What are Biologicals?
Biologicals are found in nature. They are living microorganisms derived from plant extracts that are fungal or bacterial. These microorganisms exist naturally, not formed by any kind of chemical process. They show up only when the conditions are just right for their growth. These microorganisms, which can also be referred to as bacteria, are very similar to the bacteria in the yogurt we eat. In the same way those bacteria are beneficial to human health, they have much of the same effect on the health of plants.
Biologicals have shown their ability to significantly improve the health of plants. The bacteria boost plant’s immune systems by producing metabolites of a fungicidal nature. This gives plants the ability to survive in conditions that might otherwise kill them. Biologicals have also been shown to create a defense barrier around a plant’s root system that doesn’t allow the plant tissues to ever be reached by pathogens. Both of these responses greatly improve the strength and health of plants.
How are Biologicals Applied?
Biologicals can be applied in a multitude of ways. They can be applied directly in the row as an in-furrow application, sprayed over the top as a foliar application, or applied to a dry fertilizer.
What are the Benefits?
Biologicals have demonstrated over and over again the ability to improve the health of a plant. Healthier plants produce higher yields, earning a grower more money. Biologicals have also demonstrated the ability to suppress soil borne disease, such as Sudden Death Syndrome in soybeans by suppressing nematodes and fungal pathogens.