Why Use a Biological?
Western Canadian agriculture is constantly in need of new innovation and technology to ensure we can continue to grow higher performing crops. Biological products are a new solution that provide opportunity to enhance the natural abilities of the plants as well as the performance of the chemical products we rely on. They can also help ensure our soil will last for future generations and help ensure our valued chemical tools won’t be lost to resistance.
Biological products are formulations derived from living organisms. Naturally occurring micro-organisms, plant extracts, beneficial insects, or other organic matter, make up a diverse group of products that can complement chemical products or stand alone.
Beneficial microorganisms or microbials are generally the key to biologicals for enhancing and protecting crops. Microbials are organisms naturally present in the plant environment or natural habitat: predominantly fungi or bacteria. Beneficial microorganisms take nutrients from the plant root exudes and in return, protect them against pathogens and pests, increase plant root growth, improve soil structure, and enhance nutrient availability, uptake, and use efficiency.
There are three categories of biological:
Biostimulants are products that enhance plant growth, health, and productivity or provide other direct or indirect benefits to a plant’s development.
Biopesticides are products that protect against or are used to directly control fungal and bacterial pathogens, insect pests, or weeds.
Biofertilizers are microbial-based products that are used for fixing nitrogen, to improve nutrient availability and uptake, and to promote plant growth.
There are various biostimulant and biofertilizer products on the market for Western Canada currently, and they could be an important key to enhancing crop production, battling resistance, and ensuring sustainability.
Talk to your Sharpe’s location about the products available to you.