6
COLUMNIST
metabolism including auxin-like responses
and increased cytokinin levels.
In addition organic acids in humic substances,
including humic acid, inhibit the precipitation
of calcium phosphate minerals, enhance
phosphorus bioavailability and increase the
availability of especially iron and zinc.
Seaweed extract-based biostimulants on the
other hand influence root development by
endogenous auxins as well as other compounds
in the extracts resulting in improved nutrient
and water uptake hence enhanced plant
growth and vigour.
Cut flower growers may choose a plant
biostimulant from the groups described
above based on the benefits and composition
of the product, mode of action, desired plant
responses, crop conditions among others.
Biostimulants cannot substitute fertilisers
but improve plant mineral uptake efficiency,
enhance plant metabolic processes and stress
tolerance, promote growth and increase crop
yields and quality.
Biostimulant products are therefore not growth
miracles but scientific growth enhancers.
Besides, seaweed contains polysaccharides
especially laminaran which stimulates natural
defence responses in plants.
CROP
PROTECTION
Fungicides
Herbicedes
Insecticides
PGR
CROP
BIOSTIMULATION
Amino Acids
Sea Weeds
Humic Acids
CROP
NUTRITION
Fertilizers
Soil Amendments
Substrates
Biostimulants are complementary to nutrition and crop protection
“Amino acid-based biostimulant products directly play a vital role in nitrogen and
carbon metabolism, and the resistance of plants to abiotic and biotic stress.”
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