Application of phosphate-solubilizing bacteria for enhancing bioavailability and phytoextraction of cadmium (Cd) from polluted soil

► We used a phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB) to enhance the Cd-phytoextraction. ► Bacillus megaterium inoculation increased the bioavailability of Cd and plant biomass. ► The inoculation with B. megaterium significantly increased the Cd uptake by plants. ► PSB may be an important bioresource to solubilize the insoluble Cd compound in soil.