What Are Biologicals?
Farming is always changing, and one of the biggest improvements in recent years is the use of biologicals. These natural products help farmers improve soil health, grow stronger crops, and reduce the need for synthetic chemicals. Biologicals work alongside traditional farming methods to create healthier and more productive fields. But what exactly are they, and how can they benefit your farm? Let’s break it down in simple terms.
The Four Types of Biologicals
Biologicals come in different forms, and we can group them into four easy-to-understand categories:
1. Never Alive
These biologicals come from nature but were never living things. Minerals, for example, provide essential nutrients like calcium and magnesium to help plants grow. Some mineral-based biologicals also improve soil structure and water retention, making them valuable for farming.
2. Was Alive
These biologicals come from materials that were once living, like compost or plant extracts. They help break down organic matter in the soil, making nutrients more available for crops. This natural process improves soil fertility and overall plant health.
3. Came From a Living Thing
These biologicals are made from something that was once alive but is no longer active. For example, some bacteria or fungi produce helpful compounds that protect plants from diseases. Some microbial extracts also act as natural fertilizers, encouraging stronger roots and plant growth.
4. Is Alive
These biologicals contain living organisms, like beneficial bacteria, fungi, and other microbes. They help balance the soil, improve nutrient absorption, and protect crops from pests. Many farmers use microbial inoculants to grow healthier crops with fewer chemicals.
Why Are Biologicals Important?
For many years, farmers have used chemical fertilizers and pesticides to grow more food. While these tools are helpful, using too many can harm soil health and the environment. Biologicals offer a more balanced approach to farming. Here’s why they matter:
- Improve Soil Health – Helpful microbes improve soil structure, making it easier for plants to absorb nutrients and water.
- Reduce Chemical Use – Biologicals let farmers use fewer synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, leading to healthier crops and a safer environment.
- Increase Plant Strength – Biologicals help crops resist drought, extreme temperatures, and pests.
- Support Sustainable Farming – By working with nature, biologicals help maintain soil fertility and long-term farm productivity.
How Farmers Use Biologicals
Farmers use biologicals in different ways, depending on their needs:
- Soil Application – Adding biologicals to the soil before planting helps beneficial microbes grow and improve nutrient availability.
- Seed Treatment – Some biologicals are applied directly to seeds to protect young plants from disease and promote early growth.
- Foliar Sprays – Farmers spray biologicals onto plant leaves, allowing them to absorb beneficial compounds.
- Compost & Organic Matter – Adding compost or biological amendments increases organic content and soil microbes.
The Future of Farming
The agricultural industry is quickly adopting biologicals as part of a more sustainable approach to growing crops. As research continues, scientists are discovering new ways to use microbes, plant extracts, and organic compounds to improve plant health and soil quality. Farmers who use biologicals today are not only improving their current harvests but also protecting their land for the future.
At Kaup, we provide farmers with the best solutions to improve their operations. Whether you’re new to biologicals or looking to enhance your current methods, we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn how biologicals can benefit your farm and keep your crops thriving for years to come!