Nutri-Grow - create optimal soil conditions for maximum growth.
Nutri-Grow - create optimal soil conditions for maximum growth.
Organics Atlantic
xCape Seaweed | Viridis Marine
Organic Bio Agriculture Solutions.
South African Ecklonia Maxima Kelp.
Agriculture challenges and organic solutions.
The role of South African Ecklonia Maxima kelp in biological farming.
Ecklonia Maxima solutions for industrial buyers.
Nutri-Earth - create optimal soil conditions for maximum growth - water retention.
Agriculture challenges and organic solutions.
Increased consumer expectations for high-quality bio-safe products, extended shelf life, higher levels of organic inputs and economical prices, is clearly voiced through the retail trade.
Meeting the expectations of Organic food lovers, Vegans, Vegetarians, Kosher and Halal consumers for food and ingredients that exclude animal products, (both as fertilizers and processed foods), create new markets and a competitive advantage for those who embrace organic farming.
Organically farmed Ecklonia Maxima kelp is increasingly viewed as a key ingredient to meet holistic organic agriculture demands to optimise both soil and crop health. There is no other organic compound that contains such a wide range of nutrient-rich resources.
For generations people living close to coastal regions harvested beach cast kelp uprooted naturally from ocean swells and storms. Evidence suggests that this practice dates back to Roman times when they used kelp as a medium to increase crop quality and yield. It was also widely used for medicinal purposes.
Kelp is the only plant on earth that grows from the top down. It does not have a root system that absorbs nutrients. Nutrients are absorbed and processed through the leaves, called fronds. The root (holdfast) is only used to anchor the plant onto rocks and sea floor. The stypes can grow up to 60 cm a day.
These kelp forests are protected by the South African Government. (DAFF.)
A kelp sanctuary at Two Oceans Aquarium illustrates the ecology around the forests.
The plant stems are called stypes.
These kelp forests are protected by the South African Government. (DAFF.)
Scientific research concluded that the mystical functioning of kelp and the tremendous impact it has on land-based crops is due to the unique nutrient balance of the many minerals, vitamins, amino acids, trace elements, plant protein, polysaccharides and natural growth hormones are contained in abundance within organic kelp.
It is not only fully recognized as a superfood and the dietary preference of many for generations, but it is also regarded as a powerful pharmaceutical and nutraceutical product.
True 100 % organic farming expects organic compounds to be sourced from matter that is organic from inception. Kelp is the only sustainable alternative available that can be used at scale. Ecklonia Maxima, a native South African kelp species, is regarded as the superior kelp species for agriculture use.
The role of South African Ecklonia Maxima in biological farming.
Abiotic stress out of the farmers’ control, greatly reduces both quality and crop yield. Unmanageable and prolonged plant stress will eventually result in plant death. The increase in land temperatures we are currently experiencing is expected to escalate. The importance of optimal soil conditions is becoming imperative to sustainable farming.
Ecklonia Maxima kelp-based products frequently arise as the best available biological solution farmers can use to decrease the impact of abiotic stress on crops, resulting in an increase in both quality and crop yield.
Many explanations and reasons are offered for the climate change that we are currently experiencing. Natural cycles of changing temperatures have been occurring for hundreds and thousands of years. Human practices also have an impact on climate change as well. Irrespective of the cause the fact remains that the impact is currently noticeable as abiotic stress on plants is increasing. The rate of change is also a concern for scientists.
Climate change is increasing land temperatures.
This was a railway track through a productive maize farm in South Africa two years ago. Wind, insufficient water and increased temperatures changed this farm into a desert with sand levels so high that the railway tracks are covered.
An image from space showing the drastically reduced water levels in the Western Cape South Africa during the 2018 drought.
Climate change is increasing land temperatures.
The most frequent abiotic stress factors farmers face and will continue to face are:
- Increased land temperatures.
- Increased wind.
- Decreased water.
- Flooding.
- Prolonged draughts.
- Changing planting seasons.
