The revolution of foliar-applied microorganisms: innovation for sustainable farming

The current challenge is not only to increase yield, but to do so in a sustainable manner, respecting natural resources and soil health. In this context, microorganisms emerge as essential allies, especially in their foliar application on crops such as winter cereal. This practice is proving to have positive effects on both plants and the agricultural ecosystem in general.

What are foliar-applied microorganisms and how do they work?

Foliar-applied microorganisms, such as plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), are beneficial organisms that interact directly with plants and soil. When sprayed on leaves, these microorganisms:

• Act as biostimulants: they improve nutrient uptake and enhance photosynthetic activity, which translates into greater plant vigor.

• Strengthen resistance: they help plants adapt to adverse conditions such as low temperatures or prolonged droughts.

• Optimization of fertilizer use: they increase the efficiency of nutrients applied to the soil, reducing losses and improving their use.

Effects on plant physiology 

One of the most notable contributions of foliar microorganisms is their influence on plant physiology. These organisms produce substances such as phytohormones (auxins, cytokinins and gibberellic acid), which stimulate key processes such as:

• Cell division and elongation: promoting the growth of roots and secondary shoots (tillers).

• Production of siderophores and enzymes: they improve the availability of essential nutrients such as iron and phosphates, optimizing plant and soil health.

Soil benefits: beyond foliar application

Although the initial application is on the leaves, the benefits extend to the soil through two mechanisms:

1. Direct supply: during foliar application, part of the microorganisms reaches the soil, enriching its microbial community.
2. Indirect supply: microorganisms stimulate the production of compounds such as sugars and amino acids in the plant. These compounds, exuded by the roots, feed the soil microorganisms, improving its structure, fertility and capacity to retain water and nutrients.

Plant protection and health

In addition to their role as biostimulants, foliar microorganisms act as natural defenders against diseases. They work as:

• Pathogen antagonists: they create a biological barrier limiting the proliferation of diseases.

• Inducers of systemic resistance: they prepare plants to face future threats, strengthening their natural defense mechanisms.

A practice with sustainable impact

Foliar application of microorganisms is an innovation with multiple benefits. From increasing the efficiency of agricultural inputs and improving plant physiology, to enriching soil health and protecting crops against diseases, this technique is a promising tool for the future of farming.

Not only does it help maximize yield in a sustainable way, but it reinforces our commitment to more resilient and environmentally friendly farming systems. A revolution that starts at the microscopic level but has a deep impact on the development of a more balanced and productive agriculture.