A Narrative Review: Beneficial Microbes for Enhancing Soil Health and Maize Productivity on Marginal Soils

Maize is a vital food and industrial crop, yet its productivity is limited by marginal soils such as acidic, saline, and degraded lands with nutrient deficiencies and low organic matter. Excessive chemical fertilizer use provides short-term yield benefits but degrades soil quality and reduces microbial diversity, creating the need for sustainable alternatives. This article reviews the role of beneficial microbes in improving soil health and maize productivity. A narrative literature review was conducted using publications from 2020 to 2025 to synthesize relevant data and findings. The results shows that PGPR, AMF, cyanobacteria, and endophytic bacteria enhance nutrient cycling, stimulate root growth, and increase tolerance to drought, salinity, and nutrient stress. Integrated use of microbial inoculants with organic and chemical fertilizers improved soil fertility and raised maize yields by up to 85%. Beneficial microbes therefore offer effective, eco-friendly strategies for resilient and sustainable maize production on marginal soils.