We know that over fertilization of crops, especially perennial crops, can have both crop and environment consequences. Growers justify overfertilizing as the cost is small compared to a decrease in yields. As a result, more nitrogen is excessively applied than what a crop can metabolize. In addition, the limits placed on nitrogen applications, makes it a scarce resource and perpetuates its excessive use.
It’s documented that excess nitrogen elongates plant cells walls which creates thinner walls. Thinner walls mean greater access for pathogens and pests. There have been numerous studies connecting increased nitrogen fertilization with greater fruit infestation with 56% of the literature showing high nitrogen aggravates the condition and 12% of the literature confirming low potassium aggravates the condition. In Fire Blight on Apples and Pears where infections require presence of bacteria in blossoms, most sources caution that excess N aggravates this disease.
The message is clear, excess nitrogen has some clear negative consequences in regard to amplifying disease and pest pressure. The dilemma is we value our nitrogen applications for crop yield but clearly the data indicates that many growers overfertilize. The solution is the application of biostimulants. Biostimulants increase a crop’s metabolism which allows the plant to do more with less. I just returned from the Biocontrols conference in Portland, Oregon and it was one of the key take-a-ways for me. There was considerable discussion about the introduction of beneficial insects to combat crops pest but there was little discussion about balancing plant nutrition to mitigate infestation. We should start with evaluating mineral excess and deficiencies in the soil or plant. Most of these issues can be clarified using sap analysis testing in order to be more precise in our nutrient management. Andaman Ag provides sap analysis or leaf extract analysis using plant fluid data to make nutrient management decisions.
Biostimulants have other excellent benefits as well including improved crop quality, disease and pest resistance and tolerance of abiotic stresses just name a few.