Biosolutions: The Good, the Bad and the Complicated

In this episode we are talking to Don Pendergrast, technical manager for non-combinable crops at Agrii.

Today we going to ask some key questions on biosolutions, what are the benefits and are there any disadvantages.

What are BioSolutions, and why are they important for UK growers?

BioSolutions are a diverse range of products derived from biological sources rather than synthetic chemicals. According to Don Pendergrast, Agrii's technical manager for non-combined crops, BioSolutions broadly fall into two categories:

• BioStimulants: These enhance the plant's metabolic processes, encouraging growth or development without adding nutrition, unlike traditional fertilisers.
• BioControls: These act as biological pesticides, covering herbicides, fungicides, and insecticides, often with additional subcategories such as physical insecticides.

BioSolutions are gaining importance as the availability of synthetic chemical pesticides decreases due to regulatory pressures. They offer a sustainable way to manage pests, diseases, and plant health while aligning with environmental goals.

How do BioSolutions help mitigate the "thinning pipeline" of synthetic chemistry?

The term "thinning pipeline" refers to the decline in available synthetic pesticides due to stricter regulations and environmental scrutiny. BioSolutions offer an alternative by filling gaps in pest and disease management.

Pendergrast highlights that while some BioSolutions are still emerging, others are already proving their efficacy. For instance, bio fungicides are showing promise against diseases like powdery mildew, and certain yeast-based products are effectively reducing issues like botrytis in fruit crops.

What are the benefits of BioSolutions for UK farmers and agronomists?

BioSolutions can:

• Support sustainability: By reducing reliance on synthetic pesticides, BioSolutions help farmers meet environmental objectives.
• Minimise residues: Particularly relevant for fresh produce, these products help reduce pesticide residues on crops, enhancing food safety.
• Improve crop resilience: BioSolutions like endophytes enhance nitrogen use efficiency and drought tolerance.
  
  

What challenges do BioSolutions present?

While BioSolutions hold great promise, they come with challenges:

• Complexity: They often require precise application and integration into existing farm practices.
• Variable performance: Products that perform well in other regions may not work as effectively in UK conditions. Rigorous testing is essential to identify suitable solutions.
• Limited efficacy: Some BioSolutions, such as physical insecticides, may not match the effectiveness of conventional pesticides but can complement them in integrated pest management strategies.
  
  

What success stories exist for BioSolutions?

There have been notable successes with BioSolutions:

• Bio fungicides: These are proving effective against diseases like powdery mildew.
• Endophytes: In brassicas, these have shown potential to enhance nitrogen use efficiency, even under reduced nitrogen input.
• Yeast-based solutions: Products like Protector are being used successfully in fruit crops to outcompete pathogens.
  
  

Are BioSolutions safe?

Biostimulants and Biocontrols are subject to regulatory scrutiny. While Biostimulants are regulated under fertiliser guidelines, Biocontrols undergo the same rigorous testing as synthetic pesticides to ensure safety for growers, consumers, and the environment.

How can farmers stay updated on BioSolutions?

Agrii provides regular updates on BioSolutions through:

• Agronomy and veg/fruit team communications: Information is shared directly with agronomists.
• Newsletters: These detail ongoing trials and findings.
• Access to the technical team: The team is available for support via the Agrii website.
  
  
  

What’s next for BioSolutions?

Pendergrast suggests that the future of BioSolutions lies in expanding their use across different crops and refining their application. For example, ongoing research is exploring how solutions used in one crop, like potatoes, might work against similar pathogens in others, such as onions.