Global warming has increased between 0.8°C to 1.2°C since pre-industrial levels.
Global warming is likely to reach an increase of 1.5°C
between 2030 and 2052 if it continues at the current rate.
These increases are sufficient to have already adversely affected crop yield and nutrition and will continue to do so in future. Food security and the survival of species is becoming a global concern.
United Nations 2018 report on Global Warming.
Cereal crops account for 75 % of the world's consumption. In South Africa maize alone accounts for 8.8 m tonnes of annual production. This production is consumed by South Africans with the remainder being exported. This is one of the many examples showing the important contribution of large scale crop production is on food security, GDP growth and global trade. A global decrease in the production of cereals is expected due to an increase in abiotic stress with an associated decrease in the food supply.
Past pressure on farmers to increase crop yield in order to maintain a sustainable living in the face of crop losses caused by climate change, rising input costs, reduced market prices as a result of global trade often resulted in over-fertilisation. Over time this practice caused a deterioration in soil quality which reduced crop yield. This problem was addressed with the application of more chemicals fertilisers.
This, in turn, led to a reduction in soil productivity. Increased soil compaction, reduced carbon content, low levels of organic matter, loss of soil structure, poor internal drainage and disturbance in pH levels, to mention are a few examples of the consequences.
Combined with reduced water availability, increase in land temperature, increase in wind and nutrient leaching, the impact of poor soil conditions directly compounded decreased crop yields.
The only remedy to reduce plant stress and increase stress tolerance in spite of adverse circumstances is a purposeful intervention to remediate the soil and increase soil productivity.
Once soil productivity is optimal additional nutrients will further advance crop yield and increase plant stress tolerance.
Meeting the needs of organic agriculture expectations coupled with the importance of biological farming to enhance the soil structure and nutrition whilst reducing water usage again leads to Ecklonia Maxima kelp as the only viable scalable solution to embrace overall sustainable farming.
The versatility of Ecklonia Maxima defines another important attribute - it is extensively and successfully used as an input ingredient in biological soil, organic, and liquid fertiliser blends.
This creates a window of opportunity for agriculture manufacturers to embrace these trends with innovative product development. Not only does it increase competitiveness and provide market relevant products that meet client needs, but it also mitigates the risk of facing a declining market due to competitors seizing the opportunity first.
Equally is the opportunity for farmers who can take active steps to optimise soil productivity and increase both crop yield and health.
Fresh Ecklonia Maxima solutions for industrial buyers.
Ecklonia Maxima can be used in various forms. The most natural and organic form is fresh hand-harvested kelp. If only the fronds are harvested the kelp regenerates within six months. If the stypes only are required, at least 1 metre is left intact together with the holdfast. This enables the plant to regenerate within 24 months.
Ocean harvests refer to fresh kelp being naturally dislodged from the sea floor through ocean swells.
Both of these harvests are suitable for natural liquidised formats and as blends in fertiliser formulations to provide a complete solution. Once dried and powdered, it can be used in dry and wet blends. Although kelp is well known in agriculture, Ulva is also nowadays a consideration for agriculture use.
Due to the high level of auxins and cytokinins in Ecklonia Maxima, these natural growth hormones are also the preferred ingredients for the formulation of plant growth promoters.
We have a wide range of different solutions for industrial buyers ranging from fresh kelp to partially or fully processed kelp fertilisers.
Buyers have a number of different choices:
- Choose the part of the plant that is required: Either fronds, stypes or whole plants can be ordered.
- Choose the harvest method: Fresh hand-harvest or wet nature harvests are available.
- Choose the format: Choose whole plants, minced, liquidised or powder formats.
- Choose the species: Both Ecklonia Maxima kelp and Ulva is extensively used in agriculture and are available.
The products are provided frozen if fresh harvests are required. Fresh harvests are organic produce without any chemical additions. If further processing is required, client formulations are used. Once formulations and chemicals are added as per client specifications, the organic nature of the product may be altered.
Fresh Ecklonia Maxima.
