The present invention relates to compositions and methods for the production of Betaine lipids. The methods of the present invention comprise the expression of recombinant enzymes (e.g. from Rhodobacter sphaeroides) in host cells (e.g. bacteria, yeast, and plants) to produce Betaine lipid compounds including, but not limited to, Diacylglyceryl-O-4'-(N,N,N,-trimethyl) homoserine (DGTS). The methods and compositions of the present invention may be utilized such that the amount of phosphate containing fertilizer required for the growth of a particular plant is decreased.