In a world where agriculture faces unprecedented challenges, biostimulation emerges as a promising solution. These little-known but powerful substances are changing the way we farm and offer hope for a more sustainable agricultural future.
Modern agriculture faces a number of challenges that threaten its long-term sustainability. The increasing demand for food due to global population growth, coupled with the effects of climate change, places great pressure on agricultural systems. In addition, the excessive use of agrochemicals and chemical fertilizers has caused significant damage to ecosystems and soil health. In this context, the search for innovative solutions is more urgent than ever.
What is biostimulation?
The first time the term biostimulant was defined, it was in 1997 in a magazine dedicated to turfgrass maintenance professionals. There, special importance was given to the fact that only minute quantities were needed to promote plant growth. The authors intended to differentiate biostimulants from nutritional or soil amendments, which are applied in large quantities.
Subsequently, in 2015, Dr. Patrick du Jardin proposed a new definition, which is still in force today as it is considered the most widely accepted and distributed internationally. It defines the biostimulant concept as natural or synthetic substances/molecules that applied alone or in mixtures on plants, seeds or roots act on plant physiology in different ways and by different routes to improve crop vigor, yield and crop quality, improving nutrient availability, optimizing their absorption, or increasing tolerance to abiotic stress, regardless of their nutritional content (Du Jardin, P. el al. 2015).
These substances can be derived from natural sources or chemically synthesized, and can be applied by foliar, root or even seed treatments.
Biostimulants complement fertilizers; the use of one does not replace the other. Fertilizer provides nutrients and/or improves nutritional efficiency, while biostimulants stimulate plant nutrition processes with the aim of improving one or more characteristics of the plant and its rhizosphere.
Diversity of biostimulants
The range of biostimulants available on the market is wide and diverse. From amino acids and peptides to algae extracts and microorganisms such as fungi and PGPR bacteria, these products offer a wide variety of crop benefits. For example, amino acids can improve nutrient uptake and photosynthesis, while algae extracts can stimulate root growth and increase disease resistance. Microorganisms, on the other hand, can establish beneficial symbioses with plants, improving their health and productivity.
How does biostimulation impact the agriculture of the future?
Biostimulants are paving the way for more sustainable and efficient agriculture. By reducing dependence on agrochemicals and chemical fertilizers, these products help mitigate negative impacts on the environment and human health. In addition, by promoting a holistic approach to plant health, they contribute to balance and efficiency in the use of agricultural resources. This is especially important in a context of climate change, where environmental conditions may become increasingly unpredictable and adverse.
Biostimulants represent a unique opportunity to transform agriculture. By offering innovative solutions to today’s challenges, these products are revolutionizing the way we grow our food. It is time to embrace this new vision and work together toward a more sustainable and prosperous agricultural future. At Lainco, we are committed to being part of this green revolution, promoting the responsible and effective use of biostimulants for the benefit of farmers and the planet.
