Session: Biostimulants, Bioaugmentation and Soil Biological Health Oral

Division: SSSA Division: Soil Biology and Biochemistry

Title: Biostimulants, Bioaugmentation and Soil Biological Health Oral

Lead Community Sponsor:
Cosponsor: SSSA Division: Soil Fertility and Plant Nutrition
Community Cosponsor:
Format: Oral Topical Session
Keywords: PGPR, botanicals and humates

Session Description: Biostimulants and bioaugmentation are substances or microorganisms applied to plants or soils with the aim to stimulate plant growth and improve soil health. Some examples include humates, mycorrhizae, botanical extracts, plant growth promoting rhizobacteria and beneficial fungi. Many biostimulants improve nutrition and they do so regardless of their inherent nutrient content. They are often marketed as being more sustainable alternatives and/or supplements to conventional agrochemicals. The biostimulant and bioaugmentation markets in the USA are growing rapidly. This session discusses research on biostimulants, their impact on biological soil health and links to plant growth in agronomic and turfgrass systems.