Kelp liquid - blended or pure Ecklonia Maxima.
Minced fresh Ecklonia Maxima.
Water-soluble blended kelp powder.
Nutri-Earth - a superior organic bio- agriculture nutritient solution.
Made from Ecklonia Maxima
Nutri-Earth is a biological organic Ecklonia Maxima soil builder designed to increase the structural, nutrient and moisture of agricultural soil. Simultaneously it provides an exceptional range of bio-ready nutrients ready for plant absorption.
Over-all it increases crop yield and health as a result of maximising the natural growth potential of plants.
On its own or as a blend Nutri-Earth provides a scalable, sustainable and holistic solution.
If it is safe enough to eat, it is safe enough to grow with it...
Harvested from pure unpolluted natural ocean forests off the West Coast of South Africa, Nutri-Earth leverages the mysterious power of Ecklonia Maxima kelp through its incredible ability to form nutrient-rich water reservoirs for land plants - enabling plants to have access to water and nutrients for longer.
This mysterious power, which is not fully understood by scientists, originates from the delicate balance of an extensive range of minerals, vitamins, amino acids, fatty acids, plant protein, natural plant growth hormones, alginate, polysaccharides and organic carbon that is captured in Nutr-Earth.
Our secret is to harvest and process Nutri-Earth kelp in a way that leaves the delicate balance and nutrients untouched, whilst still meeting the demands for commercial viability.
Safe enough to eat. Safe enough to grow with it...
The future is either green or not at all ...
Nutri-Earth plants will show an increase in stress tolerance, decrease in plant stress as well as an increase in crop yield and health. This is as a result of higher water exposure, increased soil productivity and bio-ready nutrient availability.
Increased water retention and moisture levels.
Nutri-Earth kelp chip is dehydrated prior to purchase. Once the dehydrated chip is in contact with water, the kelp will absorb the water and naturally form an alginate based nutrient-rich reservoir around plant roots. This reservoir remains available for water and nutrient uptake long after the water is no longer available. The viscous alginate texture prevents the leaching.
Kelp chip will increase up to 6 times its original size and retain the nutrient reservoir for days after water exposure. Image 2 has been taken 8 hours after submergence in water. Image three shows the smaller, fast release kelp chip alginate kelp mix. Once the water is absorbed by plant roots, the remainder of the kelp forms the basis for a carbon-rich biological compound that is valuable for soil structure remediation.
Higher nutrient availability.
The nutrients within the water reservoir contain the natural growth hormones as well as the other nutrients that are available in the kelp. These are immediately biologically available for uptake. The balance between the natural nutrients as well as the level of NPK contained in kelp will ensure that roots are not damaged. There is also less leaching ensuring that all nutrients remain available to the plant.
Differentiated chip sizes.
As a result of increased stress tolerance, Nutri Earth treated plants will show slower responses to environmental stress. This is not only due to the higher water levels in cell structures but also the nutrients that are immediately bio-available for full absorption. The chip size is a big determinant in the effectiveness of this process.
Nutri-Earth - slow release.
This chip is suitable for large plant species with established root systems that cannot be reached without disturbing the roots. Fruit trees and shrubs, such as roses are examples of plants that need Nutri-Earth slow release.
Nutri-Earth - medium release.
This chip is suitable for smaller established plants as well as new seedling plantations. It requires less water for full absorption and efficiently releases the nutrient alginate reservoir to support growth and reduce transplant shock.
Nutri-Earth - fast release.
This chip is suitable for all crops, starting from seed germination to mature crops and for all species of varying sizes. It is also suitable as input into dry fertiliser blends. For a varied alginate release result, it can easily be mixed with the medium or slow release chip.
Reduces plant stress.
As a result of increased stress tolerance, Nutri Earth treated plants will show slower responses to environmental stress. This is due to the higher water levels in cell structures as a result of more water exposure as well as the broad range of nutrients available.
Alleviate soil compaction.
