In dry inoculation, the beneficial microorganisms are applied to seeds in a dry powder form, often using a seed coating or a dusting process. The inoculant is typically mixed with a carrier material (like clay or talc) to make it easier to apply. The seeds are coated with this dry mixture before planting.

In liquid inoculation, the beneficial microorganisms are suspended in a liquid medium and applied either to the seed or directly to the soil or plant. The liquid inoculant can be sprayed onto the seed before planting or applied to the soil or plants through irrigation or foliar spraying.

In-furrow inoculation involves applying beneficial microorganisms directly into the furrow created when planting seeds.The inoculant is either in liquid or dry form and is applied directly into the soil where the seed is placed, by a specialized in-furrow applicator attached to the planting equipment.