Changes in root-associated microbial communities are determined by species-specific plant growth responses to stress and disturbance

► Rhizosphere fungal and bacterial communities were specific for each plant. ► Drought has higher effect on bacterial communities' beta diversity, and correlates with root biomass increase. ► Defoliation has a higher effect on fungal communities' beta diversity and is independent of plant response. ► Plant strategy to cope with defoliation/drought is crucial for microbial communities structure.