Biofertilisers

Biofertilisers are substances containing living microorganisms which, when applied to seeds, plant surfaces, or soil, colonise the rhizosphere or the interior of the plant and promote growth by increasing the supply or availability of primary nutrients to the host plant. They are a sustainable alternative to synthetic chemical fertilisers, which can have negative environmental impacts.

The primary function of biofertilisers is to improve soil fertility and enhance plant growth through biological processes. Microorganisms commonly used as biofertilisers include bacteria, fungi, and algae. These microbes can fix atmospheric nitrogen, solubilise phosphorus, produce plant growth-promoting hormones, and break down organic matter, making nutrients more accessible to plants.

Different types of biofertilisers exist based on the microorganisms they contain and their mode of action. For example, nitrogen-fixing biofertilisers like Rhizobium help legumes by converting atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia, which plants can absorb. Phosphorus-solubilising bacteria and fungi make insoluble phosphorus compounds available in the soil. Mycorrhizal fungi form symbiotic relationships with plant roots, increasing nutrient and water uptake.

The application of biofertilisers can lead to increased crop yields, improved soil health, and reduced reliance on chemical inputs. They are considered an environmentally friendly approach to agriculture, contributing to sustainable farming practices. Their use is gaining traction as a way to reduce the ecological footprint of food production and promote biodiversity in agricultural ecosystems.