The kelp enables small holes in the soil allowing air, water and nutrients to penetrate the roots. Roots are stronger and can take up more nutrients, realising the plant's full growth potential.
Reduces soil erosion.
Due to increased soil texture, structure and organic content, soil erosion will be reduced.
Organic carbon.
Organic matter contributes to nutrient retention, soil structure, moisture retention and availability, degradation of pollutants, carbon sequestration and soil resilience. Independent laboratory results show that Nutri-Earth has more than 40 % organic carbon content.
100 % organic plant matter.
Nutri-Earth contains 100 % natural organic plant matter. It does not contain animal manure nor animal and fish parts such as minced bone or fish particles. It is Organic, Halal, Vegan and Vegetarian. Nutri-Earth has an extended shelf life without having to add preservatives. No synthetic or chemical fertilisers have been added.
pH Balanced and restoration of soil pH.
Laboratory tests on Nutri-Earth confirmed a healthy pH level of 7.1 . If the pH level has been disturbed, Nutri-Earth may play a valuable role in restoring the pH balance. It is often used as an alkaline stabiliser.
Nutri-Earth looks after both the plant and the soil. All the nutrients are formulated by nature, and is 100 % organic, plant material. Because it is plant-based, it is also immediately bio-available for nutrient up-take.
It is different than other organic and biological solutions as it does not contain any plant or animal waste, but is a complete plant solution, formulated by nature and harvested by the ocean.
The nutrients below have scientifically and independently been verified to be contained in Nutri-Earth. Refer to our mineral analysis above for verification, or contact us for a copy of the lab results.
BORON (B)
Boron is required for cell division and tissue development of shoots and roots. It also aids seed production and fruit formation. Because it is necessary for healthy cell structures, baron deficient plants break down prematurely resulting in brown flecks, necrotic spots and corky areas in fruit and tubers.
CALCIUM (Ca)
Calcium is responsible for new cell formation and therefore is required for roots, stems and leaves to grow. Plants also use it to respond to pests and some diseases. Because it holds the cell walls of plants together, calcium deficiency will show abnormal cell wall formation in roots, shoot tips and new leaves.
CHLORINE (Cl)
Chlorine is important for plant photosynthesis as it is involved in the opening and closing of the pores in leaves that enable plants to take in and release carbon dioxide, oxygen and other gases. It also ensures leaves firmness. In the case of deficiency, it results in leaf chlorosis and necrosis. In severe cases, it may result in bronzing or wilting of leaves.
The soil in the coastal area generally has sufficient levels of Chlorine although away from coastal areas, Chlorine is often lacking in soil.
IRON (Fe)
Iron is important for the development and function of chlorophyll, enzymes and proteins. It also plays a role in respiration, nitrogen fixation, energy transfer and metabolism. As with other nutrients, plants. Chlorosis on young leaves is a symptom of iron deficiency.
COPPER (Cu)
Copper facilitates respiration and photosynthesis. It is also important for plant metabolism. It It is a component of a variety of enzymes and plant cell walls so it is important for plant strength. Copper also affects the flavour, sugar content and storage life of fruit. Copper deficiency can result in poor growth, delayed flowering and sterility or poor germination. It can also result in chlorosis.
COBALT (Co)
Cobalt should only be available as a trace element in plants. It increases the drought resistance of plants and is, therefore, an important element to increase plant stress. It may also play a role in the production of ethylene. Cobalt deficiency may result in reduced seed germination in dry conditions and reduced plant growth.
MAGNESIUM (Mg)
Magnesium is necessary for photosynthesis. It is also a component of many plant enzymes and aids in their function. Magnesium helps plants move phosphorus to where it is needed and to use iron. A deficiency will cause chlorosis and necrotic spots in older leaves. It will also over-all reduce the plant's root growth resulting in reduced plant mass.
MANGANESE (Mn)
Manganese is used in photosynthesis, synthesis of chlorophyll and nitrogen absorption as well as the synthesis of riboflavin, ascorbic acid and carotene. Deficiencies will result in chlorosis of new leaves, necrotic spots and irregularly shaped leaves.
