Host genetic variation can shape the diversity and composition of associated microbiomes, which may reciprocally influence host traits and performance. While the genetic basis of phenotypic diversity of plant populations in nature has been studied, comparatively little research has investigated the genetics of host effects on their associated microbiomes. Switchgrass ( Panicum virgatum ) is a highly outcrossing, perennial, gra...

Summary Understanding the processes guiding microbial community assembly in soils is essential for predicting microbiome structure and function following soil disturbance events like agricultural soil fumigation. However, assembly outcomes are complex and variable, being affected by both selective abiotic forces and by the history of colonizing microorganisms. To untangle the interactions between these factors, we conducted a...

Summary Although plants introduced for site restoration are pre‐selected for specific traits (e.g. trace element bioaccumulation, rapid growth in poor soils), the in situ success of these plants likely depends on the recruitment of appropriate rhizosphere microorganisms from their new environment. We introduced three willow ( S alix spp.) cultivars to a contaminated landfill, and performed soil chemical analyses, plant measure...