkholderia spp. with desirable PGP phenotypes. The method described may enable targeted biodiscovery of these two important PGP genera for applications in sustainable agriculture.