PDFSummary
A comprehensive overview of biostimulants' role in horticulture, covering types, benefits, challenges, and future directions.
Biostimulants are emerging as a significant component in sustainable agriculture, particularly in integrated pest management (IPM). These substances, derived from various organic and inorganic sources, enhance plant growth, health, and yield by stimulating natural processes rather than providing direct nutritional value or acting as pesticides. This summary delves into the types of biostimulants, their benefits, challenges, and risks, and provides guidance on where to go next for further information.
Types and Examples
Biostimulants include microorganisms, microbial derivatives, and materials of mineral, marine, or botanical origin. They can stimulate plant physiological responses, improve nutrient or water uptake, and impart tolerance to stressors. Examples include arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), entomopathogenic fungi, plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), protein hydrolysates, humic substances, algal and botanical extracts, silicates, and phosphites.
Benefits
Biostimulants offer numerous advantages:
    •Enhance crop growth, health, and yield
    •Improve soil health
    •Induce natural resistance in plants
    •Suppress diseases and arthropod pests
    •Impart tolerance to abiotic stresses
    •Promote multitrophic interactions
    •Contribute to sustainable agriculture by reducing the need for synthetic inputs
Challenges and Risks
Despite their potential, biostimulants face challenges such as:
    •Misconceptions about their efficacy
    •Higher costs compared to synthetic inputs
    •Lack of extensive applied research data
    •Potential negative impacts if not used appropriately
Where to go next
For further information, readers can explore resources such as the eJournal of Entomology and Biologicals, Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, and conferences by the Entomological Society of America. Collaboration among researchers, manufacturers, and growers is essential for the successful integration of biostimulants into modern agriculture.