From Chemicals to Biologicals: The Future of Crop Management in Arable Farming

Why the Shift from Chemicals to Biologicals Matters

As agriculture faces mounting pressure to reduce synthetic inputs, many farmers are asking a crucial question: Can biologicals replace or supplement agrochemicals effectively? The short answer is yes—especially when it comes to improving soil health, boosting plant resilience, and supporting sustainable crop production.

This evolution isn’t just for organic farms. It’s relevant to conventional growers, horticulturalists, and even gardeners looking to future-proof their crops.

What Are Biologicals in Crop Management?

Biologicals are natural inputs that help plants grow and stay healthy without relying on traditional chemical pesticides or fertilizers. They include:

• Biostimulants like seaweed extracts
• Beneficial microbes (bacteria and fungi)
• Mycorrhizal fungi for enhanced root systems
• Natural biofungicides like chitosan
• Amino acids for root and shoot stimulation

These products work with the plant’s biology—boosting nutrient uptake, improving stress tolerance, and enhancing disease resistance.

When to Use Biologicals: Timing Is Everything

According to the podcast, early spring is an ideal time for biostimulants. UK light levels may be strong, but low soil temperatures can stunt crop development. That’s where early applications of seaweed extract or beneficial bacteria come in.

Key takeaways:

• Seaweed Extract: Apply 3L/ha early in growth stages. Look for cold-processed types to preserve beneficial compounds.
• Bacteria: Use products like OMEX Biomex Starter or those from Legume Technology. Apply directly from manufacturers to avoid shelf-life issues.

Mycorrhizae: The Hidden Ally in Your Soil

Want long-term root health? Mycorrhizal fungi form symbiotic relationships with plant roots, expanding their access to water and nutrients.

💡 Pro tip: Apply mycorrhizae as a seed coating using chitosan for adhesion and added biofungicidal benefits.

Best for: Perennial crops, but also useful in cereals when coated effectively.

Fighting Fungal Pathogens—Biologically

If disease resistance is your goal, here’s a 3-part biological defense system:

1. Chitosan – Activates plant defenses and binds spores to leaves. Apply at 2L/ha for about £6.60 per hectare.
2. Potassium Silicate – Strengthens cell walls and reduces stress. Use 1.5L/ha.
3. Salicylic Acid – Enhances resistance through systemic acquired resistance (SAR).

Together, they cost around £13 per hectare, offering affordable protection from rusts and mildews.

Bio-Options for Weed and Root Management

• Blackgrass Pathogen Spores – An innovative biological being trialed at just £6/ha. Not a herbicide, but a helpful suppressor.
• Phosphites & Humates – Encourage strong rooting, especially in stressed soils.
• Amino Acids – Especially fungal-derived forms rich in glutamic acid, great for early growth.

Avoid applying foliar fertilizers during peak heat, and keep an eye on calcium deficiencies that often arise under water stress.

Regenerative Farming and Biological Inputs

Biologicals aren’t just about replacing chemicals—they align with regenerative agriculture goals like improving soil health, increasing biodiversity, and reducing input reliance. Consider pairing them with:

• Liquid gypsum for better soil aeration
• Magnesium, potassium, and tailored micronutrients (avoid turf-specific blends)
• Guano, if you can source it—though the supply chain is… unconventional.

Final Thoughts: Pick and Mix, Don’t Overload

Biologicals are not a one-size-fits-all solution. The key is flexibility. Mix and match what fits your soil type, crop, and budget. And always check product quality—some bacterial and amino acid blends are far more effective than others.

Article by Dr Russell Sharp

Explore More:

• Want to trial biologicals on your own farm? Reach out for advice you can call or even fill out the form on the contact page https://eutrema.co.uk/contact/
• Curious about integrating these tools into a regenerative system? Listen to more Cereal Killers podcast episodes for real-world insights. Or check out of Hydroponics Daily podcast for a deeper dive into individual subjects.

Cereal Killers Podcast: https://t.co/eSEbBkTVHl

Hydroponics Daily Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/207T7p7fw9sPjINfSjVXW2