Citrus rootstocks, like many fruit and nut tree crops, are generated through seed germination, cuttings, or tissue culture. There is generally greater activity and diversity of soil microbes adjacent to plant roots (a zone known as the rhizosphere). While different propagation methods can impact the overall health and growth of roots, there is little information on how these methods influence the development of the rhizosphere microbial community. The Strauss research group, in collaboration with other UF faculty, is examining the interaction between rootstocks, propagation method, and rhizosphere development.