Role of Endophytes in Patchouli Growth and Development

Endophytes represent significant organisms, which can significantly improve and boost patchouli growth, development, and performance. Beneficial endophytic bacteria and fungi not only contribute to the plant growth; they do this through different mechanisms, for example, nutrient solubilization, nitrogen fixation, synthesis of phytohormones, synthesis of siderophores, and stimulation of root and shoot growth. Their ability to stimulate antioxidant protection and increase resistance to drought, salinity, pathogens, and environmental pressures proves once again all the advantages of using endophytes in sustainable patchouli cultivation. Endophytes are also able to influence secondary metabolic pathways linked to the production of highly effective essential oils and other bioactive compounds. Thus, endophytes can improve the quality and quantity of patchouli oil. However, their efficiency may depend either on some unique microbial strain features, plant genotype, place of cultivation, or soil conditions. Thus, systematic screening and characterization of the most efficient strains of endophytes is complex. Further investigations should be focused on the study of plant-endophytes interactions on molecular and biochemical levels.

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