Biological products are rapidly transforming the agricultural landscape, promising enhanced soil nutrient supply, improved fertilizer efficiency, and mitigation of plant stress. Despite a plethora of options and formulations, confusion remains about their optimal use on farms. Farmers like Dale Downey in Indiana and Richard Fordyce in Missouri are exploring these products to combat high input costs and environmental challenges. Market research indicates that biologicals are expected to outpace conventional chemicals, with a compound annual growth rate of 14% through 2029. These products offer solutions for sustainable farming practices while addressing climate change and abiotic stressors.

Exploring the Potential of Biologicals in Sustainable Farming

The surge in interest around biological products stems from their potential to enhance crop yields and promote environmental sustainability. High input costs in recent years have driven farmers to seek alternatives such as biofertilizers, which promise lower expenses without compromising yield or soil health. Biostimulants can boost nutrition, mitigate stress, and aid faster recovery after adverse events. Farmers are increasingly drawn to these innovative solutions to optimize resources, minimize environmental impact, and ensure long-term farm viability. Clayton Nevins at Pivot Bio highlights the shift towards resilient and sustainable agricultural practices, emphasizing the need for better solutions in resource management.

Biological products offer a range of benefits, including nitrogen fixation, phosphorus solubilization, and microbial support. Proven 40 by Pivot Bio, for instance, contains N-fixing bacteria that convert atmospheric nitrogen into plant-usable forms, potentially replacing up to 40 pounds of synthetic nitrogen. Corteva’s Utrisha N and Utrisha P introduce N-fixing bacteria and phosphorus-enhancing microbes, respectively. Mosaic Biosciences offers BioPath and Powercoat, both containing Bacillus strains, applied differently based on fertilizer type. These products not only improve nutrient availability but also contribute to more efficient and environmentally friendly farming practices.

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Biological Products in Crop Production

Research on biological products is mixed, with some studies showing significant yield improvements while others report no statistical benefit. Conner Sible's research at the University of Illinois suggests that biologicals can enhance corn yields when nitrogen rates are limited. However, reducing nitrogen rates generally lowers yield potential. Les Anderson’s on-farm trials with Proven 40 demonstrated visible differences in plant health and yield advantages under heavy rain conditions, highlighting the product’s effectiveness in challenging environments. Anderson emphasizes the importance of proper setup and replication in on-farm research to gather reliable data.

North Dakota State University’s multi-state study on asymbiotic N-fixing products in various crops found minimal yield benefits across most trial sites. Dave Franzen notes that out of 51 sites, only two showed a yield advantage, falling short of advertised claims. Similarly, Science for Success’s collaborative effort evaluating biological seed treatments in soybeans across 17 states revealed no significant yield differences overall. However, there was a higher probability of positive responses in Southern states. Industry leaders like Pivot Bio and Corteva argue that their extensive field trials support yield parity with reduced synthetic nitrogen rates, underscoring the need for comprehensive, multi-year data to assess the true potential of these products.