These tiny soil microbes could rescue crops from salty farmland

Scientists have identified soil microbes that can significantly boost crop resilience in salty farmlands. These bacteria encourage the production of lignin, which fortifies plant roots, making them more resistant to salt stress. Experiments in controlled and open field settings have demonstrated healthier plants and better yields in saline environments. This breakthrough could pave the way for bio-based solutions to enable agriculture on previously unusable, salt-affected soils, potentially transforming land management and food production strategies.