Get Your Microbial Inoculants “And Then Some” This Season

As agricultural biologicals continue to pick up traction in the agricultural world, we might thank the microbial inoculant, Rhizobia, for opening the door. This microorganism has become widely understood and accepted across ag for its ability to fix nitrogen for legume crops like soybeans, cover crops and more.  

This year, farmers are encouraged to take their microbial use one step further and consider biological products that combine microbial inoculants “and then some,”– additional microbial strains that bring even more agronomic benefits. 

This blog covers:  

• What is a Microbial Inoculant?  
• The “And Then Some”: 2 Common Strains Added to Microbial Inoculants  
• Locus AG’s Microbial Inoculant “And Then Some” Products  

Rhizobia: A nitrogen-fixing bacteria, that form a symbiotic relationship with the plant. Rhizobia enter the roots and form nodules, which aids in nitrogen fixation and helps legume crops maximize their yield potential.

What is a Microbial Inoculant?  

Nitrogen-fixing microbial inoculants are used for their ability to fix nitrogen for legume plants. Soybean and other legume plants require such a large amount of nitrogen for growth. Agronomists have uncovered that some species of legumes can create up to 50% to 90% of their required nitrogen through a symbiotic relationship with the bacteria Rhizobium. Thus, farmers have been using microbial inoculants to perform this nitrogen-fixing function for many years.  

For soybeans specifically, Bradyrhizobium is used for optimal nitrogen fixation. In a symbiotic relationship, the bacteria create a structure called a nodule on the roots that converts atmospheric nitrogen to a form that is usable by the plant. In return, the soybean plant provides the bacteria with a home and energy source needed for continued fixation.  

READ MORE: The Importance of Soybean Roots & How They Grow 

The “And Then Some”: 2 Common Strains Added to Microbial Inoculants 

While microbial inoculants are commonly used in the agricultural space, farmers are encouraged to look for products that combine additional beneficial microbial strains and bring even further agronomic benefit.  

Beneficial strains often combined with Rhizobia include:  

• Trichoderma:  Trichoderma is a beneficial fungus. This strain commonly increases nutrient uptake and use. The result is vigorous root growth, development, and crop productivity. 
• Bacillus: Bacillus is a beneficial bacterium. This strain improves nutrient use efficiency, which often results in enhanced plant vigor and crop yield. 

These strains, when combined, offer the following added agronomic benefits:  

1. Expanding Root Growth: Trichoderma stimulates root development, creating a robust and extensive root system for crops. This enhanced root system improves nutrient uptake, providing crops with a solid foundation for growth.
2. Increasing Nutrient Uptake: Bacillus strains play a vital role in nutrient solubilization, making essential minerals more available to plants. This increase in nutrient uptake ensures that crops receive the nourishment they need for optimal development.
3. Enhancing Plant Vigor: The combined effect of Rhizobia, Trichoderma, and Bacillus strains results in enhanced plant vigor. 
4. Boosting Crop Yields: The synergy between these microbial strains translates into increased crop yields. Farmers adopting this comprehensive approach witness not only improved quantity but also enhanced quality in their harvests. 

Locus AG’s Inoculant “And Then Some” Products  

Locus AG’s Rhizolizer® Prime product line combines novel strains of Rhizobia with Trichoderma and Bacillus. But farmers should be aware that not all strains are created equal. Locus AG products contain superior microbial strains that are backed by extensive, third-party, randomized and replicated trials to boost yields and bring superior agronomic benefits.  

Rhizolizer Prime products are available in a dry, hopper box applied formulation for on-farm application, with crop-specific products available for:  

• Alfalfa/Clover 
• Cover Crops 
• Dry Bean 
• Peas/Lentils/Chickpeas 
• Peanuts 
• Soybeans 

READ MORE: Rhizolizer Prime Product Line  

Locus AG biologicals are produced in the USA, available for immediate shipment, and are supplied through many major agricultural distributors and retailers. 

Locus AG biologicals are not just nice-to-haves; they are Simply Vital to farming success. Leave us a message below to get started.