Cuando el agua se acumula, el equilibrio biológico del suelo cambia. Y en ese cambio, los cultivos pueden quedar expuestos. 

¿Qué ocurre en el suelo cuando llueve en exceso? 

Un periodo prolongado de lluvias como el que estamos viviendo puede tener numerosas consecuencias: 

• Asfixia radicular por falta de oxígeno. 

• Mayor movilidad y proliferación de hongos de suelo como Fusarium, Phytophthora o Rhizoctonia. 

• Desajustes en la microbiota beneficiosa. 

• Mayor susceptibilidad del cultivo frente a enfermedades vasculares. 

No se trata solo de “más humedad”, sino de un desequilibrio del ecosistema radicular. 

Ante este contexto, la estrategia no puede limitarse a actuar cuando el problema ya es visible. La clave está en anticiparse y reforzar el sistema desde el suelo.

1. Cuando aumenta la presión de patógenos: biodesinfección selectiva 

En escenarios de alta humedad, los hongos de suelo encuentran el entorno perfecto para activarse y expandirse en nuestros cultivos. La gestión preventiva pasa por reducir esa presión sin destruir la vida microbiana útil, que tantos beneficios aporta a nuestros suelos. 

Aquí cobra sentido una estrategia de biodesinfección selectiva, que permita: 

• Disminuir la carga de patógenos. 

• Favorecer microorganismos beneficiosos. 

• Recuperar el equilibrio biológico tras episodios de estrés. 

Dentro de esta línea de trabajo se enmarca Soil, una solución ECONATUR orientada a preparar el suelo y restablecer su balance natural, actuando como prebiótico y bioprotector. Se trata de una medida perfecta como punto de partida para preparar el terreno antes de siembra o tras periodos de estrés productivo. 

2. Cuando la microbiota se desajusta: reconstruir el ecosistema radicular 

Las lluvias intensas no solo activan patógenos; también alteran las poblaciones microbianas. En muchos casos, los microorganismos beneficiosos disminuyen, dejando espacio a especies oportunistas. 

En estos momentos es fundamental impulsar una estrategia microbiana activa, que: 

• Estimule microbiota beneficiosa. 

• Mejore la competitividad biológica frente a patógenos. 

• Favorezca la biofertilización y el desarrollo radicular. 

En este contexto, soluciones como Metasoil permiten trabajar el suelo desde una perspectiva metabiótica, combinando bioprotección y nutrición en un mismo enfoque. 

El objetivo de esta solución es conseguir una raíz sana rodeada de una barrera natural de microorganismos beneficiosos, actuando como escudo biológico frente a los agentes externos. 

3. Cuando el riesgo es vascular: activar las defensas internas 

En inviernos especialmente lluviosos, muchas enfermedades no solo afectan a la raíz, sino que progresan hacia el sistema vascular de la planta. 

Aquí el enfoque cambia: además de trabajar el suelo, debemos reforzar la capacidad defensiva del propio cultivo. 

La activación de mecanismos como: 

• Resistencia sistémica adquirida. 

• Formación de callosa. 

• Lignificación y desarrollo de papilas. 

permite fortalecer las barreras internas y proteger los haces vasculares. 

En esta línea se integra Fusar 2.0, diseñado para actuar como un verdadero escudo vascular, reforzando la respuesta defensiva del cultivo frente a patógenos persistentes de suelo. 

De la reacción a la estrategia 

Un aumento del estrés hídrico no tiene por qué traducirse en pérdidas, pero sí exige un cambio de estrategia. 

Más que tratar enfermedades, se trata de: 

• Equilibrar el suelo. 

• Fortalecer la rizosfera. 

• Activar defensas naturales. 

• Construir resiliencia. 

La bioprotección ya no es una alternativa: es una herramienta estratégica para enfrentar campañas climáticamente exigentes. 

Porque cuando el agua lo cambia todo, la respuesta empieza bajo nuestros pies. 

La entrada Cómo proteger el suelo tras un invierno especialmente lluvioso  se publicó primero en Econatur.

In this context, targeted biostimulation is an effective strategy for optimising lipogenesis—that is, the synthesis and accumulation of fat in the fruit—especially at key moments in the development of the olive tree.

Understanding the process: When and how is oil formed?

The development of olives is divided into three main phases. During the first two phases, the fruit prioritises cell division and the formation of structural tissues, such as the stone and the embryo. It is not until the third phase, characterised by rapid growth of the pulp (mesocarp), that the cellular machinery responsible for producing oil is activated. This process is called lipogenesis.

