Biostimulant

A biostimulant is any substance or microorganism applied to plants with the aim to enhance the nutrient uptake, nutrient use efficiency, tolerance to abiotic stress, and/or crop quality, regardless of its nutrient content. Unlike fertilizers which primarily supply nutrients, biostimulants work by affecting plant physiological processes to boost growth and resilience. They can be derived from various sources, including plant extracts, seaweed extracts, humic and fulvic acids, chitosan, beneficial microorganisms, and amino acids. The modes of action are diverse and complex, often involving modulation of hormone pathways, stress response mechanisms, and nutrient transport. Regulatory definitions vary globally, but the focus is on the beneficial impact on plant health and productivity rather than direct nutrient provision. They offer a sustainable approach to agriculture, reducing reliance on synthetic inputs and promoting environmental benefits.

Biostimulant meaning with examples

• A farmer applied a seaweed extract biostimulant to his tomato plants to enhance their tolerance to drought conditions, leading to improved fruit yield and quality. The seaweed biostimulant stimulated root development, enabling better water absorption. This resulted in the plants exhibiting increased resilience against water stress, which is crucial during hot weather.
• Researchers are evaluating a microbial biostimulant to improve nutrient use efficiency in rice cultivation. This biostimulant aids in nitrogen fixation and phosphorus solubilization, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers. This approach aims to enhance grain yield and promote sustainability by minimizing environmental impact in the rice fields.
• A viticulturist used a humic acid biostimulant on grapevines to improve the uptake of essential micronutrients. The biostimulant improved soil structure to boost nutrient uptake, increasing the Brix content and enhancing grape quality. This leads to the production of more flavorful wine grapes which improves the market value.
• An agronomist is testing a plant-derived amino acid biostimulant to mitigate the negative effects of salinity stress in corn. The biostimulant helps maintain cellular turgor and protect against osmotic stress to enhance crop productivity. This intervention is aimed to increase crop yields by counteracting environmental challenges.
• A company introduced a chitosan-based biostimulant to enhance the disease resistance in various vegetable crops. This biostimulant can activate the plant's defense mechanisms. The biostimulant triggers the plant's own immune system. Results are improved plant health and reduced reliance on chemical pesticides.