Agronomists interested in finding out more about biostimulants and the effect that they can have on UK crops are being encouraged to Algifol, one of Europe’s leading brands of natural fertilisers.
Marcus Palmer, the UK importer of the seaweed-based biostimulant, wants to establish a network of regional agronomists and receive feedback from them and their clients. He is offering free product for those who want to get involved.
Algifol is manufactured in Germany by NeoMed-Pharma and has been distributed in the UK by Mr Palmer since 2005. In that time, it has been applied to a wide range of crops including combining peas, potatoes, vegetable, sugarbeet, oilseed rape and cereals.
“Last year, we worked with the Processors and Growers Research Organisation and their field trials on Combining Peas proved that the use of Algifol increases yields and reduced foot rot infection,” said Mr Palmer. “We have also worked with several universities and academics who have said Algifol has a positive effect on root establishment, disease resistance and yields.
“Since distributing Algifol in the UK, I have received lots of feedback from customers who are delighted with the results of using it. They say they like it because it is entirely natural, improves yields, reduces the stress caused by droughts, heat and heavy rainfall. It is also cost-effective, with just one litre being enough to spray one hectare.
“Now, though, I’d like to work with agronomists and gain their feedback on the product as we look to broaden our knowledge and develop our proposition. Most big brands have their in-house agronomists, but we’d like to take a different approach and work with independent agronomists.”
Algifol is a concentrated brown algae gathered from the North Atlantic, dried and refined to maximise trace elements, vitamins, enzymes, amino acids, carbohydrates, polyuronides and growth-regulating plant hormones. NeoMed-Pharma recommends four application of one litre Algifol, diluted at a ratio of up to 1:1,000 which can be applied by knapsack or trailed and mounted sprayers.
Mr Palmer wants to work with one agronomist in the South East, South West, East and West Midlands, Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, the North East and North West of England, as well as Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
To take part, simply email [email protected]
