Factors impacting the activity of 2,4-diacetylphloroglucinol-producing Pseudomonas fluorescens against take-all of wheat

► We examine factors contributing to the effectiveness of biocontrol of a root disease of wheat. ► Wheat cultivars show differential support of antibiotic production and biocontrol. ► Biocontrol antibiotics can damage wheat roots. ► This study will help improve understanding of disease suppressive soils.