Biostimulants for plants

The use of biostimulants in agriculture contributes significantly to environmental sustainability. By enhancing the efficiency of plants to use available nutrients and improving their resistance to stress, these compounds allow for a reduction in the use of harmful agrochemicals. In addition, they encourage greater soil biodiversity, which is essential for maintaining healthy ecological cycles and sustaining the long-term productivity of agricultural fields

Types of Plant Biostimulants

There are several types of biostimulants used in agriculture to improve plant growth and health. Among them, microbial biostimulants, such as beneficial bacteria and fungi, enhance nutrient uptake and protect against pathogens. Another common type is seaweed extracts, rich in minerals, vitamins and natural hormones, which stimulate growth and stress response. These products vary in composition and mechanism of action, but all aim to support optimal plant development. Humic and fulvic acid-based biostimulants are also popular in agriculture. These organic compounds improve soil structure and increase the ability of plants to absorb nutrients. Humic acids, in particular, promote root growth and increase the efficiency of other fertilisers applied to the soil. In addition, biostimulants containing amino acids and peptides promote the synthesis of essential proteins and help plants withstand adverse environmental conditions, such as water or heat stress

Microbial Biostimulants and their Role in Plant Growth

Microbial biostimulants play a crucial role in plant growth by positively influencing soil health and the efficiency of plant nutrient uptake. These microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, form symbiotic associations with plant roots, helping to break down organic matter and convert it into easily accessible nutrients. In addition, some microbes can produce hormones that promote plant growth, which is essential during critical stages of crop development. Additionally, microbial biostimulants improve soil structure, increasing its porosity and water-holding capacity, resulting in a better root environment. This allows plants to better withstand periods of drought and optimise their use of available water and nutrients. These microorganisms can also suppress soil pathogens, reducing the incidence of disease and allowing for healthier and more robust plant growth

Use of Humic and Fulvic Acids in Agriculture

The use of humic and fulvic acids in agriculture represents a technique increasingly valued for its ability to improve soil quality and plant efficiency in nutrient uptake. These acids are organic compounds derived from the decomposition of plant and animal matter, offering benefits such as improved soil structure, increased water retention and activation of plant root systems. In addition, humic and fulvic acids facilitate the availability of nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, which are essential for plant growth. They act by modifying the release of these minerals from the soil, making them more accessible to plants. This action not only enhances plant growth and health, but can also reduce the need for frequent applications of chemical fertilisers, contributing to a more sustainable agriculture that is less dependent on synthetic inputs

Plant Biostimulants and Stress Resistance

Plant biostimulants play a crucial role in improving the stress resistance of plants. These natural or synthetic products promote a more robust root environment and improve the efficiency with which plants use water and nutrients, which is critical under stress conditions such as drought or salinity. The application of biostimulants strengthens plants’ natural defences, enabling them to better withstand environmental adversities and reduce the impact of stress. In addition, biostimulants positively influence disease and pest resistance, optimising overall plant health. By stimulating the production of secondary metabolites that act as natural defenders, these compounds help plants fight infections and biotic attacks. This not only improves plant resilience during periods of stress, but also contributes to maintaining sustainable and economically viable agricultural production by reducing reliance on synthetic pesticides and herbicides

Frequently Asked Questions about Plant Biostimulants

Plant biostimulants are essential for optimising the growth and health of agricultural crops. Here we answer some of the most common questions about their use and benefits, helping you understand how they can transform your farming practice

what exactly are plant biostimulants?

Plant biostimulants are products that are used to promote plant growth without being traditional nutrients, pesticides or fertilisers. They contain substances and micro-organisms that stimulate natural plant processes to improve nutrient uptake, stress tolerance and product quality

how do biostimulants work in plants?

These products improve plant efficiency by increasing metabolic activity and facilitating nutrient uptake through the roots. They also improve plant resistance to abiotics such as drought and temperature extremes, and can increase fruit quality and quantity

what are the main benefits of using biostimulants?

The use of biostimulants brings numerous benefits, including increased water and nutrient use efficiency, improved resistance to environmental stress, increased fruit quality and overall more vigorous growth. These effects contribute to a more sustainable and productive agriculture.