MOLYBDENUM (Mo)
Molybdenum is important for nitrogen metabolism. It also plays an essential role in the use of phosphorus within plants. Without molybdenum, plants may be able to take up inorganic phosphorus but adequate Molybdenum is required for plants to convert the phosphorous into an organic form that they can use. Molybdenum deficiency stunts plant growth and plants may have an inability to use nitrogen properly. Leaves may show spots of chlorosis between the veins and along the edges. Edges of leaves may turn brown and die. . The pollen of molybdenum deficient plants will usually be less viable than that of healthy plants so grain and fruit production is often reduced.
NITROGEN (N)
Plants cannot survive without nitrogen. It is a major component of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins. Nitrogen is a component of energy-transfer compounds, such as ATP (adenosine triphosphate). ATP allows cells to conserve and use the energy released in metabolism. Nitrogen is a significant component of nucleic acids such as DNA, the genetic material that allows cells (and eventually whole plants) to grow and reproduce. The most obvious symptom of nitrogen deficiency is of older leaves. Nitrogen deficient plants also grow more slowly and are usually stunted. Many plant species will mature earlier than normal if they don't have enough nitrogen and will produce a lower yield (of flowers, fruit, seeds or foliage). Plant yields are also often of reduced quality.
POTASSIUM (K)
Potassium is important for photosynthesis and plant food formation as well as the transportation and storage of plant food. In conjunction with calcium and boron, it is important for the development of plant cell walls. It, therefore, helps plants resist frost and cold damage. It also controls a plant's ability to cope with drought and helps plants combat disease and insect damage. potassium regulates the opening and closing of stomata and therefore regulates CO2 uptake. Potassium triggers activation of enzymes and is essential for the production of Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP), an energy source for many chemical processes taking place in plant issues. A lack of potassium will decrease crop yield and increase propensity towards stress tolerance.
PHOSPHORUS (P)
Phosphorus is necessary for plant respiration and photosynthesis, cell division and plant growth. It is also vital for the production of fruit and seeds and is an important part of proteins, enzymes and DNA. Sufficient Phosperous levels enable early root growth and overall plant growth is better in cold temperatures. It also ensures that plants use water efficiently. It therefore also increases stress tolerance in plants. More flowers and seeds are also produced and fruit and grains mature more quickly. Plants are most likely to suffer from phosphorus deficiency when they are grown in compacted, poorly aerated soil that is low in organic matter. A deficiency will result in dwarfed and stunt growth. Leave tips will appear burnt and other leaves may become spotted with necrotic tissue.
SULPHUR (S)
Sulphur along with calcium and magnesium is one of the three secondary nutrients required by plants for normal, healthy growth. Sulphur is required for the formation of plant protein and certain hormones. It also reduces the sodium content in the soil which is well balanced with the natural sodium content in kelp. A deficiency will result in delayed plant maturity, stunt growth. and chlorosis.
ZINC (Zn)
It is important for the production of plant growth hormones and proteins and is involved in sugar consumption. Good root development, as well as carbohydrate and chlorophyll formation, are also dependent on zinc. It assists plants to be more resilient against biotic and abiotic stressors. Zinc deficiency can result in chlorosis and stunted leaves as well as lowered stress tolerance, especially with exposure to low temperatures.
Transient drought spells during flowering/pollination results in a severe loss of grain yield through Zinc, Magnesium, Baron and Copper deficiency in fast-growing pollen tubes.
Impacts of Mineral Nutrition on Growth of Crop Plants - Ismail Cakma
Nutri-Earth has an exceptional level of organic, bio-available iodine.
Iodine plays an important role in antioxidant metabolism of plant species. It is also essential in humans for thyroid metabolism, development of cognitive abilities and is associated with lower risks of developing certain types of cancer. Various projects are initiated by governments globally to bio-fortify crops in an attempt to increase Iodine supply for the general population. Approximately 1.5bn people worldwide suffer from severe Iodine deficiency.
