A biostimulant is a substance or microorganism that is applied to plants or soils to enhance plant growth, health, and productivity. It provides essential nutrients to plants, biostimulants work by enhancing the plant's natural processes and increasing its ability to absorb and use nutrients.
Biostimulants promote enhanced germination and root development, leading to increased vigor and greater stress resistance. An enhanced root system promotes more efficient nutrient and water uptake and translocation throughout the growing season.
Promoting growth and improving a plant's metabolism can benefit overall plant growth and health. In addition, providing a catalyst at specific developmental stages can lead to increased yield, improved uniformity and overall crop quality.
Biostimulants generally operate through different mechanisms than standard fertilizers and provide essential nutrients for plant metabolism that stimulate plant growth. These metabolic pathways upregulate gene expression that can have an effect on cell division and sizing, root and shoot growth, and reproductive development and timing.
Some biostimulants are derived from mammalian tissue by-products, including pork and beef material – check that your trade customers or buyers are happy for you to use such materials.
If using a biostimulant containing microorganisms, consider the environment in which they will be used.
Carefully follow product labels for time and rate of application. If necessary, consult a professional agronomist.