Abstract

Proper usage of useful microbes in seeds or soil is necessary for their better effectiveness and function. Various methods like application in soil, inoculation with seeds, foliar spraying, and seed coating are also used. However, increasing concern on microbial viability at seed levels reveals that doing research on potential methods that guarantee survival and colonization of seeds by microorganisms is of great significance. Trichoderma species stimulate and increase plant growth by special mechanisms including biological control of soil diseases by production and activity of enzymes, production of antibiotics, and penetration into the body of pathogenic fungi. Moreover, Trichoderma, as the most common saprophytic fungi in the rhizosphere, acts as a parasitic fungus for other fungi and can help plants overcome abiotic stresses such as drought, salinity, cold, and heat. Accessibility of these fungi to insoluble nutrients in soil leaves some indirect effects on the plants and has a direct effect on them due to their ability to absorb more nutrients. Trichoderma which is able to fight pathogens biologically increases nutrient uptake, enhances plant growth and strength, and makes it resistant against pathogens. However, some studies have shown that Trichoderma has positive effects on plant growth. Generally, Trichoderma is useful for agriculture specifically acts as biological control agents against a wide range of plant pathogens to improve plant’s growth capacity. Due to the increasing significance of using biological fertilizers to achieve sustainable agriculture, it is attempted in this study to evaluate the potential of Trichoderma in improving plant growth and productivity and its role in tolerating biotic and abiotic stresses. © 2022 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.