Friendly bacteria improve sustainable strawberry cultivation

Strawberries are a fruit enjoyed worldwide for their sweet taste and versatility. However, their production often relies on the intensive use of chemical fertilizers, which raises environmental and economic concerns. A recent study shows that it is possible to reduce the use of these fertilizers by up to 70% without harming the quality or quantity of strawberries, thanks to the use of natural bacteria.

Researchers tested three types of bacteria: Azospirillum brasilense, Bacillus megaterium, and Brevibacillus fluminis. These microorganisms, applied alone or in combination, stimulate plant growth and improve fruit quality. The results reveal that the combination of Azospirillum brasilense and Brevibacillus fluminis significantly increases the weight, diameter, and proportion of marketable strawberries. Additionally, this method reduces the acidity of the fruits, enhances their sweetness, and increases their phenolic compound content, which are antioxidants beneficial to health.

Economic analysis confirms that this approach is advantageous. By reducing the use of synthetic fertilizers, production costs decrease while maintaining satisfactory yields. The bacteria work by fixing nitrogen from the air and making phosphorus more accessible to plants, which limits the need for chemical inputs.

This solution offers a sustainable alternative for producers. It helps preserve soils, reduce costs, and produce higher-quality strawberries, while meeting consumer expectations and current ecological challenges. A promising advance for more environmentally friendly agriculture.

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Cited Publication

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s42729-026-03177-w

Title: Berry Best Buddies: Friendly Bacteria Enhance Strawberry Production, Quality, and Fertilizer Use Efficiency

Journal: Journal of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Authors: Leandro Israel da Silva; Danilo José Machado de Abreu; Ederson da Conceição Jesus; Elisângela Elena Nunes Carvalho; Marlon Correa Pereira; Anita Fernanda dos Santos Teixeira; Moacir Pasqual; Joyce Dória