This phenomenon occurs mainly between June and September, reaching its peak just before veraison, when the fruit changes colour. During this phase, the physiological balance of the tree is key: any disturbance can compromise lipid accumulation, affecting both the quantity and quality of the oil obtained.

How can biostimulation help?

One of the most effective tools in this regard is e-OLIVE, a solution developed by Econatur based on bioactive compounds such as hydroxybenzoic acids, polyphenols and polyalcohols. Its action is both direct and indirect, focusing on improving the secondary metabolism of the olive tree.

-Hydroxybenzoic acids and hydroxytyrosol: a shield against stress

The hydroxybenzoic acids present in e-Olive have high antioxidant capacity, which is essential for neutralising excess free radicals (ROS) generated during conditions of environmental stress, such as heat waves or water shortages. Hydroxytyrosol, meanwhile, acts as an enzyme protector, preserving the metabolic pathways involved in lipid formation, which translates into greater lipogenesis efficiency.

-Polyphenols: defence and sensory quality

Polyphenols not only strengthen the immune system of olive trees, but also directly influence the organoleptic characteristics of the oil, improving its aroma, flavour, colour and oxidative stability.

-Polyols: efficiency in internal transport

Although they do not directly intervene in fat synthesis, e-Olive polyalcohols promote the movement of photoassimilates from the leaves to the fruit, improving vascularisation and accelerating ripening. This even allows harvesting to be brought forward without compromising yield or the quality of the final oil.

Visible and sustainable results

The application of biostimulant products such as e-OLIVE allows farmers to maintain stable yields even in seasons with climatic stress, making the most of the crop’s genetic potential. Furthermore, by reducing dependence on synthetic inputs and promoting the tree’s natural metabolism, a more sustainable and environmentally friendly model of agriculture is reinforced.

In short, biostimulation is not just a trend, but an essential tool for those seeking modern, efficient olive growing that is adapted to climate change. Investing in technologies such as e-OLIVE means investing in yield, quality and the future.

La entrada Biostimulation of Olive Trees: Key to Increasing Oil Production and Quality se publicó primero en Econatur.

La más enfocada a la nutrición de alta eficiencia es la tecnología ese®, Eficient System Econatur, base de nuestros productos de nutrición avanzada. Una tecnología que nos da un equilibrio óptimo entre dos vías de fertilización a las que añadimos nuestra formulación específica para conseguir el mayor valor añadido posible:

• Orgánica, que mejora la estructura del suelo reduciendo su erosión, regulando su temperatura, incrementando la porosidad, la capacidad para almacenar humedad y favorece la aireación de las raíces y, además, esta formulada para ser el alimento de la microbiota beneficiosa del suelo.

• Mineral, que permite la aplicación económica y precisa de unidades de biofertilizantes, que potencialmente podrán ser asimilados por la planta en momentos precisos según los requerimientos de la fenología.

La tecnología ese® potencia la nutrición vegetal y optimiza el aporte de insumos. Nuestra tecnología aporta una mayor sistemia, absorción de nutrientes y un efecto prebiótico al suelo, reproduciendo las vías naturales de la planta de generación de componentes para mejorar el entorno radicular y liberando C en forma de polisacáridos y ácidos orgánicos desde la cofia de las raíces, apoyando la penetración de las raíces, la resistencia a estrés hídrico y proliferación de microorganismos PGPB.

Al conseguir un desarrollo de las bacterias promotoras del crecimiento vegetal, estamos incrementando la disponibilidad de nutrientes por la producción de enzimas hidrolíticas: solubilización de P, liberación de ácido indolacético, fijación de nitrógeno atmosférico, etc.

Si a esto añadimos además un efecto humectante y surfactante para la distribución de forma homogénea por la superficie de la hoja y una mejor absorción de los nutrientes y compuestos bioactivos, conseguimos una vía de rápida incorporación especialmente efectiva cuando hay bloqueos y, en general, un producto con un altísimo valor añadido que cumple con las demandas más exigentes de aquellos agricultores que quieran llevar sus cultivos al máximo nivel productivo.

La entrada Ese® TECHNOLOGY se publicó primero en Econatur.

Population growth requires more and more food and therefore more agricultural land to produce as much as possible. This increase in agricultural activity leads to an abuse of fertilisers and pesticides. This has led to a replacement of the biological functions of the soil and therefore an increased dependence on external inputs to maintain production levels.

