Improving nutrient uptake is crucial for achieving healthier, more abundant crops, and it’s a core strength of EnSoil Algae™. Our unique live algae cells not only attract beneficial microbes that naturally fix nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) into plant-usable forms, but they also engulf and deliver these essential nutrients directly to the plant roots. This direct delivery mechanism is a game-changer for growers aiming to reduce reliance on inputs and lower costs.
Following our discussion last week on the dramatic improvements EnSoil Algae™ brings to phosphorus acquisition (catch up here), this week we’re diving deep into its impact on nitrogen.
For optimal crop and financial management, efficient nitrogen utilization is key. While conventional approaches often emphasize adding more nitrogen, advanced soil testing methods like RhizeBio metagenomics, BeCrop analysis, Haney Soil testing, and PLFA testing are revealing the nitrogen reserves already present in our soils and the native microbial communities, that when simulated, improve cycling and uptake. EnSoil Algae™ is a valuable tool for unlocking this potential as demonstrated in our recent trials.
The Roots to Shoots Trial, utilizing RhizeBio’s metagenomics testing across multiple farms and crops (corn, soybeans, and milo), showcases how EnSoil Algae™ improves key nitrogen cycling metrics. This leads not only to increased nitrogen accumulation in plant tissue for healthier growth but also to the replenishment of nitrogen within the soil. Key findings include:
- 17.4% increase in nodulating bacteria
- 20.6% boost in organic nitrogen breakdown in corn
- Improved denitrification & nutrient movement into the plant tissue
In Southern Valley, GA, BeCrop Analysis revealed a statistically significant 9.54% increase in microbial populations that activated nitrogen pathways on pepper plots treated with EnSoil Algae™.
Similarly, a recent trial with Total Acre grower Mike Jenks demonstrated increased nitrification from the application of EnSoil Algae™, even after reducing nitrogen by 50% based on early-season Haney and PLFA testing.
As soil expert Liz Haney stated, “This improvement is likely due to the EnSoil Algae™ cells changing the microbial structure and improving plant efficiency.”