Influence of nitrogen fertilization on photosynthate distribution and utilization by rhizosphere micro-organisms in wheat

Rhizosphere interactions between plants and microbes are to a large degree determined by the supply of carbon from root exudates but the availability of mineral nutrients to microbes and plants is also of importance. Root exudates from maize were found to be utilized more efficiently when a higher level of a mixed mineral fertilizer was given (Merckx et al., 1987).