If agricultural management has not been correct, the soil biota is negatively affected, either because the soil pH has been drastically changed, the C/N ratio is altered by the addition of manures and fertilisers, or the number of fungal hyphae is reduced by tillage etc.

Poor soil results in a less productive crop, with less capacity to defend itself against diseases and pests, which leads to an increasingly higher cycle of need for exogenous inputs, gradually increasing soil degradation.

ECONATUR COMMITMENT

At econatur we are very aware of the problems that affect the soil and we have directed much of our efforts to develop technologies and solutions that break this cycle of degradation and allow a long-term regeneration and sustainability of crops. As a result of these efforts our technical solution, SOIL, was born.

Econatur SOIL is a formula of natural origin whose main function is to regenerate agricultural soils that have suffered a high level of productive wear. Moreover, its versatility is exceptional and it fulfils not one but four beneficial objectives for any soil and crop.

Firstly, it is a highly effective fungicide. It has been shown to reduce by 98% the colony-forming units of phytopathogenic fungi of the genus Fusarium, Macrophomina, Phytopthora and Verticilium , among others. It has also been developed to control nematode populations such as Meloidogyne incognita, Pratylenhus sp and Ditylenchus sp, where we have observed up to 88% control of galls and a 90% reduction in vascular wilt.

Its second and third virtues are possibly the most important. Econatur Soil has selective and pre-probiotic capacity , as it protects and increases beneficial microbiota such as Thricoderma spp, Bacillus thuringiensis and other non-pathogenic Actinomycetes while increasing populations of beneficial saprophytic nematodes.

Finally, the formulation of our product gives it BIOSTIMULATING capacities in the early stages of cultivation: it activates root absorption properties and stimulates the primary metabolism of the crop.

Consequently, we transform the challenge of soil degradation into an environment suitable for growing high quality crops without compromising sustainability.

La entrada Soil, the basis of life se publicó primero en Econatur.

Furthermore, the growth in imports from third countries such as Morocco explains the worrying drop in Spanish and EU tomato production that has been experienced in recent years.

At Econatur, we focus our efforts on solving the different problems we encounter in the field. Our innovation department is constantly studying the different possibilities for improvement in each crop, making use of the 3 pillars that support our company: Biostimulation, Biocontrol and Advanced Crop Nutrition.

PRODUCTIVITY INCREASE THROUGH BIOSTIMULATION:

Tomato is one of the many crops where we have focused our efforts to develop and improve our solutions. We have carried out a large number of trials where we have pursued and achieved different objectives: on the one hand, to increase production by increasing both the number of flower buds and weight, and on the other hand, by acting on the productive period of the crop, extending its duration and homogenising the fruit. At the same time, we have managed to increase sugar concentrations with our solutions, resulting in a higher quality solution that is more competitive on the market.

PEST TRIALS

Our most recent lines of research focus on crop protection through the use of basic substances registered with Sanco such as Urtica spp. extract, which has insecticidal, acaricidal and fungicidal properties.

In these trials, we have managed to control pests such as moths with the same efficiency as other chemically synthesised products, while respecting beneficial auxiliary fauna for the crop such as nesidiocoris tenuis (which is a predator of tuta absoluta whitefly and thrips).

Finally, with our technical solutions we are able to create specific strategies that result in both a qualitative and quantitative increase in production, thus being able to adapt to the increasingly stringent conditions dictated by the field.

La entrada Production framework for Spanish industrial tomatoes se publicó primero en Econatur.

e-OLIVE, revaluing olive by-products.

Circular economy, the road to SUSTAINABILITY

The circular economy in agriculture maximises the use of natural resources and minimises the generation of waste and polluting emissions.
In a circular agricultural system, the development of agricultural inputs from plant by-products of the crop itself is encouraged, contributing to the production of healthy and sustainable food, avoiding dependence on polluting chemicals. This is achieved through the use of cutting-edge technologies that make it possible to obtain the active ingredients that promote the development of the crop through “clean” processes.
e-OLIVE arises from a research project carried out over the last three years through which a new circular solution has been developed based on extracts with high antioxidant power, obtained from by-products of olive cultivation, which improves the physiological and hormonal balance of the crop with positive repercussions on the production and yield of woody crops.

e-OLIVE, a commitment to innovation and differentiation

ECONATUR e-OLIVE: description and mode of action

Physiologicalbiostimulant based on polyphenolic compounds obtained through clean extractive technologies for the reuse of plant residues:

