Plant growth-promoting bacteria modulate metabolism and nitrogen accumulation to counteract drought damage in cactus pear plants.

Summary: Farmers need ways to help crops survive dry spells. Scientists tested special "good bacteria" on cactus pear plants to see if they could help them grow with very little water. They found that two types of bacteria worked really well, especially when no extra nitrogen fertilizer was used. These bacteria helped the plants gather the nutrients they needed to stay green and grow strong roots, even when thirsty. This is great news for growing food in dry places without needing expensive fertilizers!