Algae are photosynthetic organisms that are commonly found in oceans, lakes and other aquatic environments. Algae provide several benefits for soil and crop health and can be used as an addition to organic fertilizers, soil improvers and biostimulants. As an abundant and renewable resource, the addition of algae to organic fertilizers contribute to sustainable soil management and reduce the need for mineral fertilizers and pesticides.
The role of algae in soil and crop health
Algae extracts contain a variety of nutrients, including amino acids, carbohydrates, lipids, vitamins, and minerals. Algae-enriched organic fertilizers provide numerous advantages by enhancing soil and crop health, serving as valuable contributors to sustainable agriculture. Here are some examples of the benefits and the mechanisms behind it:
- Soil fertility: Algae, particularly seaweeds like Ascophyllum nodosum, are nutrient-rich, providing a natural reservoir of essential elements such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. These nutrients are vital for robust plant growth and development.
- Soil structure and aeration: Algae contribute to improved soil structure by enhancing water retention and promoting better aeration. This creates an environment conducive to healthy root systems, allowing plants to access nutrients more efficiently.
- Bioactive compounds and plant growth: The bioactive compounds within algae, including phytohormones and antioxidants, act as natural growth regulators. They stimulate various physiological processes in plants, promoting seed germination, root elongation, and overall plant vigor.
- Stress resilience: Algae’s diverse array of compounds help plants withstand environmental stressors such as drought, salinity, and diseases. This stress resilience contributes to increased crop resilience and productivity.
- Microbial partnerships: Algae foster beneficial microbial interactions in the soil. Symbiotic relationships with mycorrhizal fungi and rhizobacteria enhance nutrient cycling and availability, creating a harmonious ecosystem for plant growth.
- Carbon sequestration: Algae is rich in organic compounds and contribute to the organic matter content of the soil. When algae-enriched fertilizers are applied to the soil, the organic matter derived from algae becomes a stable carbon pool, promoting long-term carbon sequestration in the soil.
- Sustainable fertilization: Algae-enriched fertilizers offer a sustainable alternative to synthetic and/or mineral fertilizers. They release nutrients gradually, minimizing environmental impact, reducing nutrient runoff and promoting eco-friendly farming practices.
Application
MeMon can enrich organic fertilizers and soil improvers with algae meal or algae extract to improve soil health and fertility. It is also possible to add algae extract to liquid fertilizers for foliar application. MeMon is using the brown seaweed Ascophyllum nodosum, commonly known as knotted wrack or Norwegian kelp. This brown seaweed is widely recognized for its benefits and is rich in nutrients, bioactive compounds and carbohydrates.
Ascophyllum nodosum