• Antioxidant action
  • – Activation of multiple enzymes of the antioxidant defence system
• Action at the complexing level
  • – Increased nutritional assimilation: K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Cu….
  • – Formation of assimilable complexes at no energy cost: ^Fe+2
• Action at the level of hormone regulation
  • – Higher expression of ABA: reduction of evapotranspiration
  • – Autonomous regulation by the plant: higher efficiency

BIOSTIMULANT POWER FROM WASTE VALORISATION

Production increase: fruit weight

Maximum fruit quality: higher yields

Advantages of use:

1. Minimisation of damage due to environmental stress
2. Key nutrient complexing: combating iron chlorosis
3. Superior use of water resources

Instructions for use e-OLIVE

Use during the whole cycle in woody crops, with a minimum of 2 applications during the fruiting phase. No compatibility problems. A minimum consumption of 1.5 l/ha per cycle and year is recommended, increasing the final dosage according to the planting frame and canopy volume of the crop.

• Foliar: 0,5-1,5 ml/l

Dosage to be chosen according to number of applications and volume of broth used.

La entrada e-OLIVE, NEW CIRCULAR BIO-STIMULANT se publicó primero en Econatur.

However, the use of Cu is being restricted by new European directives on mandatory compliance with integrated disease management (Directive 2009/128/EC, article 14) and limitations on Cu doses per area per year (28 kg ha-1 in 7 years). In addition, Cu has been subject to a drastic increase in costs, which means that conventional cupric formulations are no longer considered economical, as they have been until now. For all these reasons, it is vital to research and develop optimal disease control strategies and to search for and validate products that can be an alternative or complement to traditional fungicide-bactericides .

Integrated disease control must be based on a thorough knowledge of the pathosystem, trying to reduce the use of agricultural inputs through optimal decision making. For this, the study of the epidemiology of the disease is of great importance, in addition to knowing the mode of action and the correct dosage and timing of application of the indicated products. Only with a thorough knowledge of both factors can high levels of efficiency in disease control be achieved, reducing farm costs and environmental risks. To achieve this, technical-commercial advisors must be equipped with considerable experience, updating their knowledge through regular training and obtaining information from a large number of successful trials and experiences under different agronomic conditions.

On the other hand, ECONATUR ‘s experience in the use of active ingredients of natural origin has led to the development of formulations such as ACTICUPER, which maximise the virtues of copper to complement conventional phytosanitary products. In this way, the latter can be used at reduced doses without compromising the effectiveness of the application. These results are only possible through high bioactivity of the copper ion, and by approaching the pathogen-host relationship as a complex interaction, where increasing plant resistance is vital for optimal crop development. In turn, this avoids problems of phytosanitary shutdown of crops (causing a reduction in production) and accumulation of residues, both in the crop and in the environment. As a final result, the farmer obtains a tool that is highly contrasted by public and private means, adapting to the remains of modern agriculture, and an option that is less dependent on fluctuations in the price of cupric formulations, without putting the economic viability of his farm at risk.

La entrada Acticuper as an alternative to copper se publicó primero en Econatur.

Furthermore, it is necessary to keep in mind that fertilisers are appropriate only when they are needed, in the right amounts, at the right time and in the right place.

In irrigation application, fertiliser should be applied on the surface of the soil or mulch, as rain or irrigation will move the fertiliser to the roots. Without irrigation or rain , fertiliser can be lost through evaporation into the atmosphere without any benefit to the plant. In foliar treatment, the quality of the application and the quality of the adjuvants used are key to rapid nutritional assimilation.

La entrada how is fertiliser applied? se publicó primero en Econatur.

Nitrogen (N) is a major element in plant nutrition, as it is the nutrient that makes up proteins, nucleic acids, amino acids and chlorophyll. Nitrogen (N) is therefore linked to the vegetative growth of plants.

According to the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations) nitrogen fertilisers account for almost 59% of the total world consumption of mineral fertilisers. The main nitrogen fertilisers used in agriculture are: ammonium sulphate, ammonium nitrate, MAP, DAP and urea. Urea is one of the most widely used nutrients in the world, however, it is also the nutrient that can have the highest nitrogen (N) losses before being absorbed by the crop. In turn, this and other sources of N can lead to contamination of aquifers and can be counterproductive when applied in excess.

La entrada what are the most commonly used fertilisers in agriculture? se publicó primero en Econatur.