Microbial enhancement of Sesbania sesban (L.) Merr. for efficient heavy metal phytoremediation and soil restoration in crop systems

Abstract

This review explores the multifaceted role of Sesbania sesban (L.) Merr. in improving soil health and boosting agricultural productivity. Soil degradation driven by unsustainable practices and nutrient depletion continues to threaten global food security. As a nitrogen-fixing legume, S. sesban offers a sustainable solution by enhancing soil's physical, chemical and biological properties. It improves soil structure, increases nutrient content and stimulates microbial activity. In rice cultivation, the species serves as an effective green manure, significantly enhancing grain yield by improving nitrogen availability and organic matter content. Its symbiotic associations with rhizobia such as Mesorhizobium, Rhizobium and Sinorhizobium facilitate biological nitrogen fixation. Additionally, the plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) associated with Sesbania enhance nutrient uptake, produce phytohormones and suppresses phytopathogens, further supporting plant growth. Beyond its agricultural benefits, S. sesban shows strong phytoremediation potential, effectively removing heavy metals like cadmium, lead and chromium from contaminated soils and wastewater. Its diverse phytochemical profile also contributes to antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities, highlighting its medicinal value. With its rich nutritional and therapeutic properties, S. sesban emerges as an asset for sustainable agriculture and holistic environmental management.