Field trials in red sand citrus orchards in Australia have shown that the use of biostimulants can accelerate orchard establishment while reducing irrigation requirements. Conducted over 12 months from January 2024, the trials evaluated the effects of two biostimulants on nutrient uptake, plant growth, and soil moisture retention.
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A soil-applied biostimulant was applied monthly at a rate of 1 litre per hectare through fertigation. It was designed to activate beneficial soil microbes, improve soil structure, enhance nutrient uptake, and promote healthy root growth for faster orchard establishment.
A foliar biostimulant was applied with cover sprays at a rate of 0.5 litres per hectare. It was formulated to support foliar health, stimulate the plant's immune response, and increase photosynthetic efficiency.
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Results showed faster establishment, with larger and more uniform trees, improved soil wetting, and better lateral water movement. At 15 months, trunk cross-sectional area increased by 5% and canopy width by 12%. Soil structure improvements were visible within 10 months, and soil moisture levels were consistently higher in treated areas.
Soil sensors recorded increased moisture across all measured depths: 25% untreated versus 35% treated at 20 cm (a 41% increase); 20% untreated versus 40% treated at 41 cm (a 97% increase); and 34% untreated versus 56% treated at 66 cm (a 63% increase).
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Based on these readings, the irrigation management system indicated that water application could be reduced by one-third in treated blocks while maintaining steady soil moisture between irrigation cycles.
For more information:
Jacque Knight
BioStart
Tel: +64 21 488822
Email: [email protected]
www.biostart.co.nz
