Seaweed-enriched fertilizers

What are Seaweed Fertilizers?

The incorporation of seaweeds in fertilizers represents a significant advancement in agricultural technology. This innovative approach leverages the natural benefits of seaweeds to enhance the effectiveness of NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) fertilizers. Seaweeds, known for their rich nutrient profile and growth-promoting properties, offer a sustainable and efficient solution for modern agriculture.

What are seaweeds:

Seaweeds are algae, specifically, they are macroalgae and despite performing many of the same functions as plants they are not plants. For this reason, sometimes see seaweed referred to as non-vascular plants but unlike plants, these species absorb nutrients which they use for photosynthesis directly through their cell walls. They also lack stems, roots, xylems and many other specialized plant structures. Seaweeds are rich in nutrients, bioactive compounds and natural growth stimulants.

Seaweeds play a crucial role in marine ecosystems. They provide habitat and food for a variety of marine organisms, contribute to nutrient cycling, and help in carbon sequestration. In addition to their ecological importance, seaweeds have been utilized by humans for centuries. They are harvested for food, medicine, and industrial applications. In agriculture, they are used as fertilizers, biostimulants and soil conditioners.

Seaweed-enriched fertilizers benefits for crops:

• Nutrient-Rich: Seaweeds contain essential macro-nutrients, as well as micro-nutrients such as iron, zinc, and copper, which are vital for plant growth and development. They also provide trace elements like iodine and boron, which are often lacking in traditional fertilizers.
• Promotes plant growth: Seaweeds are rich in oligosaccharides and natural plant growth phytohormones such as cytokinins, auxins, and gibberellins. These substances improve seed germination, enhance root development, and promotes more vigorous plant growth.
• Improved soil health: The organic compounds in seaweeds stimulate the growth of beneficial soil microorganisms, which play a crucial role in nutrient cycling and disease suppression. By improving soil microbial activity, seaweeds help maintain a healthy and fertile soil environment, which is crucial for sustainable agriculture.
• Stress resistance: Seaweed extracts help plants cope with various abiotic stresses, such as drought, salinity, and temperature fluctuations. They enhance the plant’s natural defense mechanisms, making them more resistant to pests and diseases. The antioxidant properties in seaweeds protect plants from potential damage by free radicals.
• Improved soil structure: Regular use of seaweed supplements in fertigation adds organic matter to the soil, improving its structure. Enhanced soil structure leads to better nutrient availability, improved water retention, and stronger root growth. These benefits contribute to stronger plants and increased crop yields.
• Enhanced crop quality: Crops treated with seaweed-enriched fertilizers often exhibit superior quality characteristics. These include better taste, improved color, and extended shelf life. The natural compounds in seaweeds contribute to these enhancements, making the produce more appealing to consumers.
• Sustainable farming: The use of seaweed supports more sustainable farming practices as seaweeds help minimize the environmental impact of agriculture.

Additional benefits and facts:

• Bioactive compounds: Seaweeds contain bioactive compounds such as vitamins, amino acids, and polysaccharides that act as biostimulants, enhancing plant growth and resilience.
• Seaweed production: Seaweeds are sustainably harvested and processed into powders which are incorporated into the fertilizers.
• Environmental impact: Seaweed-enriched fertilizers contribute to carbon sequestration and nutrient cycling, helping to mitigate climate change and improve soil health.
• Historical use: The use of seaweed in agriculture dates back to ancient times, highlighting its long-standing benefits and effectiveness in agriculture

ICL fertilizers enriched with seaweeds

Solinure Polymarine and NovaNPKelp are our pioneering fertilizers enriched with seaweeds. These water-soluble fertilizers are designed specifically for fertigation. In addition to the benefits of seaweeds, they also contain essential micronutrients and magnesium. Being chloride-free, they are suitable for all crops. The different NPK ratios are tailored to meet the specific needs of various growth stages.