The more we learn about how soils work, the more we realize the how major a role microorganisms play in them. The concept of microbiome, that is, the groups of microorganisms and the relationships that form an intrinsic part of the soils,has come to the fore over the last few decades and is opening doors to a substantial improvement in the health and fertility in the plants we grow. This can be seen especially in citric fruit.
From the microbiome to biofertilizers
Although the soil may seem to be little more than a pile of earth, the truth is that there is a very complex group of living things inhabiting it, one which is essential for the health of the plants that grow there. This group is known as a microbiota and together with the biological relationships that take place, this invisible world, called a microbiome, and what goes on in it, determines how critic fruit will grow.
This world is made up of all types of microscopic organisms: bacteria, fungi, algae, and protozoans, among others. These microorganisms directly affect the soil composition when it comes to nutrients, the physical and chemical characteristics of the soil and the growth capacity of the roots and whether the rest of the plant is stimulated.
They also..
- Regulate the processing of the organic matter of the soil, capturing greenhouse-effect produced carbon and gas
- Provide a microatmosphere where different microbial interactions take place, which can have a positive effect on plant growth
- Participate in the nutrient cycle, helping in their assimilation
This last property is what allows for them to be used as biofertilisers.
A biofertilizer, unlike conventional biofertilizers, which makes the most of the ability of microorganisms to provide nutrients to the plant,fixing nitrogen or mobilizing salts necessary for plant nutrition.
- They substitute the need to use conventional composts
- Reduce contamination of soils and water sources
- Provide made-to-measure regulated, adapted nutrition
- They are ecological and precise. They do not have a negative impact on the environment
Products such as Bulhnova use specially selected prepared microorganisms to provide these benefits for lemon, orange, grapefruit and other citric fruits. This solution can be applied to all fruit trees and other crops, but particularly good results have been found with citric fruits.
Bio-stimulators for citric fruit crops
Besides their ability as biofertilizers, the soil’s microbiota plays an important role as a bio-stimulator in plants. These microorganisms stimulate the production of phytohormones which increase growth, health and defenses of the plant.
This leads to more productive, resistant crops, which means better harvests, both in quantity and quality. An example of this bio-stimulating function can be seen in the PGPR microorganisms that Bulhnova contains, which, apart from helping with nutrition, also stimulate their growth.
These organisms:
- Help to adjust the absorption and assimilation of nitrogen
- Regulate the enzymes involved
- Act in the nitrogen absorption route from the roots
- Increase the microbiana biomasa
The comprehensive solution for the soil
All together, in the farming of citric fruit, microorganisms provide a comprehensive solution with an endless list of benefits, starting with an improvement in the soils and plant health which also:
- Improves plant productivity
- Increases nutrient uptake
- Stimulates plant growth and defenses
- Lessens the impact of biotic and abiotic stress
- Is ecological
- Provides more profitable, sustainable crops
- Helps to prevent soil degradation and erosio
As alternatives in citric fruit farming, microorganisms have become an essential option when looking for comprehensive solutions. . They are solutions which improve crop health and ultimately people’s health. A health which begins in the soil.
