Microbial biostimulant consortium to enhance drought tolerance and reduce nitrogen needs in turfgrasses
Microbial biostimulant technology using a consortium of Paraburkholderia aspalathi strains to improve drought tolerance and lower nitrogen dependency in Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass. Delivered as a rootzone drench, it suppresses drought-induced stress, supports turf quality under reduced nitrogen, and improves canopy cover, leaf relative water content, chlorophyll content, and root traits. Validated in drought field conditions with reduced nitrogen input.
Overview
This solution presents a microbial biostimulant technology designed to enhance drought tolerance and reduce nitrogen dependency in common lawn species, specifically Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass. By utilizing a consortium of two plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) strains, Paraburkholderia aspalathi WSF14 and WSF23, applied as a rootzone drench, the technology suppresses drought-induced stress and maintains turf quality under low nitrogen conditions. The approach supports more sustainable lawn management.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Utilizes Paraburkholderia aspalathi strains WSF14 and WSF23
- Applied as a rootzone drench at approximately 1.5 x 10^7 CFU
- Degrades ethylene precursor ACC, which is associated with stress-induced turf decline
- Enhances canopy cover, leaf relative water content, chlorophyll content, and root traits
- Validated under drought field conditions with reduced nitrogen input
Applications:
- Suitable for home lawns, particularly Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass
- Effective under drought stress and low nitrogen conditions
Technology readiness level
This microbial biostimulant technology is at Technology Readiness Level 6, having been validated in relevant environmental conditions with a plan for further field trials. Efficacy data and application guidelines are prepared to support commercialization.
About Rutgers University
Rutgers University is a comprehensive public research university and New Jersey’s flagship, spanning campuses in New Brunswick–Piscataway, Newark, and Camden. For industry, it offers an integrated clinical and biomedical enterprise through its health system, a statewide extension network for field deployment, and campus-based incubators and pilot-scale facilities that enable prototyping and scale-up. Companies engage through sponsored research, shared core facilities, professional education, and flexible partnership models supported by corporate engagement teams. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NIH, NSF, DOE, and USDA. A dedicated technology transfer office manages IP, licensing, material transfer, and startup formation, providing clear pathways from lab discovery to market.
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