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Grafting is an excellent tool to investigate shoot signal essential for controlling root nodule numbers and could be used to exploit natural genetic variation for specific root traits to influence the phenotype of the commercial aerial. Landraces can serve as important genetic resources for adaptive traits and be useful in the development of locally adapted high yielding varieties with resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. The aim of this work is to: Study the effects of shoots on autoregulation of nodulation of legume roots interacting with rhizobia; select new rootstock genotypes of common bean landraces from partners’ genebanks, aiming to develop new potential rootstocks with enhanced number of nodules; identify rootstock x scion favourable phenotype combinations of common bean plants for increasing yield, yield stability and quality, compared to control (ungrafted and self-grafted) plants under both conventional and organic sectors and single stressors (e.g. salinity); optimise yields for favourable rootstock x scion x environment combinations through adapting and/or developing management practices for sustainable production.

More information:

• Blog post: "Smart Plants!"
• Blog post: "Rhizobia are key partners for an eco-friendly agriculture"
• Video on Case Study 21