Improve plant and soil health
Sustainable inputs for a profitable future
Biological inputs (also referred to as biostimulants) consist of substances and/or microorganisms that help to activate natural soil and plant processes.
Biological inputs are NOT fertilisers or nutrients or pesticides. They are natural or synthetic substances that enhance plant growth, resilience, and productivity by improving nutrient uptake, stress tolerance, and overall soil and crop health, as opposed to having a direct action on the plant itself.
An ever-increasing range of biostimulant products are now available in the UK. These biological inputs can be applied directly to plants, seeds, or to the soil to help fix atmospheric nitrogen, mobilise soil nutrients, increase plant immunity, and more.
Biological Inputs Guide
Our 16-page practical guide to biological inputs
A practical guide to what biological inputs are, what the independent evidence shows, and how they can work harder on your farm.
As well as understanding the specific activity of the biological input, it’s essential to time the application according to plant growth stage. Mis-timing these products can significantly reduce efficacy and waste both time and money.
Regenerative Agronomist, Terrafarmer
‘Microbial’ or ‘Non-microbial’?
Biological inputs made simple
Biological stimulants can be categorised as either ‘microbial’ or ‘non-microbial’ and products are formulated to perform specific functions when applied to particular crops.
Independent and practical advice
How we can help you
At present, biostimulants do not have to prove evidence of efficacy. Our advice is based on independent trial data and, wherever possible, our own practical experience.
Honest assessments
The misapplication of biostimulants—such as the incorrect timing or the wrong product—is a waste of time and money. We will assess your current soil health status and the cost/benefits before advising the right course of action.
Regenerating soil
We always prioritise regenerative practices like reduced tillage, reduced pesticide, and cover crops. But if the microbiome is degenerated a microbial product might act as a primer to initiate regeneration alongside other methods.
Reduced input costs
It’s important to understand that biostimulants are not nutrients, fertilisers, or pesticides. However, their strategic and targeted use can significantly help improve soil and plant health, reducing reliance on costly agricultural inputs.