Over-and-above the extensive range of minerals, the inclusion of organic vitamins, amino acids, natural growth hormones, plant proteien, polycharrides and lipids confirms the superior composition of Nutri-Earth as organic biological fertiliser.
GROWTH HORMONES: Auxin, Indolene-3-Acetic Acid, Cytokinin, Abscisic Acid, Brassinolide, Castasterone, Gibberellins
VITAMINS : Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, Vitamin E, Vitamin K.
Considering the extensive benefits of both Nutri-Earth and the full range of Viridis Enviro organic bio-agriculture solution range, the next consideration is what type of farming operation will benefit the most?
The choice -
organic vs chemical fertilisers.
Whilst organic farming should always be inherently embraced, the reality remains that large scale crop production would require both.
Pressure on farmers to increase crop yield and reduce input costs often leads to the over-use of chemical fertilisers. This can deplete the soil structure and alter the pH level.
Sustainable farming requires productive soil, especially in light of climate change. Once soil productivity is optimal, bio-available nutrients from organic compounds should be leveraged.
Chemical fertilisers then become important to fill the gap, rather than to be the sole source of resource to increase crop yield and health.
The desired out-come for both organic and chemical fertilisers is to increase crop yield and health. However, the pathyway for achieving this out-come is different.
SOIL OR YIELD
ORGANIC NATURAL FERTILISERS
Organic fertilisers are derived directly from plant or animal source.
Only natural sources are organic. Bonemeal, manure, kelp and compost are examples of organic fertilisers that are commonly used.
It contains a range of natural nutrients.
The nutrient release is slower and support plant growth over a longer period of time. Fever applications are required.
Increases soil quality and provides healthy growth environment.
Animal manure may damage root systems.
Initially could be more expensive but requires fewer applications. Over time, once soil amendment is considered, it is cheaper.
INORGANIC CHEMICAL FERTILSERS
Inorganic fertilisers are manufactured from chemicals or synthetic minerals.
Can contain petroleum and gas.. NPK (Nitrogen, Potassium and Prosperous) are examples of chemical fertilisers that are commonly used
It contains single or multiple selected nutrients.
Nutrients are rapidly released and quickly drain away from the soil, requiring frequent applications.
No increase in soil quality. Soil quality can be damaged and pH disturbed.
Incorrect use can damage or kill the plants.
Inexpensive but require frequent applications that add labour costs to input costs Soil amendment will require additional costs over-time.
The fundamental difference is that organic fertilisers' aim to look after the soil as a first-order priority, whereas chemical fertilisers cannot.
Yet, organic fertilisers on its own are not likely to create the required increase in crop yield that is expected for large scale farming operations.
Kelp is the only complete organic fertiliser that does not contain animal or fish particles.
What type of farming operation will find the Viridis Enviro range of organic, bio-agriculture solutions valuable?
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Farmers who need to remediate their soil due to the biological matter being depleted, past over-fertilisation, or need higher levels of water and nutrient retention in their soil.
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Farmers who want to increase a wide range of nutrients in their crops.
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Farmers whose produce is sold to countries with organic farming practices being part of their import criteria.
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Farmers who farm in dry areas and whose plants are exposed to high-stress levels.
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Farmers who embrace organic and biological farming practices.
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Farmers who farm exclusively for Organic, Halal, Vegan and Vegetarian markets.
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Commercial farmers who farm on smaller land surface areas.
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Commercial farmers growing seedlings.
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Green-house farmers, nurseries and gardeners.
What type of fertiliser manufacturer would use our products as input ingredients?
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Manufacturers who want to play a role in biological and organic agriculture.
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Listed manufacturers who need to demonstrate sustainability to directors and shareholders.
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Manufacturers who value product innovation.
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Manufacturers who want to gain a competitive position through advancing holistic nutrient agriculture that exceeds the NPK product provision curve.
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Manufacturers who are prepared to broaden their product ranges to include plant stress management solutions.
