Effect of Piriformospora indica and Azospirillum strains from saline or non-saline soil on mitigation of the effects of NaCl

► Azospirillum strains isolated from saline conditions had higher salt tolerance. ► Salt adapted Azospirillum strains had a higher capacity to alleviate saline stress. ► Piriformospora indica was more tolerant to salt stress than Azospirillum strains. ► Piriformospora indica had a better performance on wheat growth.