Sunflower inoculation with Azospirillum and other plant growth promoting rhizobacteria

The bacterial microflora from sunflower rhizosphere (Helianthus annuus L.) and one strain of Azospirillum lipoferum of a different origin were screened for their ability to promote sunflower growth in a 6-day germination test and in pot experiments. Two Azospirillum lipoferum strains and one Xanthomonas maltophilia strain produced the best responses. These strains were chosen for field testing.