Haifa Group has conducted a study demonstrating that a combination specialties can make cultivated perennial plants stronger and more resilient to adverse conditions and environmental stresses. This discovery offers a more sustainable alternative to the traditional methods of cultivation.
Study Details
In the trial conducted with Elsanta strawberry cuttings, three specific HaifaStim specialties were used: HaifaStim VIM for improved root activity; HaifaStim KIR, a micronutrient fertilizer formulated with adjuvants containing Silica and Chitin; and HaifaStim Booster, a unique formulation based on free amino acids and peptides complexed with secondary and micronutrients to reduce abiotic stress.
Treatment Procedure
In July 2022, the cuttings were planted and subsequently treated with HaifaStim VIM (3 l/ha) one week later. Weekly treatments with HaifaStim KIR (3 kg/ha) and HaifaStim Booster (3 kg/ha) were applied until one week before the harvest date. During this period, both 50% and 100% of other treatments were omitted and compared to a control group. The mortality and production were monitored in the 2023-2024 growth cycle.
Results
The treatment with HaifaStim resulted in better root development and growth advantage in the tray field. In the autumn of 2023, visually more healthy, white roots were present. Although not all treated plants showed the same degree of improvement, the overall enhancement was clearly noticeable. In the 2024 growth cycle, these visual differences were no longer apparent, as the last treatment had taken place at the end of 2022.
Effectiveness of Haifa Biostimulants
The study showed that healthier and more resilient plants can be grown reducing significantly the inputs when Haifa biostimulants are applied. While other trials exhibited a significant reduction in the mortality rate when the HaifaStim protocol was applied. This result was consistent in both the autumn and the subsequent growth cycle. Moreover, there were no differences in production and sorting, further confirming the effectiveness and reliability of Haifa biostimulants.
Inge Daneels, Managing Director Haifa NWE: “We are committed to pioneering sustainable agricultural solutions. Our recent study marks a breakthrough in crop nutrition, demonstrating that our innovative biostimulants can effectively reduce or even eliminate the need of additional and traditional treatments in perennial crops. This advancement not only promotes healthier plant growth but also underscores our dedication to environmental stewardship. By harnessing the power of HaifaStim VIM, KIR, and Booster, we are providing growers with a reliable, eco-friendly alternative that enhances crop resilience and sustainability.”
