Microorganism-based biostimulants are more than just a short-term solution. In fact, they are a key element in moving towards a more resilient, efficient, and environmentally friendly agriculture. According to the latest industry data, microbial biostimulants accounted for 20% of all agricultural biostimulation products last year. This percentage is expected to continue growing in the coming years, thanks to their undeniable role in fostering more sustainable farming practices compared to those developed so far.
What differentiates microbial biostimulants from non-microbial ones?
The main difference between microbial and non-microbial biostimulants lies in the nature of their active components and their mechanisms of action.
Microorganism-based biostimulants are primarily composed of beneficial microscopic living beings, such as bacteria, fungi, or their derivatives (metabolites, enzymes, etc.).
What sets them apart is how they work: they colonize the rhizosphere or the interior of plants and exert beneficial effects through various interactions. Depending on factors such as environmental conditions and competition with other microorganisms, their persistence and activity can vary. In other words, biostimulants formulated with microorganisms do not act directly on the plant but instead establish complex interactions with it and its environment, becoming true partners and allies.
For this very reason, the European Union is currently working on expanding the list of microorganisms authorized for biostimulant formulations, using a well-defined technical methodology that allows for the inclusion of new microbial strains under Category CMC 7 of Regulation (EU) 2019/1009. At MAFA, we consider this initiative more than necessary, as it enables farmers to access sustainable, effective, and competitive products based above all on scientific rigor, safety, and innovation.
What are microorganism-based biostimulants?
Microbial biostimulants are products that contain live microorganisms or their derivatives (such as metabolites or enzymes) that, when applied to plants, soil, or the rhizosphere, contribute to improved plant growth through various interactions.
Why are they being used more and more?
Because their effects are significant and, most importantly, long-lasting for crops. Enhancing the plant’s metabolic efficiency, stimulating root development, facilitating nutrient uptake and translocation, and promoting the presence of complementary microorganisms in the soil are just some of the advantages of using this type of biostimulant.
Microorganisms are capable of triggering hormonal changes, modifying the microbiome and its activity, improving soil fertility, and enhancing nutrient absorption.
All of this positively impacts plant physiology, growth, dry weight, yield, and ultimately, the plant’s ability to withstand biotic and abiotic stress—something we frequently emphasize in our posts.
In addition, there is a wide variety of microorganisms available, which increases the potential to address very diverse challenges.
Bacteria, for example, can fix atmospheric nitrogen and make it available to plants, or solubilize phosphorus, an essential nutrient for growth. Fungi such as mycorrhizal fungi establish symbiosis with plant roots, improving water and nutrient absorption. Let’s look at some examples of microorganisms.
Nitrogen-Fixing Bacteria help plants fix nitrogen, a fundamental element in biological processes
Examples:
Azotobacter spp., Azospirillum spp., Rhizobium spp
Phosphate-Solubilizing Bacteria make phosphorus—a key nutrient for plant development—more accessible.
Examples:
Bacillus spp., Pseudomonas spp.
Phytohormone-Producing Bacteria, such as Azospirillum spp., Bacillus spp., and Pseudomonas spp.
They synthesize plant hormones like auxins, gibberellins, and cytokinins, which regulate plant growth and development.
PGPR (Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria) employ multiple mechanisms.
In addition to nitrogen fixation, phosphorus solubilization, and phytohormone production, PGPR can produce siderophores—compounds that enhance iron availability for plants while inhibiting pathogenic microorganisms.
Mycorrhizal fungi colonize plant roots, increasing the root surface area and thereby improving the absorption of nutrients and water.
Other fungi, such as certain strains of Trichoderma, stimulate plant development and increase productivity.
However, the effectiveness of these microorganisms depends on many factors, including crop type, soil and plant conditions, as well as the timing and method of application.
That’s why proper product knowledge is essential
Remember that at MAFA, we are here to advise you in finding the best solution for your crops. 👩🏼💻🙋🏼♂️
