BioFlora® was founded in 1972 with a goal to conceptualize, develop, manufacture, market, and deliver a proprietary product line to the agricultural community. Through our innovative products and programs, we provide solutions to our customers in both domestic and international markets. Today, we have over 30 unique proprietary products that benefit growers, retailers, and consumers. Our organic and sustainable agricultural programs maximize the efficacy and efficiency of traditional agricultural inputs, while being mindful of their environmental impact.
Leaf Lettuce Case Study
BioFlora® began a trial on Tango Green and Lola Rose leaf lettuce in Salinas, California. The purpose of this trial was to test whether supplementing a conventional fertilizer program with BioFlora® products would improve germination rate, weight and quality, reduce soil crusting, and inhibit Sclerotinia sclerotorium. Sclerotinia sclerotorium
is a plant pathogenic fungus that can cause a disease called white mold. Sclerotinia sclerotorium can also be known as: cottony rot, water soft rot, stem rot, drop, crow rot and blossom blight. A key characteristic of this pathogen is its ability to produce black resting structures known as “sclerotia” and white fuzzy growths of mycelium on the plant it infects. This pathogen can occur on many continents and has a wide host range of plants it will infect. When incidence of Sclerotinia sclerotorium is noticed, losses can be severe and quick action should be taken.
In this trial, the control field used a conventional fertilizer program consisting of: phosphoric acid to reduce crusting, urea, and 10-34-0.
In the BioFlora® treated acres, we utilized signature our products: Humega®, Fulmega™ 1% Mg, and BioFlora Seaweed Creme®.
Our Results
Increase Germination Rate:
The control field had a germination rate of 94%, the BioFlora® treated field had a germination rate of 98%.
The cost was a reduction of over 40%.
Improve Weight and Quality:
The weight and difference in quality was evidenced by an increase in weight of 18.85% on the BioFlora® treated crops.
This resulted in an average of an additional $1,000 income per acre back to the grower.
Reduce Soil Crusting:
Soil biological analysis showed significant increases in all six categories of beneficial microbes in the treated BioFlora® field. Leading to reduced soil crusting and improved soil structure.
Inhibit Plant Pathogen:
There were no indications, in spite of heavy rains, of Sclerotinia sclerotorium on the roots in the BioFlora® field.
This also resulted in the BioFlora® plants having larger and more developed root systems for greater nutrient uptake and stability.
Control field, head of leaf lettuce with high indications of Sclerotinia sclerotorium
BioFlora® treated, head of leaf lettuce with no indications of disease.