The 18 types of rhizobacteria and fungi in SlurryForSoil have been scientifically proven to increase tolerance to different types of stress, encourage plant defences, and boost plant growth.
While plants can gather nutrients themselves, soil-borne microbes – like those in SlurryForSoil – are much more efficient at it. Plants have evolved a way of harnessing their power; they produce a carbon-rich substance, known as ‘exudate’, which they exude from their roots, attracting these beneficial microbes.
In exchange for the sugary exudates the bacteria and fungi offer plants water and nutrients they have scavenged from the soil. Fungi are partially useful for plants as their extensive network of hyphae extend well beyond the reaches of a plant’s root system and act as highways for the transportation of water and nutrients.
When plants can access what they need, they are better able to withstand stress. For example, plants that can access water more quickly will be more resistant to heat and drought.
The microbes in SlurryForSoil have been selected not only for their abilities to scavenge and transport nutrients in soils, but their abilities to perform in the inhospitable conditions of a slurry store. Here, they grow and multiply, breaking down the slurry as they source the nutrients for their life processes.
They outcompete the natural anaerobic microbes found in slurry, which would otherwise rot the slurry, resulting in a composition that can be detrimental to plant growth when applied in high quantities. Instead, the microbes in SlurryForSoil turn slurry into a highly effective ‘bioactive fertiliser’. And when the inoculated slurry is applied to soils, they continue their work – helping plants to access and use nutrients from the slurry more effectively.
Additionally, the enzymes produced by the bacteria and fungi are proven to play a central role in regulating stress response, including modulation of root elongation, and boosting plant defence responses known as ‘induced systemic resistance’.
SlurryForSoil supports soil health, and in turn, plant growth. The exudates and other excretions created by the bacteria and fungi help to maintain the physical structure of soil and the balance of air, water, light and nutrients a plant needs to grow.
Not only does this help water retention, it aids infiltration – helps plants withstand wetter, as well as drier conditions.
Scientific research shows the microorganisms present have tremendous capacity to produce compounds which are useful for the soil fertility and growth of plants, and to promote cell division in plant roots and shoots.
A 2021 study by Duchy College found that SlurryForSoil™ increases grass yields (by an average of 17.8% and up to 30%) and benefits soil health. The in-depth study, commissioned by Europe’s leading mozzarella manufacturer, Glanbia Cheese (now Leprino), explored the nutrient value of treated and untreated slurries, as well as the yield and nutritional value of resulting silage. Results showed an increase in the retention of key nutrients as well as magnesium, copper, zinc and calcium. You can find more detail on the results of the study here.
Boosting stress tolerance, growth and yields are not the only benefits of SlurryForSoil. To find out more, check out our other recent blog posts here.